Ok....so this probably proves I'm a nerd and I'm hoping this is new info and not an old topic. Please remember I'm new to the performance truck community so this is all new to me. I did a search on this site and saw no such discussion.
I watched Mythbusters on TV last night and they tested two identical ford trucks. Same driving parameters, same speeds, etc. The tailgate up truck got 30 more miles to a tank of gas than tailgate down. They showed how this was possible with a scale model, fabricated tank, and oatmeal. I guess the vortex the cab creates behind it serves as a cushion to keep any more air from getting caught in the bed or tailgate. With the tailgate down, this vortex does not exist and the air comes down from the cab and produces drag by coming in contact with the bed and lowered tailgate. I thought this was cool and some good info for those who drive their trucks on the highway often.
Jim
I watched Mythbusters on TV last night and they tested two identical ford trucks. Same driving parameters, same speeds, etc. The tailgate up truck got 30 more miles to a tank of gas than tailgate down. They showed how this was possible with a scale model, fabricated tank, and oatmeal. I guess the vortex the cab creates behind it serves as a cushion to keep any more air from getting caught in the bed or tailgate. With the tailgate down, this vortex does not exist and the air comes down from the cab and produces drag by coming in contact with the bed and lowered tailgate. I thought this was cool and some good info for those who drive their trucks on the highway often.
Jim
