Tailgate spoiler adds MPG.........really!

[bhw]

OK.........seriously......I've been getting at least 1-2 mpg better average per tank on my weekend beach trips. The trick....a 9'4" surfboard hanging over the tailgate! I swear it does something! About 2ft of it hang over the top, and it's strapped to the tailgate.....at an angle coming up from the front of the bed. It must have some positive affect on aerodynamics. Anybody got a wind tunnel?

[tlcatundra]

You are probably right! On Trucks TV this weekend they showcased the winner for most innovative accessory at SEMA. It was a remote controlled tailgate dropper that could be used to open it completely or be set to open at certain speed to 'spoiler position'. Here's a link DropTail

[Genthar]

I'd guess you're getting a similar effect to a Tonneau cover, or at least partially. Fill/cover the bed, and you smooth out the airflow even more than just leaving the gate up. Gate down and you get a nice big vacuum behind the cab which will create a lot of turbulence and reduce your mileage.

[bhw]

That's why I leave the gate up, and prop the board over the gate. It's like a 23" wide spoiler! Can't argue with the numbers though........my mileage goes up with a surfboard in the back.

[DesertDawg69]

It was a remote controlled tailgate dropper that could be used to open it completely or be set to open at certain speed to 'spoiler position'.

tlcatundra,

Did you calculate how long it would take to recover the $499(+s&h) in increased mpg?

How come no one has mentioned the added rear wheel traction due to the massive increase in downforce? Just a thought....

[kosmocat]

What are you smoking to the get the added 1-2 mpg??

Maybe you did your math wrong after the long weekend
surfing and etc..

ha ha!!

[taipan]

Think---maybe, a 4x8 sheet of plywood, down in front, up at the gate, may have the same effect? Interesting! I just may try it! Will post results (if possitive).

taipan

[rn039]

WOW! Maybe I will get a nice wing for the back of my tonneau cover, get corvette tails for my rear bumper, get some mudguards with Yosemite Sam or Chrome naked ladies, some running boards, and some daytons that stick out about 2 inches.

[tlcatundra]

Recover the $499??? If I spend that much money for a tailgate dropper its because I already bought headers and a supercharger and had leftover lottery winnings. I wasn't endorsing it ... just proving that other people have thought of the concept.

[bhw]

Laugh all you want, but the calculator and odometer don't lie. When I'm hauling the board, I get 1-2mpg better mileage than without.