When you're driving 5,000lbs of truck with a large, torquey engine, fuel efficiency isn't the first quality that comes to mind.
However, when you're not hauling a heavy load, you may want to get the most miles out of every gallon. How do you do that?
Rumor has it, you can improve aerodynamics by lowing your tailgate (when the bed is empty, of course). This claim is put to the test on a Ford F-150 in a wind tunnel.
Though putting the tailgate down makes intuitive sense, aerodynamics is a tricky branch of physics. In fact, keeping the gate up means that a sort of air pocket will form in the cargo box, keeping wind out of it. When you put the gate down, it messes that up and creates more wind drag.
The only way to do better is with a tonneau cover.
Another easy way to improve efficiency is with a service appointment for regular maintenance. Remember, if you're doing a lot of heavy hauling, your oil may need to be changed more frequently. Don't let worn out fluids hold back your truck's performance. Visit LCM Used Car Center today.
