Fuel economy - Tailgate up or down?
Suspended
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 94
Likes: 0
From: Michigan
Originally Posted by Bubbadewsky
I have a friend with an 2002 F-150 and he was bragging about supposed fuel savings with the gate down until a rock came up from his back tire and dented his tail gate. $300 later and his is always up now. It looks impossible for a rock to hit the gate with mud flaps but his did.
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 486
Likes: 0
From: San Diego
There is a lot of talk about whether or not you would gain any extra mpg by adding a tonneau cover. Do a search and you are sure to see that people have a very wide opinion about what they can get to save gas mileage. 
Judging by the varying viewpoints on this subject, I think you will only find subjective opinion, as opposed to objective. What I have found is that if you can reduce the drag without adding much weight, most people have found gains of about 10% or 1-2 MPG. Keep in mind, those who drive their trucks like they were piloting F-14's won't see a bit of difference. Check out the link here: tonneau cover comparison . Based on weight and rigidity, products that fit your application will be the best bang for your buck.
There is no supplement for a lead foot and a head full of rocks.
Judging by the varying viewpoints on this subject, I think you will only find subjective opinion, as opposed to objective. What I have found is that if you can reduce the drag without adding much weight, most people have found gains of about 10% or 1-2 MPG. Keep in mind, those who drive their trucks like they were piloting F-14's won't see a bit of difference. Check out the link here: tonneau cover comparison . Based on weight and rigidity, products that fit your application will be the best bang for your buck.
There is no supplement for a lead foot and a head full of rocks.