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In This Episode
There are so many things that rob us of fuel efficiency when we take to the road. All the little things add up, but just knowing helps us all tweak our systems for those extra miles and long-hauls! Also, PJ and Lindsay took on their own camping adventure at Inks Lake and Longhorn Caverns last week. They recount some of the adventures. Join us!
Banter section:
- The weekend campout at Inks Lake re-cap!
- Highs and Lows
- Lessons learned… what you’ll do differently
- Skills unlocked!
- Accessories, setup, and mods you’re now looking to do for future trips
- No Spring Austin RV Show this year… what’re we gonna do?
Main Topic: Things That Rob Our Gas Mileage
Well… we all want to mix some longer distance, epic journeys into our camping plans. Just like the confusing nature of cargo and towing capacities… every little consideration adds up to either help or hurt your gas mileage.
- Weights
- Human cargo… and pets
- Luggage and other stuff
- Anything that adds weight, really…. That 62oz mega drink cup you always travel with, and the sunflower seeds.
- Aerodynamic drag
- Upgraded bumpers
- Roof Racks
- Towing mirrors
- Additional lights (we’re looking at you, overlanders)
- Steps
- Even antennas… and that foxtail attached to the end of your antenna
- Ever see those little deer and wildlife deterrent gizmos people put on their front bumper? I don’t know that they really work… but they do add just a little bit of extra drag.
- The drag of your camper… obviously
- Tires…
- Under-inflated tires
- Larger wheels and tires
- Nobby treads
- Now… let’s talk about the human factor. Driving habits make a significant difference.
- Acceleration… the most inefficient time in moving a vehicle
- Overall speed (maintaining higher speeds is less efficient due to higher aerodynamic friction/drag)
- Route and street choices…
- Traffic
- Turns
- Changes in elevation
- Drafting! … don’t do this!
- Other environmental issues
- Temperature
- Humidity
- Altitude
- Head-wind
- Vehicle Maintenance
- Oil Changes
- Air Filters
- Ignition Timing
- The “tune” of your vehicle’s computer
- Etc.
- BUT, keep safety in mind. Have the right equipment in and on your rig to be safe, first, and then balance fuel economy with your travel enjoyment.
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