RTT Aero Test

[Riviot]

Someone smarter than me modified their R1T to plug the roof aero holes while towing, leading a few of us to ask if it's more aerodynamic with or without plugs when running with an RTT. We're leaving for a trip using the RTT tomorrow, so it's time to run another test!

Like my other testing loop I warmed up the truck and ran with identical settings and stats, just with an earlier turn around making a shorter run. This one had roundabouts instead of lights so average speed stayed the same. As before, I ran 66mph on the highway. This was much easier than my wheel/tire combo efficiency tests.

Verdict? 3% improvement with plugs! Not too shabby, but not a drastic difference. I think I'll leave it on for our Montana road trip starting tomorrow.

Without plugs

Plug made of black painters tape and fiberboard from my cannibalized old gear tunnel storage bin

With plugs

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[mikehmb]

Are you running the RTT directly on the x-bars on the bed, or do you have aftermarket risers?

 

[Riviot]

Are you running the RTT directly on the x-bars on the bed, or do you have aftermarket risers?

Directly on crossbars. The top is lower than the aero exits but I used to notice a little air turbulence on the side of the RTT facing the rear window, so it made me think it was worth trying.

 

[WSea]

I cover the aero holes with clear ppf. Super easy although it was all torn up after a recent 6000 mile roadtrip. I think it happened due to temps as high as 106

 

[R1Thor]

I was thinking of building a mold to create some silicone-like plugs to push into the holes. The only problem is it'd cost about a $120 to produce. Not sure if it's worth it for the small efficiency boost. I guess if you net 3% improvement for enough miles it may help.

Then again, different trailers, tents, racks, and loading may net different results even greater. Maybe worth making a sample size and finding other owners with different loading requirements and doing a bunch of testing.... ?

 

[COdogman]

The chonky puppy is the difference.

 

[Riviot]

The chonky puppy is the difference.

"WHO YOU CALLIN CHONKY?!"
-Douglas Munro Fur AKA Doug E. Fresh AKA Doogle

 

[COdogman]

"WHO YOU CALLIN CHONKY?!"
-Douglas Munro Fur AKA Doug E. Fresh AKA Doogle

ok maybe not physically, but you can’t tell me he’s not a little chonky between the ears.

 

[VSG]

"WHO YOU CALLIN CHONKY?!"
-Douglas Munro Fur AKA Doug E. Fresh AKA Doogle

A coast guard AND a rap reference in one. That's one well rounded (not chonky) pup.

 

[Riviot]

A coast guard AND a rap reference in one. That's one well rounded (not chonky) pup.

He's still learning the moves

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