Trailering MPG - Weight or Frontal area drag?

[PaulProe]

I just pulled my trailer 425 miles, essentially empty, had about 300lbs of parts in the nose. Driving into 15mph cross and headwinds, at 70mph. And I am only getting 10mpg, same as if I had the car in the trailer.

Is it the weight of the load that causes lowered MPG or Drag? This experience seems to favor drag, considerably! I know that both play a factor, but never expected this.

???
Paul

 

[33ratride]

Most all of the new rv trailers and fifth wheels talk about the best aero design on the front of their product. So I think drag has alot to do with mpg. The weight has to do with getting it rolling and stopping. Just my two cents.

 

[Tim M]

Get that nose out of the air, and you'll get better mpg. With my trailer, car or no car, I'm getting 12 - 15.....10 if I fight a headwind. This is also where a V-8 may do better too. I know we've talked about it a lot, but, maybe a simple "camper" cover on the bed of the truck with an air foil to direct the wind over the trailer...IF you're that concerned about it. Considering the number of times I tow, I'm not that concerned.

 

[Richgrsc]

Its both in my opinion. I get a certain mpg just driving the truck, less towing the trailer, and even less with the trailer loaded.