Ecoboost 3.5 Towing MPG Sucks
Hi all, back after a couple years without a RV......I jumped back in with a Passport Ultra Lite 153ML, GVWR of 4500lbs. I just returned from picking up the trailer and pulled it with my 2017 F150 3...
Forum Discussion
RoyJ wrote:whjco wrote:
A major factor in fuel economy when towing a travel trailer is the frontal area of the trailer. It takes energy to push all of that air out of the way and that's more of a factor than weight.
I have a 24' enclosed car trailer and I get the same mileage empty as I do with a 4500# vehicle in the trailer. I also drive charter buses and we pretty much average about 6 mpg whether we're loaded or empty. I think if you really want good fuel economy, get a pop-up or a crank-up that doesn't have the frontal area.
Bill J., Lexington, KY
In the past, Honda would list a different towing capacity for boats versus campers on their Pilot, reason being the boat is a lot more aerodynamic. Not sure if they still do.
When I was trucking, a dry van or reefer also made very difference loaded or empty, on flat ground. In the rockies it was a different story!
yup, wind resistance comes into play at all times. Effect of different weight is a "depends"
Weight basically comes into play when you change velocity or change altitude. work needs to be done to change speed (either by brakes or engine) or change altitude (again, either brakes or engine) So around town or lots of speed changes or climbing mountains weight has an effect on mileage that can be signficant.
On reasonably level ground at a reasonably constant speed it has minimal effect on mileage. Yes, there is likely an increase in rolling resistance and a few other minor effects from weight but they are minor at reasonably constant speed or reasonably level ground.
