Air Dams / Front Valances
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Joined: Sep 2001
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Air Dams / Front Valances
I just thought this would be intesting information to share. I have a 1995 F150. It has not had an air dam / valance on it for 6-7 years. It was busted while off roading, so I just removed it and left it at that. Since gas has become such an issue, I have been looking for ways to get better fuel economy. Well, I've always been concerned about that. Anyways, I read quite a bit about areodynamics etc. Even the newer semis have air dams and side skirts. I found a new air dam on ebay for about 10 bucks and decided to go ahead and put it back on. I was surprised at the result. Its always gotten about 15 mpg on average. Since I have had the air dam back on the truck for a week or two, my calculations show that I am getting about 17-18 mpg. I have also noticed that after filling up, it does take the guage longer to come off of the full mark. It is obvious that my truck is getting better mileage. So, I guess what I am saying is if you have an air dam leave it on your truck and if you don't get one if there is one available for your application. 
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 6,940
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From: Eastern WA
You are now allowing less air under the truck while driving. Air under any vehicle creates turbulance which results in drag and thus lowers gas mileage. Be aware too that many vehicles will have cooling issues if there is no air dam up front.
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Joined: Sep 2001
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I have noticed that there are plastic plates etc along the under carriage of many new cars to improve aerodynamics. I always thought that some air would get caught under the truck. I didn't realize that it was worth 2 or 3 mpg.
