Hello all. Does anybody have good numbers as to the likely (if any) mpg improvement to be expected towing a 5th Wheel with a wind deflector installed on the roof. I expect to pick up my 2008 F350 Friday and will tow a 34ft 14k high profile fifth wheel. Am considering ordering a wind dfelector but wondering whether its worth it. Any thoughts? What type deflector might be best?

 

Look into this company www.taylorwings.com The wings do work if set correctly, just watch for the bug line on the trailer.

 

Thanks thebluebox I had a look. Their site quotes up to 10% fuel saving. Can anybody verify this?

 

I have a taylor wing on my 04 350 pulling a 36ft Mobile Suite. You will see at least a
1/2 MPG improvement during normal pulling. Will keep bugs off most of the 5th wheel.
Real advantage is going into a head wind. It really cuts it. You must lower the wing when not pulling or you will loose any gain when pulling.

 

Snydeda,

How long does it take to install and uninstall these thigs between towing trips?

 

Fordsince76, if you get the rack system it will only take about 20 minutes. It's a very nice system they use. If you mount directly to your cab ( I don't recemend this) it is still only 4 bolts that hold it on. Just have a extra person to help so you don't scratch anything.

 

First I would only recommend one using the rack. Removing the rack takes 5 to 10 minutes, but I would suggest lowering the wing angle all the way down. It comes with two support arms that allow you to adjust the angle of the wing so the air flows over your rig. I use wing nuts on the arms so I can quickly make the adjustment when not towing.

 

Thanks for the advice guys. The info you provide through this forum is great for guys like me who spend most of their time behind a desk. Much appreciated!

 

So in looking at Taylor Wings website I can understand what you are talking about. The rack to hold the wing actually mounts to the F350 truck box? Snydeda what size did you go with? Would you now still have chosen that size?

 

First let me correct I stated it took 5 to 10 minues to remove the rack. I meant to say to remove the wing from the rack. I went with the large wing, and still would if I were to repalace it.

 

I towed a 35' fifth wheel for 2 years back in '85 (F350 SuperCab Diesel) including to Alaska and back. The front of the camper used to get black with bugs. There were no deflectors being made for pickups, so I fabricated one myself and attached it to a pair of roof racks that clamped onto the rain gutters. Remember rain gutters and vent windows? I adjusted it until the bugs only hit the top several inches of the camper. I have no idea of MPG gains, but not carrying 100 pounds of smashed insects was worth it. Amazingly, very few ended up on the deflector.

 

You know I hadn't even thought about the bug issue but it certainly appears to justify the investment. I will be towing a 1`2.5 ft high 34ft 5th Wheel and I would certainly like to keep it half decently clean.