How Do I Improve Fuel Mileage by Changing the Air Vortex at the Rear of a Trailer?

antimatter image by Jon Yuschock from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Air vortexes, also called tabs or scoops, mount to the back ends of trailers and RVs to give added aerodynamics. The result of these devices is reduced fuel consumption due to the air moving more efficiently over the trailer's surface.

The installation of these units is a straightforward process. The time consuming portion comes in the adjustment to get the scoops or vortexes working at their prime angle, which takes trial and error.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

1 or 2 air scoops or air tabs
Bucket with warm soapy water and a sponge
Screwdrivers
Power drill and bits

Step 1

On the back end of the trailer, wash the side wall edges and corners to clean up the area for the vortexes or scoops. Let the corners dry.

Step 2

Hold up one of the scoops/vortexes to the corner of the trailer so it is upright and perpendicular to the trailer itself. Have an assistant hold it in place while you mark where the screw holes are on the trailer corners.

Step 3

Drill out the holes and place the vortex against the trailer, aligning the holes. Screw it into place. Repeat this with the other vortex on the other corner of the end of the trailer.

Step 4

Attach the trailer to your towing vehicle and go for a test drive. Try to keep the driver-side window rolled down so you can listen for air current moving over the vortex. Listen for a low-pitched hum, much like a low-sounding vibration.

Step 5

Monitor your gas mileage on the tow vehicle over the course of a week or two. Make micro adjustments to the angle of the scoop by screwing the scoop tighter to the trailer or loosening to bring it out. Use only one side of the screws on each scoop to adjust until you get the proper angle for gas savings.

Article Written By Eric Cedric

A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...