Aerodynamics

[Zimbo76]

I noticed something over the weekend, and maybe you hardcore D90 drivers can confirm for me.
I drove about 180 miles on the highway, and since you have a lot of time to sit and think about the gas mileage and brick like aerodynamics of the defender, I pondered if there was anything I could do to help out. After reaching to adjust my side mirror, I noticed obviously that there is a lot of resistance with those beast mirrors. I pulled it in all the way so it was not a factor, and pulled the passenger side in also.
It may have just been me, but I felt a marked difference. I wasn't really able to go any faster (not that I want to since my d90 cruises at 80), but it certainly felt like the beast was able to get through the wind better.
Any thoughts?

[chrisvonc]

A lot of things can contribute. The mirrors certainally will add to it also, roof racks, as well as off-roading lights. Lights like the big round Hellas for example are simply huge pie plates up there adding to the force that slows you down.

[whistler110]

If you do some research on electric vehicles you'll find out all kinds of cool stuff. From what I remember the rear shape is a major factor as well as the wheel wells and the underside of the truck. I've thought about putting full length skid plates on my truck to smooth out the air flow but I don't know what you could do about the massive wheel wells on our trucks.

[rover4x4]

I would think a steering skid such as the mantec would help smooth things out on the front of the vehicle. who knows.

[evilfij]

The best thing to do would be to remove the cage, get a full tonneau and fold the windscreen flat.

Ron

[Mike Hippert]

You need to add a BIG wing to the back and 26" spinners! Just kidding, It feels as if the 90 rides better with the top and doors off, I would like to try driving as Ron said without the windscreen. Also you can draft trucks, you know when your doing it right as it feels as though they are pulling you along, but this kinda sucks as most trucks go sloooooooow.

[Glenn_Guinto]

LOL :grin

[evilfij]

Mike,

You and I think so much a like it is scary. I do the same thing, I draft big trucks and it does pull you along.

Ron

[Eric Siepmann]

I would think a steering skid such as the mantec would help smooth things out on the front of the vehicle. who knows.

Phil,

Got one, doesn't really help at all. But hey I bought it for pro not aero.

EwS

[rover4x4]

let me emphasis the "I would think" part of the statement

[snuffer]

Heck take out the windsheild take off the back door and buy one of those helments like the Olympic bicycle rides use. Then use some kind of jet/turbofan engine. Oh those 255/85 pizza cutters would probably help also.

[Zimbo76]

I have my door tops off all the time. Rain or shine.
The top is a Surrey and with a drop curtain you barely get wet.
Taking the full soft top off and on is a pain!!
It certainly looks cool with the surrey. I have lost count at how many people are impressed with my Yellow D90.
The good news is I am moving back to Africa and have already laid claim to a 110 double cab, which I will get fitted for an expedition up into Malawi at Christmas.

[P1CR]

Tow a low, flat trailer. When towing my motorcycle, my truck is considerably faster on the highway.

Somehow, is smoothes the airflow coming off the back (wagon).


Or just draft a semi. My truck picks up so much speed behind 18 wheelers that I damn near rear end one every week.

[jstrong98]

i agree with the topless/ door less- seems like I haul a$$ with out the top and doors.

JS

[Tawayama]

Oh my HELL!

I can't believe that you would even worry about aerodynamics of the D90.

Personally I have only one way to cure the bad aerodynamic charactaristics of the Defender. It's the Passat Tdi wagon we're placing an order for.

Other than that tipping your mirrors in a bit ain't gonna do shit. You might think it is, but you probably are running a Tornado too.

I'll be looking for your next thread with anxious anticipation.

:rofl

[Bowtracer]

Michael I am having a hard time typing cuz I am laughing so damn hard!

OOOH my, well I think the draft idea has a little merit only to draft you are generally way too close to the semi! & AS WE ALL KNOW, these trucks handle like a 1.5 ton plywood box & I am not getting that close with my baby! The only diff between my 110 & my disco is wheel base they suck in a head wind & cross wind! BUT down wind the are great! Oh & down hill there are good too! I doo NOT own a car of any sorts so I have no comparison. So michael let me know!

With all due respect well you know!!

[evilfij]

Slade,

E320 CDI 379ft/lbs torque!!! Ft/lbs NOT newton/meters

screw the VeeDub

[Tawayama]

The VeeDub will run on veggie oil. Mercedes won't bring in a diesel anymore, so for German engineering, a decent stereo, good mileage and pleasant styling, the VeeDub will have to do.

We've already had a Benz, and the wife won't approve of a new one, so I'm going with her decision. The past 7 cars have been Land Rovers, so it's about time she got to choose something.

Having a real car will be nice. I've been driving around my bro-in-laws A4 wagon while he's in Mexico on vacation. It's been a dramatic change from driving the 145 around every day.

:D

[RyanS]

Michael,

You may already know this, but in case you don't, Craig Reece now owns a company that does diesel veggie conversions. I'm going on a road trip in July, and I'm going to stop by his place and see about getting my 6.5 converted.