At Sac Valley Diesel in Sacramento, we know how much efficiency matters. When it comes to your truck, it’s equally important. Obviously, a huge chunk of your operating cost is fuel consumption, which is largely dependent on the truck's design. Fortunately, there are ways to greatly increase the efficiency of your truck, regardless of shape or size.
Besides weight, the most important aspect of efficiency is aerodynamics. Most commercial trucks are huge, brick-shaped wind blockers, and travel at interstate speeds for long periods of time...speeds where aerodynamics matter most. By decreasing air drag, you’ll notice a significant increase in fuel mileage.
Gap enclosure is one way to reduce drag. Reducing the amount of air that can tunnel into the gap between your tractor and the trailer will make your rig more efficient. Side skirts are another way to increase aerodynamics. They keep airflow from being interrupted by the wheel wells, and they look good too. Aerodynamic mirrors may have more of an effect than you think. They not only reduce drag themselves but assist in channeling air around the truck in a more efficient manner. Boat tails are also becoming more popular. Attached to the back of the trailer, these panels help air move fluidly around the truck, and pull the air away from the back.
With these measures taken, you can reduce the drag on a commercial truck by a significant margin, lowering drag by at least 20%. For efficiency device installation or any other of your repair or maintenance needs, trust the expert mechanics at Sac Valley Diesel the number one truck repair shop in Sacramento to get the job done. Call or drop by today.
