New To Me Tow Vehicle

[pdqparalegal1]

Originally Posted by DouglasReid

I know this sounds a bit crazy but I used to tow at 65 because of the limitations on the ST tires. I found that if I dropped my speed to just 62, my mileage increased 10%.

In other words, a 5% decrease in speed equaled a 10% increase in fuel economy. Im in! The difference in my arrival time is measured in mere minutes

Cummings diesel has a chart on their web site that shows the relationship between frontal area, speed, and mileage. Pretty interesting.

[Murbella7]

Originally Posted by CaptnJohn

About the same with my '16 F350 6.7. On back roads that is a great speed. On the interstates I'd feel a hazard and keep it at least 62 and usually 65.

In my early days of fifth wheeling, I was very conscious of our size and speed on suburban/city roads, country back roads and the main highways. This caused tension and my driving suffered because of it. On back roads, we take up almost the whole width sometimes so have to be super careful and keep an alert eye for oncoming traffic as well as what's behind. On the highways I drive at what I feel is best for economy. I know I can go faster but that just costs me money and distance. There is plenty of room for other traffic to pass and if it is a bit congested then they have to wait, just like I would if I was in one of their vehicles.

After some experience now I am a lot more comfortable driving almost anywhere with my rig. But while still mindful of doing the right thing by other road users, there is no value in pushing myself just to please them. I drive as I need to and as conditions allow. The gawkers actually are a lot of fun. They sit behind you for a while wondering just how big this thing is. Then they pull out and do the slow cruise past, to get big eyeful. They can be more of a hazard than us.

[Chief T]

Congratulations on the purchase of the new to you tow vehicle. May the return on investment be many years of driving enjoyment.

Safe and happy travels.