Bed cover mpg for 1st gens

I looked up threads on this topic but didn't find any responses from 1st gen owners. If there is a thread I missed, by all means let me know.

I have been thinking about getting a bed cover. I have heard that it improves and sometimes destroys mpgs. However everyone who spoke about it did not have a 1st gen so... How are you 1st gen owners doing with your bed cover mpgs?

Also thinking about a soft topper shell if there are any opinions on those

Thanks

 

I love truxedo toneau covers for the practicality. I've never used the mpg as justification. I'm not sure that it would make much of a difference unless you got very scientific with the testing.

My favorite thing with a cover is not having to shovel snow out of the bed.

 

^ I doubt you will see "noticeable gains" when thinking of mpg. It is more "practical" for keeping things in the bed, whether it be for storage or just keeping dry.

I had an Extang BlackMax (p)leather tonneau for years before I bought the cap (used) and then found a great deal on the Undercover hard tonneau (has locks which is nice)

 

I figure it wouldn't improve mpg but I just wanted to know mainly if it kills your mpg when the bed cover is on as it blocks the design of the bed? Or does it have no effect?

Thanks for the responses

 

Definitely not going to help MPGs, I believe mythbusters even disproved that claim actually on an episode of their show once. Had no effect whatsoever on mileage one way or the other.

 

I remember seeing that episode as well. No change in the MPG. I don't think a properly installed soft tonneau cover or proper fitting bed cap will negatively impact MPG. I dunno maybe the weight of fiberglass topper could, but I doubt it.

 

I read the results of a very scientifically performed test regarding pickup truck mileage with various configurations. I can't recall anymore if a bed cover was better or worse than an uncovered bed, but the difference was nearly statistically insignificant. Running with no tailgate was slightly worse than running with a tailgate, but again, statistically insignificant.

I've looked for the study several times over the years and never could find it again. But, I'll google once more . . .

 

I have seen no difference from an open bed to a tonneau cover to the shell I have on now. It may make the truck slightly more areodynamic but not enough to justify getting one for MPGs.

 

http://www.dakota-durango.com/forum/showthread.php?t=117618

Buy it for other function, not MPG.

 

I have a topper and don't see any big of change at all in the MPG. Not a bed cover but something to consider. Bigger - heavier tires are the main culprit for killing MPGs in these pickups. They don't get bad MPGs but that's really not what a pickup is for maybe a Honda. haha

 

Did(do) you guys @gmr102 @frizzman @Xbeaus have a hard or soft shell. I can't find a hard shell for the life of me(maybe it's just Virginia) but I'm interested in the soft topper rather than a bed cover. Heard anything good about them or only settle for a hard shell?

 

The Extang is the soft variety. loved it for keeping things dry and snow out of the bed. Bought it a month after I bought the truck and had it on for 6 years. Sold it last year since it sat in the garage for another 5 years.

If you scour CL and other places you can come across some good deals on a hard tonneau. You may have to paint or do a little work on it but they stand up better over time. The soft ones will "age" and wear out.

 

I think I'm mixed up
I was wondering if you had something like this:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=NMwomxxh90s

 

oh, no I didn't get the soft topper. didn't know about those way back when. apparently they are pretty durable though.

 

I have a 2003 2.4l extended cab manual with scan gauge.
Added a Snug Top high profile shell.
30 mile commute: a mix of highway and surface roads.
My best is 27.5 mpg and typically I get above 25 mpg.
I coast wherever I can, 91 octane Chevron all the time, keep it under 65 on the highway, and slow off the line.

EJPHI