Car Top Carrier
Printed From: R-pod Owners Forum
Category: R-pod Discussion Forums
Forum Name: Podmods, Maintenance, Tips and Tricks
Forum Discription: Ask maintenance questions, share your podmods (modifications) and helpful tips
URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3630
Printed Date: 30 May 2025 at 12:34am
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 9.64 - http://www.webwizforums.com
Topic: Car Top Carrier
Posted By: Sleepless
Subject: Car Top Carrier
Date Posted: 17 Jun 2013 at 11:38pm
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I have read almost every post on this forum during the past few weeks. I noticed a few members suspect that their towing gas mileage improved when they had either a canoe or kayak(s) mounted on the roof. The theory is that these diverted the flow of air over the TV and trailer, decreasing the inherent air drag. If this is actually fact, why would not a car top carrier not also divert the air flow and result in similar possible increases in gas mileage? I am considering purchasing such a carrier to hold my folding chairs, R-Dome and a few other bulky items that are difficult to carry in the R-Pod, but only if there is a good chance it might also improve gas mileage. Has anyone had any experience with a car top carrier on their tow vehicle? Bob ------------- 2014 R-Pod 178 (OUR POD) 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche |
Replies:
Posted By: Seanl
Date Posted: 18 Jun 2013 at 7:56am
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I have just gotten a car top carrier and I was wondering the same thing. I will let you know if I see any improvement. I suspect it might help but because the TV is not as wide as the Trailer that it may not punch a big enough hole in the air. ------------- Sean, 2011 Rpod RP-173,2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition 
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Posted By: furpod
Date Posted: 18 Jun 2013 at 8:18am
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My *guess* is it will depend on the carrier, most will not sit close enough to the pod to keep air from moving back down behind them.. canoes and such are longer.. ------------- |
Posted By: Sleepless
Date Posted: 18 Jun 2013 at 8:28am
You might be right, especially if the carrier is the high boxy style. I was thinking of one of the newer styles, long, low profile and with an aerodynamic shape that "might" divert the air upward. Even then, it might not help. Regardless, we do need the storage space for our light, bulky items on extended trips. |