MPG difference with cargo cover vs no cover

[mdemars03]

I am planning on taking my truck on a trip next weekend. It will be a few hundred miles round trip at most. With a M923A2 with the 6CTA 8.3L Cummins how much difference on fuel mileage will I see if I drive with the cargo cover installed versus having the cargo cover removed. I just got the cargo cover and got it installed this past week so I have no history in driving with the cover installed to be able to come up with exact numbers for my truck. I understand each truck is different and fuel mileage will be different from truck to truck. I am just curious how much difference ie 1 to 2 mpg difference with cargo cover on versus cargo cover removed.

 

[emmado22]

Forget the MPG difference. Every mile you drive at highway speed is less life on the cover. Unless you need the cover, dont use it, unless you like to buy covers.

 

[sd39u]

Agree with this 100%. First thing to go will be your stitching on your windows.

Forget the MPG difference. Every mile you drive at highway speed is less life on the cover. Unless you need the cover, dont use it, unless you like to buy covers.

 

[wreckerman893]

The vehicle has the aerodynamics of a concrete block. It really doesn't matter. As stated above catching all that wind will shorten the life of the cover.

 

[Coffey1]

And taking taking that cover off and on will shorten my life lol.

 

[juanprado]

I was fortunate to get a brand new vinyl GMA brand cover from another member here when I got my truck 4 years ago. I keep the cover on 95% the time and do make city & interstate trips. I really have noticed no issues with mpg or wear. It has slightly faded and the original slightly pinkish tone is now all tan. Only problem is the well known not super rope junk they use from factory.

 

[98G]

I drove that truck from Tucson to St Louis and back, with cargo cover in place. MPG was unaffected, as compared to previous trips to Ft Bliss and Nellis AFB without the cover.

If the cover is nice and tight and not flapping, increased wear should be trivial. Although if it's flapping it'll beat itself to death in short order.

 

[mdemars03]

Thanks for the info. Things changed and I won't need to keep it on for the trip I am making after all. The input though about MPG and wear and tear was very helpful. Thank you all for your advice!!