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Old 02-06-2014, 08:01 AM   #1
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Baseplate mpg penalty

I just had Camping World install a Roadmaster baseplate on my 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid. MPG gauge now shows low 40's instead of the high 40's the day before (over the same routes, same speeds.) Anyone else see this?
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Old 02-06-2014, 08:09 AM   #2
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I've never heard of this before. I'd call Roadmaster and ask them if the install may interfere with the mpg sensor.
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Old 02-06-2014, 09:00 AM   #3
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Or I can wait until the next fill-up. The install instructions require disconnecting the ambient temperature sensor and the louver/shutter motor but no other electrical components; however, the install requires cutting some of the splash shields, which may affect aerodynamics.
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Old 02-06-2014, 09:03 AM   #4
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Keep us informed.
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Old 02-06-2014, 09:22 AM   #5
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In addition to possible aerodynamic impacts, you added a significant chunk of weight. I don"t know the design of your toad, but on mine I would expect the added weight to be more of an impact than changes in aerodynamics.
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Old 02-06-2014, 09:37 AM   #6
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Good point.
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Old 02-06-2014, 10:36 AM   #7
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Or I can wait until the next fill-up. The install instructions require disconnecting the ambient temperature sensor and the louver/shutter motor but no other electrical components; however, the install requires cutting some of the splash shields, which may affect aerodynamics.

This could very well be the problem. Check and make sure the sensor was reconnected correctly and reinstalled in it's normal location. This sensor can have quite an impact on fuel mileage in a fuel injected vehicle.
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Old 02-06-2014, 12:20 PM   #8
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On the modern 40MPG plus cars many things can affect the MPG. The install of a baseplate WILL slightly affect air flow and thus MPG.. Humidity, Barometric pressure,, Wind speed, Rain, and much much much more.

That said, I have a blue ox on my 2001 Neon, this is a 20something MPG ride. Hold on while I search. Supposed to get 27 City 33 highway delivers 23 mixed with me driving and .. Well.. i'm not "Mileing" any.
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Old 02-06-2014, 02:01 PM   #9
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You know those millage charts are "Estimates". I think they are about as accurate as are weather "Forecast". Just sayin'.
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Old 02-06-2014, 06:40 PM   #10
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In addition to possible aerodynamic impacts, you added a significant chunk of weight. I don"t know the design of your toad, but on mine I would expect the added weight to be more of an impact than changes in aerodynamics.
Blue Ox lists the baseplate weight as 43 lbs. Ford lists the 2013 Fusion as 3,615 lbs.

So no, I don't think so.
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Old 02-07-2014, 06:18 AM   #11
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Blue Ox lists the baseplate weight as 43 lbs. Ford lists the 2013 Fusion as 3,615 lbs.

So no, I don't think so.
Geez guys, doesn't anybody watch NASCAR anymore. The slightest change in weight and/or aerodynamics can have a significant effect on the car including handling, turning, and fuel mileage. Cut a couple of holes in the grill and add 40+ lbs to the nose has got to have an effect.
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Old 02-07-2014, 06:26 AM   #12
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Geez guys, doesn't anybody watch NASCAR anymore. The slightest change in weight and/or aerodynamics can have a significant effect on the car including handling, turning, and fuel mileage. Cut a couple of holes in the grill and add 40+ lbs to the nose has got to have an effect.
Add a wedge and take two turns off the track bar! Seriously it makes about a 1 - 2 MPG difference...
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Old 02-07-2014, 06:44 AM   #13
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Be sure the louver/shutter motor is working and closing the louvers properly. 43 lb. is not going to noticeably effect fuel mileage.
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Old 02-07-2014, 09:16 AM   #14
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If a 43# baseplate creates that much difference what happens when your 110# DW goes with you?

Glenn
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