Theoretically, how does the distribution of the vehicle's weight effect it's ability to achieve higher mpg's? After filling up my tank the other day, I seemed to be able to glide further with the extra weight on the ***-end. This would probably be even more noticable on a car with a larger tank, mine is only 8 gallon.
I know slot car racers put as much weight on the rear to "shove" the cars down the ramp, I'd assume this would be similiar to our cars...
Are we talking total weight or the distribution of it over each axle?
Total weight increase harms FE (more to push uphills and off from starts etc) but allows added momentum (down hill runs) if you can take advantage of it.
Changing the weight distribution will make little , if any , difference to FE unless the changes are extreme enough to alter the aero by altering the angle of the body.
I have lightend the car's "dry curb weight" around 125lbs and definitly noticed an increase in FE. It changed my gearing, so instead of needing to be screaming in 3rd to get up the mountain, I can now cruise up in 4rth.
Most of that weight removed was towards the rear half of the car, and I was just curious what everyone's opinion is on it...
in theory, balance the weight rather than have one heavy axle with more friction than the other axle being dragged behind.
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-Russell
1991 Toyota Pickup 22R-E 2.4 I4/5 speed
1990 Toyota Cressida 7M-GE 3.0 I6/5-speed manual
mechanic, carpenter, stagehand, rigger, and know-it-all smartass
"You don't get to judge me for how I fix what you break"
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