Mini van roof racks??

[s1120]

So, how much MPG do you think I am loosing realworld having a roof rack on a minivan? I have a 96 Windstar, and I know I am never going to get great millage, but Im hopping to get a little more to a tank. Wondering how much I would gain[if any] for loosing the roof rack?

[2TonJellyBean]

The whole rack or the cross rails?

[popimp]

I took the bars off of my van. Metro MPG also did a test (not scientific), that proved the effects of having the cross bars (roof rack). He lost a bit when he had a bike on the rack.

[MetroMPG]

You'll note that the new GM 2-mode hybrid SUV's come without roof racks for a reason.

I measured (unscientifically) a 12.7% hit with old-skool racks on my Firefly. That's with them empty.

General estimates are hard to come by (precisely because the situation will be different for different vehicle/rack designs). I've seen them range from 5-20%. I'd say (WAG) the Windstar's closer to the bottom end though, based on their design.

But as with all questions aero, it depends on how much highway driving you typically do, and how fast you go when you're there.

http://metrompg.com/posts/roof-racks.htm

Edit: if it were my van, I'd take them off. Will it help? Yes. Will you be able to detect a clear difference in tank-to-tank comparisons? Don't hold your breath.

[s1120]

Thanks for your help guys! You know, the windstars are realy pretty aero, but every little bit helps. Think I will start with pulling the cross bars out at least.

[s1120]

Well I pulled the cross bars out. Have not removed the side rails yet, but that may come down the road. We will see how it work...