[A/S] Pickup lid or camper shell and fuel economy

["Oliver Filippi" <ofilippi@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Has anyone had any experience getting improved fuel economy towing an
Airstream with a pickup equipped with a camper shell over the bed? (vs. no
camper shell or bed cover)

It seems to me that there might be a fuel economy improvement with the
improved aerodynamics.  Having a boxy rear tow vehicle close to the front of
the trailer would minimize the drag caused by "putting the air back
together" and then separating it again with the front of the trailer.
"Putting the air back together" is typically a greater aerodynamic drag than
separating the air in the first place.

It seems to me that many years ago I got better fuel economy with a then
full size Chevy Blazer than I do now with a full size, 3/4 ton short bed
Chevy Silverado pickup (no camper shell or tonneau cover), which has a far
superior engine and transmission.

Thank you for your input and comments.

Sincerely,

Oliver Filippi