Low mpg and setting van for winter

[scrancat]

New to caravaning and just been away for 1st time.On return journey noticed significantly less mpg.Came back in high winds and felt a bit more resistance.Could this be the reason?Only other difference was a slightly lower nose weight.

Just came in from parking van up for winter.Drained of all water,not sure whether to close blinds,curtains - any other useful advice appreciated.Thanks

 

[xtrailman]

James

All down to the wind, head wind being the worst, all you can do is reduce speed.

 

[xtrailman]

james

We only draw the curtains during winter, if you leave the blinds down (the spring return type) over winter the blinds do not always spring back like they use to.

 

[ProfJohnL]

It can be quite surprising how much wind does affect MPG. In my dim and distant past I had to take a consignment of parts to Fleetwood caravans in Suffolk. The van was Ford transit with a Luton body, and it was loaded close to its 30cwt limit. (shows how long ago it was). I filled up with fuel in the Midlands, and again in Suffolk, now I can't remember the exact figures but, the loaded journey averaged out at some 10% better than the return empty journey.

The only difference I could relate was that on the down journey I had a tail wind and on the return it was more of a head wind. What a wind it was, I recall that my arm muscled ached from having to hold the van against the strong head wind which had a strong side component on the return journey.

 

[Oldsalt49]

James,

I feel you would be better off draining all the water out of your van before leaving the caravan site. Water has a lot of weight (1 gallon is 10lb) and can cause instability of the outfit if it is sloshing around in the various container etc. Is your outfit a good match, can you get into top gear? Towing will dramatically effect fuel consumption, its a penalty we all pay for to enjoy our hobby. Don't use your blinds, use the curtains, the springs in the blinds mechanism can suffer if left down for long periods.

Welcome to one of the most enjoyable hobbies ever created.

David & Linda