Doka and Sinka Aerodynamics with and without canopies.

[SyncroGhia]

I'm currently driving a Tristar 2WD daily and a question within my blog thread has prompted a question...

With a T3 (Vanagon) Doka and Sinka, what does everyone think would be the most aerodynamic?

Without a Canopy?

With a Tonneau Cover?

With a Cab height Canopy?

I've tried to add another poll option for the extra height canopy but it won't let me.

I've always thought that the Crew Cab/Single Cab performed less well without a canopy as the tailgate acts as a windbreak but I've no proof of this.

Anyone got any hard and fast info on this?

Cheers

MG
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[Leipo]

mythbusters tested this and the verdict was: empty/open boot with tailgate in the up position gave the best fuelefficient results!

the tailgate creates a bubble of air that stands still and directs the flowing air over the tailgate with less drag then you would think

the canopy would not have this air bubble and will have more drag all by itself and would be the least fuelefficient option

[SyncroGhia]

[Leipo]

episode 43 and re-visited in episode 64

[Boltze]

I think with canopy or covers its a little bit like the Tischer Huckepack cabins in this article

more cabins:

Tischer: http://www.vwpix.org/T3/Prospekte/deutschland/reisemobile/Tischer/
Lyding: http://www.vwpix.org/T3/Prospekte/deutschland/reisemobile/Lyding/
Road Ranger: http://www.vwpix.org/T3/Prospekte/deutschland/reisemobile/Road_Ranger/
Bimobil: http://www.vwpix.org/T3/Prospekte/deutschland/reisemobile/Bimobil/
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Regards

Christoph

1985 Caravelle GL syncro
1990 California
1981 Joker
Germany

[SyncroGhia]

Good info, thanks Christoph

I'm tempted to remove the canopy and see what the difference in mpg is.

MG
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T3 Syncro 6x6 SOLD
T3 RS6 Bluestar
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[balzac]

[MsTaboo]

There was a big difference in airflow between using the tilt and bareback on my Syncro Doka.
Just removing the canvas made a noticeable difference.
But I really like the covered storage, so maybe if I keep it I'll think about cutting down the legs so it's cabin height.
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[Central Syncronizer]

Its my understanding that most drag is generated at the rear of the vehicle. The tonneau cover comes closer to "tapering" the truck towards the back. It also reduces the interference drag created by the tailgate.

I think the greatest drag is generated by a vertical profile at the rear (which is at its greatest with an oem canopy)
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[sub-hatchtim]

I loose a few mpg with the canopy installed but I really like having it on there it is very useful, I also notice that handling is adversely affected with stock spring's
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[SyncroGhia]

I've been monitoring my MPG and have been driving with and without the canopy.

I never drive over 60mph for longer than 30 seconds or so as it's revving the nads off the engine and it'll only do that going downhill

General top speed is 55-60mph.

A 160 mile journey with the canopy on gave 35.6mpg and the same journey without the canopy gave 35.5mpg. The van was loaded in the same way and the weather was similar although this is hardly scientific.

I've been driving around without the canopy on over last two weeks to try to stop it being blown around so much as we've had fairly gusty winds. This has certainly made a difference but again, mpg is hardly changed.

My daily drive to work is 25 miles cross country, overtaking, speeds from 25-55mph is giving me around 33mpg and the canopy isn't making that much difference.

I'll be doing the same 160 mile journey again tomorrow and will have the canopy on for practical reasons on keeping stuff dry.

I know that Myth Busters did the experiment but that was on a more traditional shaped vehicle with a bonnet... I'm not sure if the aerodynamics make our vans a different kettle of fish?

MG
_________________
T3 Syncro 16 S6 Westfalia Limey SOLD
T3 Syncro 6x6 SOLD
T3 RS6 Bluestar
T3 Tristar Syncro 16 SOLD
T3 Tristar Syncro RHD SOLD

[MsTaboo]

I missed this thread back in the day, but for the archive I voted in the tonneau cover category.
Had a Syncro Tristar that the PO had installed a tonneau cover that just snapped onto the gates and had a slotted piece behind cab to hold tight.
I added some support rods across the bed to keep water from pooling on the cover and increase it's tautness.
There was a noticeable difference with the cover vs without in both noise and buffeting. Also was nice to keep stuff dry.

_________________
Currently:
'90 Syncro Westy 3 knob w/Zetec

The information age has morphed into the age of disinformation and willful ignorance. Agnotology!
When you stir up shit you're bound to get some on yourself.
Resist Kleptocratic Oligarchy (and Idiocracy)!

[16CVs]

Rarely have I seen a Tristar with Tinted glass.

Stacy
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[Wildthings]

A Kamm Back designed topper might do you the best.

[MsTaboo]

[Crankey]

SyncroGhia, that is a bitchen' ride.

I vote custom built canopy frame at cab height and full custom covered wagon canvass.

But I did see that Mythbusters episode and remember it was logical and interesting episode.

[syncrodoka]

IIRC syncroghia has sold that truck years ago. Post is from 2013.