Competition Tailgate removal when drag racing?

[mdivincentis]

I have heard so many different opinions on this that I thought I better ask the masters.....



So, is it to our/your advantage to remove the tailgate for a drag race? Assume traction is not an issue. I know the weight loss is good, but what happens aerodynamically?



I have also had people say to fold in your mirrors. Any appreciable difference there?







Thanks,

Matt

 

[Fletcher]

Originally posted by mdivincentis

I have heard so many different opinions on this that I thought I better ask the masters.....



So, is it to our/your advantage to remove the tailgate for a drag race? Assume traction is not an issue. I know the weight loss is good, but what happens aerodynamically?



I have also had people say to fold in your mirrors. Any appreciable difference there?







Thanks,

Matt

I tested this, w/mirrors left out and tail gate on, this affected MY truck by 2 mph. I would end the @ 130. 4 w/ similar 60ft times.

When you run a stack you can see the air stream run right into the tailgate.