Molded Splash Guards / mud Flaps

RodneyVT said:

Ford Parts / Accessory page offers these:
F-150 2021-2022 Carbon Black Molded Splash Guards Front Pair ~ ML3Z16A550AA (ford.com)

but says not for Lighting -curious what Lightning owners are using? Weathertech? Husky?

Click to expand...

Not for Lighting because they have a negative affect on you aero. They are great little parachutes to catch air & suck down your range @ freeway speeds.😎

ChasingCoral said:

Since these are immediately behind the tires and the tires generate large regions of turbulence, why do you think they will affect the aero? Is this a guess or have you seen tests or modeling to support this?

Click to expand...

.
"In general, mud flaps are infamous for producing drag."

A Google search on the subject will produce a bounty of results, but even small stylish mud flaps have a pretty dramatic effect on a model 3. Door handles and mirrors produce measurable negative effects, mud flaps by contrast are cute little parachutes.
😎

The area surrounding the wheels has massive impact on aerodynamics, it is a major focal point for even ICE trucks. Look at the air injection the manufacturers are putting into the fascia to try to get the air to go over the wheel well smoother.

I suppose anything is possible, but dollars to donuts says that any messing with that area is not going to be an improvement.
😉
I noticed that the Lightning has plastic chip guards on the lower fenders there, I am betting for exactly that purpose. That is what they found to be the best aero answer for the truck, or chances are they would have done something differently.

Here is a thesis for anybody interested in wheel well aerodynamic principles, and the mechanics of why mudflaps may not be your friend if you are trying to maximise range on the highway.

The NASCAR race last weekend was in Watkins Glen, New York. It rained, and NASCAR required the teams to install windshield wipers and and mudflaps on the rear. Much was made of the fairness of if teams rigged thier flaps to "break away", because this would give them a significant aero advantage.

How much does it matter on an F-150? Not as much as a racecar for sure. It is just good to know that the wheel well is a sensitive area, and can have an effect.