Yakima Cargo Basket Deflector

I look at this deflector and think it doesn't do much. When not carrying anything in the basket it may even decrease gas mileage since it stands almost vertical (70 deg.) obstructing air flow. Also, if there is something in the basket taller than the deflector itself, it is just deflecting air into the cargo which isn't much help.

I'm thinking the deflector is mostly an ad for Yakima. Any different thoughts?

 

It helps redirect air so it doesn’t sound like you have a kazoo on your roof while you’re driving down the highway.

 

I'm sure you stuck your hand out the window as a kid. If the car was moving fast enough and your palm was flat enough against the wind, the wind would push your arm back. Remember? But if you began to angle your hand, air would flow up and over or down and under. The more horizontal your hand the less resistance it felt. Spoilers act in the same way. You need to find the spoilers sweet spot. Just because the items behind it are a little taller doesn't mean they're catching air. The deflector, if adjusted properly is likely sending airflow over them. Tape some streamers on top of the spoiler and have someone observe how they behave at 20 to 30 miles an hour. Tinker a little.

 

Yeah, I have stuck my hand out the window of a moving car. I'm also a pilot; so I understand airflow over wings, flaps, etc.

I guess I would have to follow your suggestion of using streamers to see how high the airflow get deflected.

But I also know it takes energy to deflect that airflow which is what makes me wonder how it affects gas mileage at highway speeds when the basket is empty and there is no need to deflect the airflow.

 

Okay, so the deflector is mostly an ad for Yakima. Works for me.

 

I took my basket off for the winter and didn't notice any difference with gas mileage. I suppose there has to be a difference buts not noticeable at all in my experience. I love the look of it but what a pain to clean the roof when washing the truck. Also I couldn't imagine cleaning the snow off easily with that basket.

 

This is the purpose of the deflector.

 

I took my Yakima basket off the day I brought my 4Runner home but I did use it on a recent trip since my Gobi hasn’t come in yet. Btw, what are you flying?

 

Does anyone have the Yakima cargo net made for the Megawarrior? If so, does it hold things down tight? I want to be able to put all my beach stuff on stop and drive down the highway going 70 mph without everything flying off the top.

https://yakima.com/products/megawar...38.392178539.1614645801-1251431377.1614645801

 

I ordered one of these in January and was told they were out of stock. Now I'm told I'll get it in 2-3 weeks.

 

I decide to experiment and removed the deflector. Those who said that it helps decrease wind noise are correct. Not as loud as a "kazoo" but loud enough that I put it back on

 

I always wondered but not no more. I'll keep mine on.