Front lower valence and possible replacement

[phatboy64]

So I had an issue a few weeks back with a p2002 code. One of the possible issues was a bad intercooler and that possibly a rock kicked up and punctured a hole in it. Thankfully it was not the issue. But that got me thinking about removing that valence and installing a CJC intercooler skid plate.
One shop I talked to said removing OEM valence would impact my mileage by 1 or 2 MPGs. I find that hard to believe but what do I know. So my question is “what say you”. Anyone have experience removing it and getting hit on the MPGs?

 

[44Dan44]

 

[AH64ID]

If you spend a lot of time at 55+ you will notice a loss of mpg, if you spend a lot of time around town you won’t notice it.

They do help improve airflow around and under the truck, simple aerodynamics , but many folks don’t notice much, if any, loss in mileage based on driving habits.

If you’re leveled or lifted they have less of an effect too. Their proximity to the ground is important, and why they hang so low.

So, what’s more important to you?

My personal driving uses of the truck would probably see minimal drop as I don’t spend many of my miles cruising empty at highway-interstate speeds… but I’ve never hit it on even some nasty back roads, so I’ll take what mileage it gives me… for now.

 

[phatboy64]

If you spend a lot of time at 55+ you will notice a loss of mpg, if you spend a lot of time around town you won’t notice it.

They do help improve airflow around and under the truck, simple aerodynamics , but many folks don’t notice much, if any, loss in mileage based on driving habits.

If you’re leveled or lifted they have less of an effect too. Their proximity to the ground is important, and why they hang so low.

So, what’s more important to you?

My personal driving uses of the truck would probably see minimal drop as I don’t spend many of my miles cruising empty at highway-interstate speeds… but I’ve never hit it on even some nasty back roads, so I’ll take what mileage it gives me… for now.

So I spend a lot of my milage on the highway. Probably 65%, for me safety I.e. not getting stuck on the side of the road on a Sunday is most important to me. Just trying to figure out cost/benefit.

BTW. I have over 500k on HD rams and never had a intercooler issue. So I either just answer my question or jinxed myself

 

[Crusty old shellback]

So for the Power wagon, which has a 2" factory lift and is almost level, would removing it really make a difference? Thinking of removing mine for clearance issues.

I understand the aero issue. But the PW is already lifted, and then i put taller tires on it, so it probably does more for looks than aero at this point.

On my wifes 2004 Chevy, a 44$ Z71, it didn't have the lower valance where the 2WD trucks did.

 

[AH64ID]

So for the Power wagon, which has a 2" factory lift and is almost level, would removing it really make a difference? Thinking of removing mine for clearance issues.

I understand the aero issue. But the PW is already lifted, and then i put taller tires on it, so it probably does more for looks than aero at this point.

On my wifes 2004 Chevy, a 44$ Z71, it didn't have the lower valance where the 2WD trucks did.

You would likely see minimal impact removing it.

 

[phatboy64]

So for the Power wagon, which has a 2" factory lift and is almost level, would removing it really make a difference? Thinking of removing mine for clearance issues.

I understand the aero issue. But the PW is already lifted, and then i put taller tires on it, so it probably does more for looks than aero at this point.

On my wifes 2004 Chevy, a 44$ Z71, it didn't have the lower valance where the 2WD trucks did.

So I am kind of in the same boat. I am in the process of putting a Carli 3.25 backcountry kit with 37’. So it will be 5.25” lifted in the front…so I am not sure how much it will/will not make a difference.