horrible mileage
 

I have a 97 dodge 2500. I only get about 13 mpg. I hate this! I could have bought a v10 for this lousy mileage! The auto trans. never seems to heat up. The guage will move a hair past 140 Degrees if i have a load, but usualy never moves. The truck has about 85k miles, 265 75 16 tires, starts and runs great. It has 550 lbs torque and 250 HP. 4" exhaust. I just changed the fluid and filter. So why poor mileage? What can I do?

Re:horrible mileage
 

Sounds like your thermostate is wide open which means your motor is staying very cool. Diesels get the best mileage at core temp which is about 185. Check that stat and I think you will notice a difference. Also if you have 4:10 gears and Manual, and running down the road at or above 75. this will also decrease you mileage at a lower core temp.<br><br>Trickytrae

Re:horrible mileage
 

It would help to fill out your signature so we know just what you have. The auto will cost you a little mileage. Have a camper shell? Big tires? Like Trickytrae posted 4:10 diff will cost you. Do you have boost and pyro gauges? If you had a V 10, you would be wishing for 13.<br>Michael

Re:horrible mileage
 

thanks for help. I put a piece of cardboard in front of radiator. Now the truck warms up. Will have to drive a little more to see if mileage improves.<br>

Re:horrible mileage
 

I have a '96 2500 Auto 4X4 with 4.10 and 285 tires and only get about 13MPG but I am always pulling something heavy.Often I am near the 18,000 GCVW rating and still get 11-12 MPG. My mileage went down when I had my valves adjusted. Maybe yours could go up with a valve adjustment.