Howdy, I got to thinking as to why there is so much difference in mpg and performance in our trucks. Yep we have numberous configurations but I think its also how we drive our trucks. In fact I think that a lot of people could use some fine tuning tips in shifting and driving their manual trans trucks properly. This is a gas motor drivers nightmare, the fact that you just can't mash down the pedel and rip tires. No as we go through our 6 forward gears we need to allow each one to spin down, I like it cause you feel that power serge as you mash down the pedel after engagment. This is kinda like a double clutch without the double pedel push. My trucks have liked this treatment and have performed well for me. I think that instead of having to learn this over a decade of diesel driving that Dodge dealers have someone teach the buyers how to drive their trucks. What do you all think?
Nimrod

 

It did take me a few trips to "learn" how to drive my truck. 200-400 rpm doesn't mean much in gas engine, but can make a world of difference with a diesel. Took a bit of playing to find the "sweet spots".

 

These trucks do have a sweet spot for best mileage.....my best mileage is below 60 MPH not towing.....worst mileage is above 70 MPH.....my power band is 1800-2100 RPM's

Towing heavy it doesn't matter mileage drops......but its nice to have the power to pull heavy loads......unlike a gas motor I still get better mileage with a diesel and can pull twice the weight

 

This is my first diesel truck - I've had it for a year and half. Didn't take me a decade to break the code on how to drive her. If you hammer it under load, she'll guzzle fuel (still not rivaling my old gasser BTW). Treat her gently without a load on her back and she'll be a fuel miser.

I'm sure there are driving schools for those so inclined; not sure the dealer is in the best position for that task. Then again, I'm not over impressed about the quality of education students fresh out of drivers ed classes have anyways.

 

Just back from 7500 mile double cross country trip. Best loaded mileage = 15.4 @ 55 mph. Best unloaded mileage = 20.6 @ 55 mph. For every 5 mph bump up in speed, the mileage drops about 1-2 mpg.

 

Before the GSK I had a definite sweet spot, where boost and fuel were machted near perfectly. There were times when climbing grades on the interstate that putting my foot closer to the floor would just slow the truck down more. I like having a wider sweet spot now, but some how I think I could maybe use a LITTLE MORE.

 

I haven't done any mods to the sig truck. Haven't had to.

 

I drive mine with a



And a look in the rear view to see if there are any BLUE LIGHTS






: Eddie :