I think a new cam would be a really smart buy. I think they're supposed to increase fuel economy by 2 mpg, give you faster turbo spool up, and reduce EGTs a touch.

 

Install a boost gauge, and use it.
The lowest boost to maintain speed get's the best MPG potential out of the truck.
When accelerating out of a light or stop, shortshift and keep the boost under a predetermined level.

Big Rig owner operators promote this type of driving...

 

Why? Seriously, I want to learn. I've always been told that improving the air in and the air out was a good idea?

 

It seems the diesel trucks can pull alot more air through a filter than there counter parts gas engines and the increased velocity can pull some of the oil off the filter along with the increased air. The gauze type filters seem to have more problems of holding the oil than the foam type.

The oil can stick to sensors or just plan not leave enough on the filter to hold dirt and thus allow more dirt to enter the engine.

Now there has been alot of debate on both sides if this is true or not if the filter is properly oiled to begin with. I ran one for a while and seen black crude on turbo blades, took it off and no more crude on the blades. I sure wouldn't want oil residue gumming up the inside of my intercooler either.

Some swear by gauze type filters, some swear at them!!!

 

1 Answer - All these will make your mpg go down. You will have your foot in it more to feel the power and hear the sweet sounds eminating. Trust me. If you looking for mpg, don't do it.

2 Answer - Pay more for synthetics than the fuel you save to do so.

3 Answer - Last time I rode under there, it wasn't so turbulent. Why bother, you'd have to pay for it, remove it for maintenance, and get nearly no mpg increase from it.

4 Answer - Only one that is definetly going to help so far.

5 Answer - Pay more for the tires and wheels to ever payback any fuel savings that there ever MIGHT be.

6 Answer - My truck came with these, but otherwise same as 5 Answer.

7 Answer - Capper's fuel mileage is worse (someone will have the university study link on drag). Tonneau cover if I remember is better. But you'd have to do many miles to achieve a savings. However, if you're going to pay for bed coverage anyway, and a tonneau works as good for you as a capper, the tonneau should actually yield some fuel mileage increase.

8 Answer - Why that's just silly, IMHO.

9 Answer - See 8 Answer.

What else - Frequent oil, oil filter, paper air filter changes, and fuel filter changes. Smooth driving and take what 'cha get.

- JyRO

 

You could always try an electric fan.

 

do you NEED a 3/4 ton diesel truck?

maybe your job requires it as your public profile mentions your occupation as "Consulting Agronomist travelling the US and the world helping golf courses and farmers grow things better", so i say increase your rate (a fuel surcharge if you will) and pass the cost of fuel onto the clients that require you to travel.

 

Don't let the K&N bashers out there keep you from getting one of their filters or air intakes. You can see from my signature that I've had them on both my trucks and have never had one problem with them. Still that doesn't stop some on here from voicing an opinion about a product with which they have absolutely no experience with!!! I have done an oil analysis to confirm my beliefs that my FIPK does a more than adequate job of air filtration and posted the results also. And I got piloried by some here. I will also do another at my next change and will post the results, good or bad. One thing I don't understand is why the folks that bad mouth K&N don't do the same with AFE???!!!!! It's essentially the same filter!

On a different note, we all have one thing in common here........we all own, want to own and drive Dodge trucks with the Cummins diesel engine in them. Wouldn't this sight be very boring if everyone did the same things to their trucks???? There wouldn't be much to talk about then. I mean, some go off the deep end BOMBing, some keep them 100% stock and most others fall somewhere in between. Just because I or someone has or suggests a different air intake or exhaust system or whatever than you, doesn't mean that product isn't good. Some of you all need to get over your product based biases and/or predjudices. In most parts of this country we a still free to choose what we do and when we want to do it!!!! Thanks for letting me rant a bit!!

 

Fuel mileage for a change, not top end hp.
Things that have helped mileage on my 95 automatic.
1 Timing ( I was told that 15 was good but I THINK mine is a 17)
2 injectors 215 rebuilts, Piers, ( note use the thin washers, as to lower the
spray into the bowl)
3 I have the valves set a .008 and .018 cold, I am sure to get some heat on
that one.

Things that could have helped NAPA air cleaner,large. A little exhaust work.
I have a automatic and it is stock. I use my truck mainly highway.
If it was a standard that might help or not?
All of these things may be subjective so good luck Jim

 

There have been some posts on here about a crank sensor modified to give 2 degrees more timing. Most seemed happy with the mileage improvement it gave. Do a search on Rokktech.

 

a light foot, minimizing stop and go driving as much as possible with these big trucks...getting and staying in the highest gear as often as possible...drive like ur almost out of fuel ....and last but not least BE REALISTIC...thats an 8000lb truck !! not you neighbours 2700 lb corolla

 

I agree with the light foot, but it may not be great for the automatic as that may result on lower throttle pressure. I changed my 95 from 16 to over 20 with the mods that I did to my truck. I have been driving like a old man, but when I tow I dont let the need for mileage result in a burnt transmission. Just an idea, good luck Jim

 

no doubt thats something to consider Jim...especially when towing around in town (keeping the rpms a lil higher to keep the proper pressure on the clutches and TCC) but the gentleman who was askign the original question has a 2005 6 speed....he cant bump his timing but he can keep the rpms as low as he wants to with that 6 speed

i know that driving in town drops my mileage mainly cause im in 3rd gear all the time as opposed to the overdrive...makes a big difference for me...

 

spend 40-50$ and remove your muffler, it will payoff real quick. cruising at 60-65 helps alot too

 

hey drew nice pic in ur gallery of the ford...finally the F.O.R.D. acronym has been documented on film

oh hey do u drive that mining truck for a livin??