4K miles and MPG is dropping . ..

[wrdouglas]

OK, folks . . I have a 2005 4x4 quad cab 48re with a 4. 10 re. I know, I have perhaps the worst setup for fuel economy, but it seems to be falling instead of increaseing. I drove a 200 mile trip when the truck had 1500 miles on it, and I was around 17. 8, now, same trip I am at 15. 4. I am using crusie, same temperature, speed, load, etc . . . I don't know if I have a issue with my truck or not, however it seems like I do . . I also noticed that when I get on it to pass, I blow black smoke (like unatomized diesel fuel) Now, my questions for the forum, I want to increase fuel economy, don't care about increaseing power. I realize that I can increase tire size, wheel size, or swap out rearends, but a friend of mine (ps owner) said that I can get a electronic device that increases air flow allowing a better fule burn and won't void my warranty . . . He could not remember the brand, anyone know what he is talking about? Thanks in advance . . this is a great forum, and awsome for new/1st time diesel owners.

 

[daytripper63]

If your in Calif. its the fuel.

They are refining all the good out of the fuel to try to get better emmissions. But they dont realize we are getting worse mileage and burning twice as much fuel so more emmissions

 

[klenger]

a friend of mine (ps owner) said that I can get a electronic device that increases air flow allowing a better fule burn and won't void my warranty

Almost any engine modification can void the engine warranty. I suggest that you have the dealer look at it. You may have a bad injector. Is your engine a 600 or 610? If it's an early 2005 with the 600 engine, you may need the ECM reflash which increases milage. See http://www.klenger.net/dodge/3rd-gen-reference/tsb-18-037-04_pg1.pdf for more info.

 

[Grizzly]

Also consider your air pressure. You may have picked up a nail and have a low tire. What about brands of fuel. I have been told that diesel is diesel and is the same for all major brand. I always get my best mileage with Chevron and Texaco. Be sure to get your diesel from a station that turns it over quick to avoid water. Many factors to consider and when you have done all that, then take it to the dealer as suggested by klenger. Grizzly

 

[wrdouglas]

Thanks for all the input folks. The only change that I have made, is to actually increase tire pressure form 60 to 80 thinking that would increase milage. I guess I will drop the pressure back down and see what happens . . After that I am going to the dealer . .

 

[drewRoberts]

Ive got pretty much the same set-up, except I have the 6 speed (NV5600 thank God :-laf)



my mileage is just a little bit over what you have but not by much. if I'm easy I'll top out at 18. but if there are ricers around just askin' for a sootin' I'll bottom out at 15. 5

 

[JFielding]

I have a friend who had the same problem-same setup. He added Howes Lubricator. Cleaned the injectors. Mileage came back up.



Joe