After market Computers and the overhead console

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Those of you out there with add on computers - does your overhead console work correctly? Mine doesn't. It shows that I'm getting MUCH better mileage than I actually am. It's off by about 4-5 mpg.

Banks says it's because their computer module actually feeds more gas in than the ECM is aware of. Sounds like it could be right but I'm just checking.

Thanks


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99 2500 QC LB 4x4 Auto, Laramie SLT, driftwood. Cummins 24v w/ Banks Stinger Plus kit, EGT and Boost gauges on A-Pillar mount, BFG 33x12. 50x16. 50, Procomp 2” stage II lift-kit, Rhino liner, Smittybilt nerf bars, Warn chrome Transformer brush guard w/Warn12000 winch, Tow Hooks, Xenon fender flares.

 

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Sorry, no answers here; just more questions-

I was thinking of ordering the parts for the trip computer and adding it on. Is the wiring harness in place or would this job be a pain?

Judging from the above post, the trip computer decodes fuel signals from the ECM, rather than using a true fuel flow meter. Is this correct?

Years ago I know you could get aftermarket fuel flow & mpg meters- perhaps these are still available but I am reluctant to add any plumbing into my fuel system.

Thanks- Mike

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2k 3500 QC SLT, 4x4, 24v, auto, 3. 42LS, mopar flaps, diamond plate toolbox.

 

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Mine is optimistic by 1-3 mpg. The error varies according to how I drive, tow, etc. I too would like to know how these things actually work.

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1999 Quad cab 2500, SB, SLT, 4X4, 5-speed, 3. 54, tow and camper package, Lance 820 camper, Lance cabover stabilizers, Rancho 9000s, Airlift airbags

 

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I checked with the parts department to add it to my last truck ( a 97) and the wiring harness alone was outrageous. I think if I have the dealer install it, it was in the neighborhood of $2K


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Rick G - Phoeniz, AZ
99 2500 QC LB 4X4 5-speed
3. 54 LSD, E-brake, ISSPRO Boost & EGT gauges, 285/75 16 on AR Atlas
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2000 Hitchhiker II 33ft 5er triple slide

 

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There are a couple of aftermarket fuel flow meters available. One tells you gallons per hour, and the other can be made to give you miles per gallon, when it is hooked up to a GPS. They are made by a company called Floscan, and they are in Seattle. The units are usually used in a marine application, and the problem with mounting them in a truck is getting the pulsation dampeners higher than the fuel pump, as they rely on trapped air to cushion the fuel pulses. Also the bumping and vibration of a truck are different than that of a 26' and up boat.
They are much cheaper than the DC unit, and will give you total fuel consumed, as well as engine hours, RPM, and MPG/ GPH... if you can mount it the right way.

 

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I can vouch for the quality and accuracy of the Flowscan stuff- used it in boats.

I did not know they made units for trucks; maybe I'll investigate that. Still kinda hate to add more plumbing, though.

Mike

 

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My computer consistently displays 1-2 MPG higher than actual mileage calculated after fillup. It is a good thing the fuel minder still goes off at 1/8 of a tank if you are trying to push the limit on a tank using the DTE estimate.

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'99 2500HD QC SLT 24V ISB EGT/Boost Guage 5spd 3. 54 LSD Pullin' Alpenlite 25 + 2 5whl
MPG Empty 21, Towing 13