Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Fuel mileage troubleshooting...

[JGheen]

I tried a search but couldn't come up with any typical fuel mileage culprits, so I wanted to ask. I have adjusted my valves this past weekend which in the past I have found to be the typical result as to why my mileage had gone down. Well, it still is down a bit and I have no clue why.

My driving habits have been the same as well as I have done nothing to give the engine more fuel as it sits right now(no moving the plate, AFC adjust, etc. ). I am probably due for a fuel filter change but would a potentially clogged fuel filter cause bad mileage? I would think if the fuel filter was a bit clogged I would feel it in the engine but it is running smooth as it has been for a while. Oil changes are still good, analysis still coming back good. AFE is cleaned about every 2-3 months and is still pretty clean right now.

Any other typical culprits that cause mileage to go down that I have maybe missed or not thought of?



Thanks guys,



Joe

 

[ndurbin]

I don't exactly know where your located in California, but could it be possible they switched to the blended winter fuel? That knocks mileage down a bit. Since your due for a fuel filter I'd change that and see what happens from there.



Nathan

 

[JGheen]

Thanks Nathan,



It could be possible that they switched to a winter blend, do you think the gas station attendant would know? The winter blend is a mix of #1 and #2 right? What would cause that combo of fuel to be consumed more?

I try changing out the fuel filter this weekend and see what happens after I get back from my trip out to Arizona for the holiday. Not taking the truck though as it needs some more maintence before a long haul like that. Got the wife's Honda Pilot to do that driving.

Anyone else with any ideas for troubleshooting this mileage drop?



Thanks, Joe

 

[ndurbin]

Some attendants don't have a clue and then some do, might be better to ask for a supervisor/manager. Yeah it's a blend of #1 and #2. The #1 has a lower cetane rating versus the #2 and that seems to be the reason for lower mileage.



Nathan

 

[nfox]

Fuel Mileage

I would also say blended fuel will not give as good of fuel mileage. One thing that might give better mileage is setting your timing up to 16* if it isn't already. Oo.

 

[JGheen]

One thing that might give better mileage is setting your timing up to 16* if it isn't already. Oo.

I know that is definately one thing I need to get done and would improve my mileage, but I haven't had the time to do it, nor have I never done it and don't have the tools to do it. One of these days though, the engine is gonna love me for it.