Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) pwr and milage

[Tractorat]

I just got back from a 4kmile trip from seattle to arizona and back. I have an 02 automatic with 3. 54. I guess Im a little dissapointed in my truck. I had to really wind out at 2400rpm to maintain 60 mph out of OD. When I used OD, it didnt really have a lot of power. Miliage was only about 11 or 12 for the trip. I think I would have done better with a 5 or 6 speed, but my trailer only weighs about 3500lb loaded. sure didnt like all those other rv's passing me. I didnt want to add any aftermarket stuff, wanted to stay stock (warranty etc, and want my truck to last me at least 10 years) but I think I will look into an EZ. What kind of improvement would that give me, and would it hurt the milage at all ? (shorten the life of the engine or transmission ?

 

[Car_nut57]

We have several customers who really like the Western Diesel Turbo RPM module. It has 3 settings adjustable with a pin connector in the box. This unit is 65hp and 188lb/ft at the rear wheels and helps eliminate turbo lag with smooth power. Also you might consider an exhaust system and high flow air filter to help your truck breath. seems to me you should be able to keep your truck in OD with a 3500# trailer in tow. It would also be a good idea to install gauges especially for towing so you can see what the trans and EGTs are doing. Just a few suggestions which might help your mileage and performance.

 

[Bob Wagner]

MBuck, come on out to one of our many get togethers, you can many different modification that are very safe.



I tow a 30' 5er and its very easy to maintain 70+ on all of our passes.



If you have any questions, send me a PM or check out www.nwbombers.com



you will enjoy yourself

 

[Gary - K7GLD]

HMMmmm - only 1700+ miles on mine, but have about HALF those miles towing about 7000 lbs of 5th wheel and gear - and over some of the steeeeper Sierra grades to boot. No problems with power or economy - have never reset the mileage computer since the truck left the lot with 40 miles on it - and overall fuel mileage to date, with all the towing, is 16 mpg...



'Course, that IS with the 6-speed - but ALSO with DOUBLE your load - so something does seem wrong with your fuel mileage and power - I am EASILY able to pull in OD in all but the steeper grades, as long as I pay attention and keep my speed and revs up...



Hope you get it checked out and improved...

 

[andrewkoperdak]

I have a 5spd standard cab with 3. 54 rear and i get 15. 5 pulling my trailer of about the same weight as yours. I just changed my injectors so that number might have changed.

I get better mileage because my truck weighs only 6000 pounds empty. I believe that a Quad Cab weight closer to 7000 pouns. This would explain why your mileage differs from mine.

 

[Turbo Trucker]

Wow! I have a 5 spd, and have had my 6,000 pound trailer up to 100, it wouldn't go any faster than that. Of course it is pretty aerodynamic when unloaded. I usually get around 13 mpg running around 80, and have gone down to 7. 5 mpg fully loaded pulling 22,000 pounds.