Ditto. I just checked my LT285 Michelin LTX A/T2's, and the dealer pumped them to 35psi. I'm going to try 65psi towing this weekend, and go down to 40psi for daily driving. I intend on trying the chalk mark across the treads to check inflation for daily driving, though. I think 70+psi will be like ballon tires on bigfoot - unless I'm fully loaded (payload) and towing.

 

Keep the tires inflated properly, keep fresh fluids, etc. I'd switch to full synthetics in the motor, transmission, and the differentials.

Now a tuner with a gas mileage tune, intake, and exhaust would also be a very big benefit. My recomendation is to go with a VMP 93 octane mileage tune. The tune will have the same WOT performance as a 93 octane performance tune, too. I'd recommend going with a S&B because it's an enclosed design. If you want an open filter design, go with the AF1 3.0. Exhaust, I'd go with MBRP or Magnaflow or a custom set-up.

 

Keep in mind that although you may see 1-2 mpg more with this, it will never repay itself for the 1k you spent on all the mods.

But the increase in power, sound, and manliness of your truck should make it worth it.

 

YES! I'm glad he said that. Some back flow or resistance actually improves the engines performance. That is why running too large of an exhaust pipe can be bad as well.

Nothing magical. Keep the rpm's under 2000 is a good way to save on gas. When on the highway keep it under 75. Driving 65 or 70 will save a _lot_ of gas!

And you know something... these things don't cost any money! People seem to think you need to throw money at the mileage problem in order to get better mpg. Sometimes it just takes a little self control.

 

Completely agree. No one should ever be looking into modifications for just mileage gains. It'll take forever to recoup the money you spent.

 

Smoke,
The new truck looks great! I think you will find that 40 PSI is too little air pressure for everyday driving. I have run the pressures listed in my previous post for approx 35,000 miles. The tires wear dead even. Nice and flat across the tread and no cupping. I did run 70 in them when I wasn't towing and the ride was extremely harsh. It might also have something to do with the factory shocks being half assed worn out. I am currently pricing out replacements. Fully loaded, I would suggest 70 PSI. The tow is rock solid at this pressure.
Good luck.... I am jealous of your tow mirrors! The rear view must be awesome!

 

i have the same BFG rugged trail t/a's that you have and i'm currently running 35. what do you suggest for everyday driving?

 

Drive down hill only and always with the wind too your back

couldn't resist

 

Thanks for the compliment! With the 35psi in the boots now, it already rides "tough" compared to P-metrics. I guess I'll try 55psi in them tonight on the way home, and then run the 70 towing and see what happens. I ran 65psi in my Goodyear 20" on my Superduty, and they towed great and wore great, so I'm a little skeptical running higher pressure in a much lighter truck.

 

bump. just curious as to whether i can safely run 40psi or so on my stock bfg's.

 

Slick..... are your tires p series tires or are they Load range tires? There is a big difference!

 

The maximum allowed pressure will be plainly marked on the sidewall.

 

not sure. i looked on the side of the tire and didn't see anything about Lrange. BFG's website didn't have any info either. they're just the OEM BFG rugged trail TA's. i inflated them to 40psi today. we'll see how it goes.

 

From what I've heard, the AT/2's seem to like a bit more pressure then other Michelins or other brands. Might not be the case with 20's but thought I'd pass along what I've heard.

Smokewagon, what's your impression of the AT/2's so far?

 

Finding an ideal crusing speed is the key, my truck get's over 18 mpg if I set the cruise @ 67mph. Flat land in Louisiana help's out also! Once I get rolling the tall tires act like a double overdrive.