My mileage sucks, even though its a six 300 cubic inches is rather big but theres no way I should be getting less than or about 10 miles to the gallon on the highway. Its a 1996 shortbed single cab 2WD XL. Its got air condition but I don't use that much. The motor has just a bit over 100k miles on it. Will a chip get me better gas mileage? It seems to be geared really low, 1st - 3rd gear are really low and 4th and 5th are a tad normal. I believe it says I've got a 3.73 rear end. The only thing I haul is a 400lbs motorcycle. Its a completely stock truck, does a chip, exhaust intake combo gonna get me mileage and power? Any ideas would help.

-Wes

 

Those mods are a great idea for performance, but don't expect much in the increased mileage department. It's a inefficient motor in a body shaped aerodynamically like a brick. For mpg, keeping the vehicle well maintained is the first line of defense. Beyond that, I've had good luck with synthetic lubes, electric fans, and underdrive pulleys for increasing mileage. The increased mileage will take some time to offset the cost.

 

I have a '92 4.9L F150 S-Cab 4x4 which I purchased at 98K miles. When I got it I recorded about 10/13 MPG City/hwy 75-80mph. The truck was well maintained before I got it. It has since received...

1. 48K Volt ignition coil -$46
2. Low resistance racing plug wires $65
3. Champion truck plugs $13
4. K&N FIPK $213
5. Flow Master 50 single in 3'' Dual 2.25" out muffler $302 (installed)

Total: $639
Current milage... 11/14-15 city/hghway 75-80 mph

Was it worth it... the performance is better, i.e. it has a much better throttle response than when I got it, so yes. However, I will probably not recoup the cost of parts with my increased mileage. I do like my truck that much more, though. Bottom line... buy performance parts for performance and be happy if you get any other little bonuses.

Good Luck,

Paz

 

Have you changed the o2 sensor? A pivital part for fuel mixture. Even stock, you should be doing better than 10mpg.