Hey y'all
Have had my 02 king ranch for 3 years now, 200,000 kms on it, bout it without any documentation. Not sure when the plugs were last done or even at all.

PROBLEM- I am only getting 400km (used to get 600km or better) on a full tank and that is hwy driving. it has never been great on gas but i just moved 5,000km and hauled a horse trailer and 12 bales the whole way. The milage drop has really got me questioning what is going on, I also have that ticking noise(chev owners joke askign if it has a deisle in her). Dont have the cash to dump into the dealership to get it examined.

What i am asking is does anyone else think this is an issue or is this norm for a truck this age. I plan on keeping this one for life, if i have to drop a new motor in it then so be it but love the power that 5.4 puts out.. any help or opinions would be appreciated!
thanks

 

First thing you need to do - RIGHT AWAY - is check the spark plug torque. This can be a symptom of loose plugs.

If you are going to do that, you might as well change them - use Motorcraft plugs, no antiseize, and 28 ft/lb.

Any OBD2 codes?

 

When was the last time you changed the fuel filter?

 

What weight oil you use??? Also can be the timing stuff on the front of engine,, cam phasers i think they call them. But i think the plugs are the best place to start.

 

No cam phasers on a 02.

 

Well was this mileage drop only with the trailer in tow?? ( just clarifying)

^^^Agreed^^^ very good place to start +1
Is the engine oil at correct levels? If not, then you might be good to change the PCV too

 

No the milage dropped after i towed the horses out here, i am thinking it may turn out to be tranny issues, she has slipped twice in me and seems like she has lost power. Overdrive up everyhill, or slows to like 80km.... not happy, hope i can get it in and fix it soon