Since I first purchased my Explorer, I have set a goal of 30 MPG.

On a trup last week from Sarasota to Atlantam about 575 milesm I achieved that goal. I made the trip on only 18 gal of gas ( Amoco regular 87 ). The trip was a no rush trip and I decided to stay UNDER 70 MPH. The trip average ( determined by GPS )m was 67,8 MPH.

The mileage for this leg of the trip was 32.1 MPG.

I anxiously await the return trup next Wednesday , not only to escape this God awful overcrowded town, as well as the COLD weatherm but alsp to see what the return mileage will be.

You should get about 35 MPG on the return trip.
Everyone knows you get better mileage going DOWN south than you do going UP north.

The only way I'm gonna get 30 mpg is to be towed somewhere!!! I just did a round trip to Philly (330 miles) and averaged 16.5mpg. All except about 25 miles was highway mileage at 75-80mph (I stayed with traffic). The best I have EVER done was when the truck was brand new and had no modifications to it whatsoever, and that was about 20mpg. The only comfort I can take is that we have a gas war going on in town between Wal-Mart and Sheetz, and right now I'm only paying .77/gal :D

Back from Atlanta. The return trip mileage was 580 miles on 18 gal of Amoco regulat - or 32.2 MPG.

The only difference ( other than going South this time ) was that there was no AC used at all on this leg of the trip. Also, the speed average was 71,4 MPH.

580 miles on one tank? what in the name of highschool football!! thats crazy....maybe if i had a 50 gallon tank id get that kinda mileage but not by what i have now no way no how. oh well. congrats on your gas sipper

what did u do to get that kinda milage?!! i did 55mph from LI to connecticut and the best i got was 18!!!!!

Originally posted by LiKuiD
580 miles on one tank? what in the name of highschool football!! thats crazy....maybe if i had a 50 gallon tank id get that kinda mileage but not by what i have now no way no how.

Me too. I get about 280 miles/tank, with a 19.8 gallon tank. That's just over 14 miles a gallon. :( How big is the tank in a '99, Al?

Hmmm, I guess that this is a good proof that those tree-hugging hippies have been smokin' too much of something. Granted, I've gotten at best 23 mpg on my '97 Mountaineer V8, but I guess that a "barn door" can get pretty decent mileage. So, how did you get past 30, besides taking it easy? You have to have done some exhaust work and air intake work. I never got past 19 until I replaced the air silencer on my airbox with a 4" dryer hose. Best $0.30 I ever spent.

Please share with us your secret for geting 30 mpg. I've been averageing 14.9 mpg over the past year. My best has been 22. Let us in on the secret.

I got 18 once. . .back when I was stock

Now I'm lucky if I get 11 :rolleyes:

i get about 260-270 per tank (i think i have an 18 gal tank) which gives me about 14 mpg (and, yup, thats highway.) oh well, if i wanted good gas mileage, id get that little electric honda tin can :p

What in the name of highschool football? LOL

Originally posted by diablo5969


Me too. I get about 280 miles/tank, with a 19.8 gallon tank. That's just over 14 miles a gallon. :( How big is the tank in a '99, Al?

The tank is a 20 gal tank.

Originally posted by tbomb
i get about 260-270 per tank (i think i have an 18 gal tank) which gives me about 14 mpg (and, yup, thats highway.) oh well, if i wanted good gas mileage, id get that little electric honda tin can :p

I wanted good mileage and I get it in my nice bug truck. I am pleased.....

That's depressing. Same size tank, over twice the mileage :(

Originally posted by diablo5969
That's depressing. Same size tank, over twice the mileage :(

Remember guys, I am over twice your age also and that has a lot to do with driving style and subsequest mileage.

My son, age 29 drives my truck the same trip as I do and he gets at best 23 MPG on the highway.

I could settle for 23 :)

By the way, I hope you're a little more than twice my age. If you were twice my age, that'd make you 34 with a 29 year old son ;)

Originally posted by ChewieM16
what did u do to get that kinda milage?!! i did 55mph from LI to connecticut and the best i got was 18!!!!!

The following is a list of modifications that have resulted in the mileage reported on my 99 4.0 SOHC:
Mobil 1 5 w 30 synthetic motor oil
Mobil 1 ATF in auto tranny ( a complete change )
Mobil 1 in the 3.73 rear end
KKM Tru Rev intake
Custom cat back exhaust system
Remove roof rack
Many coats of Zaino polish
Tire pressure 40 psig
Explorer Express X Spec air dam
Amoco 87 octane gas
Secondary tranny filter ( don’t know if this helps )

Driving habits help also:
No race like starts
Windows up always - usually with AC on
Keep top speed at or below 70 MPH

Well now aldive, there's young, and then there's YOUNG. 34 with a 29 year old kid, that's young even for Georgia. Of course I'm assuming you were refering to double of someone a little older (I hope).

My average milage is around 13 mpg, and that is in atlanta too.

A recent trip to N Central Florida of 450 miles yielded 27.2 MPG.

The GPS said the average speed was 71.2. The Explorer was loaded with 4 adu;ts, 8 scuba tanks and the ancillary sive equipment.

Down from the 30 MPG running empty and slower, but still acceptable.

I jsut ran a trip from lafayette In., to the smokey mountains to go backpacking in my 97XSport, I seemed to average about 17.5. Congrats on the 30 mpg though.


augie13

My last tank of gas yielded 14.2 mpg.

I expect you all to bow in my presence

:rolleyes:

You must have 2 wheek drive and what axel, 2.73 or something.
I could'nt get 30 mpg going over a cliff.
18 to 20 hgwy is my best.

Originally posted by Bill Kemp
You must have 2 wheek drive and what axel, 2.73 or something.
I could'nt get 30 mpg going over a cliff.
18 to 20 hgwy is my best.

Indeed its a 2 wheel drive, but the rear is a 3.73.

Originally posted by Bill Kemp
I could'nt get 30 mpg going over a cliff.

LOL, that's hilarious :bounce:

I have a 2k road trip this weekend; it will be the first mileage test for the lowered truck and the Ansoil 0w30 oil.

I wish i got that kind of mileage. I get 250 miles out of my tank and that is highway driving and not going any faster then 70.

So wait.... going between 80-90 won't give you good gas mileage?!:rolleyes:

Al,

Keep us posted on the next road trip. I want to know where to place my next derrick to keep mine running. I'm sure OPEC loves all of us others. Conrats, btw. I'm pushing to get 25 on the highway and I've come close but I've got 3.07 gearing on 2wd.

Back from the 2k road trip, Results……..
All data from GPS
Average speed – 71.8 ( including some slow I85 traffic in Atlanta and some dirt road time
Average MPG – 25.7

First long trip with the lowering kit installed; overall, this is the best mod yet. The handling was terrific.

Note" the AC was off during the Georgia portion of the trip, its damn cold there yet.

Originally posted by aldive
Note" the AC was off during the Georgia portion of the trip, its damn cold there yet.

Your tellin me! It was 43 degrees when I woke up this morning!!! :mad:

Originally posted by aldive


Remember guys, I am over twice your age also and that has a lot to do with driving style and subsequest mileage.

My son, age 29 drives my truck the same trip as I do and he gets at best 23 MPG on the highway.

You say the best your son gets is 23 on the highway but you get at best 32. So can you enlighten us youngsters how we should drive for better MPG. Like acceleration, top speed, windows, A/C, vent, etc...

Originally posted by ok89
So can you enlighten us youngsters how we should drive for better MPG. Like acceleration, top speed, windows, A/C, vent, etc...

I drive with windows up always, most often with AC on,

I do not race to get on/off the highway ramps. I use cruise control always ( highway ).

The key is smooth and steady as she goes.

Just got back from a trip to the ranch near Atlanta.

The trip up ( 534 moles ) resulted in 30,25 MPG and the return trip ( 514 miles ) resulted in 28,8 MPG.

Its great to get over 500 miles on a tank.......

Note: all this travel was in 94 F plus temperature.

what speed do you keep cruise control on?

The average speed, determined via GPS on the trip up was 67.3 MPH ( die to horrible rain ) and on the return 70.6 MPH.

87.3?!?!??!?!? and you get 30 mpg. Thats amazing.

Originally posted by ok89
87.3?!?!??!?!? and you get 30 mpg. Thats amazing.

Oops... a typo, it should have read 67.3, sorry.

I wanted good mileage and I get it in my nice bug truck. I am pleased.....

that was a funny typo, AL

btw, how do you get the quotes to include the "originally posted by" line?

Down in te bottom right corner of each post it says Quote. Click that.

Finally hit 33 MPG.

On a recent trip from Sarasota to Marathon ( Florida Keys ), I managed to get 33 MPG.

Average speed was 62.5 MPH. However, about 2/3 of the trip was at 75 MPH; then the spped droped drastically due to heavy rain in the Miami area and the speed limit in the Keys.

I have not refueled on the return trip, so I have no data for that leg.

what in the world??!!! i couldn't get over 19 mpg in my X if my life depended on it!!! my driving habits are too agressive. i do almost all freeway driving. agressive off the line. drive over 75mph on the freeways unless traffic. when i go to the pump, i calculate about 320 miles and fill under 19 gallons. it will be really hard, but i'm going to try to drive a few tanks real conservatively and see what happens. the 19mpg that i got was the first few times that i drove my X. after then, it was all downhill.

Originally posted by baehan
i do almost all freeway driving. agressive off the line. drive over 75mph on the freeways unless traffic.

You just summed up the reason many get less than ideal fuel mileage.

Have you done any mods that will help: synthetic fluids, KKM, cat back, etc.?

Good luck.....

no mods yet. i'll be getting the intake w/ piping and the exhaust soon. how much do synthetic fluids help? i was thinking about that. how much more is maintenance if i go synthetic? cost?

Just returned from a round trip to the rancj 1999 miles. The mileage going up was 29,8 MPG and I havn't calculated the return mileage.

How many miles are on your truck?

Originally posted by ok89
How many miles are on your truck?

66k

what should a 98 AWD v8 yield??

Hey Al, you ever thought of getting (if they make them) a fiberglass hood? They weigh next to nothing, and your stock hood is rather heavy. Maybe that much weight loss will do you some good.

No I have no thought of a hood replacement. I am not as concerned with weigh since I often canny 12 or so scuba tanks and extra people.

Hi Al,
Does Mobil make the Mobil 1 ATF with Mercon V spec? I have been looking for that about 5 years now.

Shane

Originally posted by 98EBV8
Hi Al,
Does Mobil make the Mobil 1 ATF with Mercon V spec? I have been looking for that about 5 years now.

Shane

Both Mobil 1 and Amsoil ATF can be used where Mercon V is specified. I have been for years.

Originally posted by aldive
I am not as concerned with weigh since I often canny 12 or so scuba tanks and extra people.Maybe it is something you should look into. I remember reading that you keep up with NASCAR, every notice how much attention they pay to weight?

A fiberglass hood coupled with a fiberglass rear roll pan (you're lowered, it'd look good too) would yield some seriouis weight loss. The hood is pretty heavy, and the bumper is really heavy.

Tire/wheel combo can make a huge difference also. A set of larger wheels, but ones that are also lighter, will obviously allow smaller, lighter tires. Lessening the amount of weight the engine has to turn can make the biggest differences. Another thought along those lines would be a lightweight driveshaft.

Originally posted by yob_yeknom
Tire/wheel combo can make a huge difference also. A set of larger wheels, but ones that are also lighter, will obviously allow smaller, lighter tires. Lessening the amount of weight the engine has to turn can make the biggest differences. Another thought along those lines would be a lightweight driveshaft.

If you want the best tire/wheel combo, Al would have to go with the narrowest tire possible. Think road bike vs. mountain bike. Large, light but also narrow wheels with a tiny, itty-bity tire would be the best for milage. My fat 275/55 tires definitely do not help with milage.

Hey Al, I just noticed om your website that you got your degrees in Micro. Same here. So you're a glutton for punishment also, huh.

30 MPG, DAMN THAT'S IMPRESSIVE. I've got a bone stock 94 4x4 with the 3.27's. I average 13 in town and 19 highway. The best I've every done is 24 mpg, and that was keeping it at 65 mph. That's not bad for a stocker with 100k on her though. Just hoping the tranny doesn't go like I keep hearing about.

You must have a Holy Grail. Don't get it totaled. You will NEVER get that again. :eek:

I tried. I really, really tried. I drove as conservatively as I could. Never revving past 2500 rpm, no suden starts or stops. Nice and smooth driving. Most of it was in the city, so the milage couldn't be that good, but I averaged 13.8 mpg. What's going on here? When I drive normally, I get 16 mpg.

Have you made any modifications that lead to better mileage?

When mine was bone stock, I got 20-21 MPG at highway speeds.

Next stage of economy modifications will incluse the following:

(1) Granetelli MAF
(2) Diablo Delta chip
(3) replace belt driven fan with an electric one

Then who knows whats next......

I'm up to 15.6 mpg now! That's the highest it's been since I started keeping track! :)

Al,

I've done most of the same mods you have. Intake, exhaust, TB, chip, full synthetics, etc. On long trips I have gotten above 20, but not by much. I have even taken off the roof rack. I'm sure the extra wide tires don't help, but at higher speed, wind resistance makes up over 90% of friction rather than the static friction of the tires. Not sure what I'm doing to give such low milage. I'll keep trying. I'll be driving up to Tucson several times this coming month, so I can keep track of long distance milage.

Originally posted by DocVijay
I've done most of the same mods you have. Intake, exhaust, TB, chip, full synthetics, etc. On long trips I have gotten above 20, but not by much. I have even taken off the roof rack. I'm sure the extra wide tires don't help, but at higher speed, wind resistance makes up over 90% of friction rather than the static friction of the tires. Not sure what I'm doing to give such low milage. I'll keep trying. I'll be driving up to Tucson several times this coming month, so I can keep track of long distance milage.

First of all, I do not have a TB mod nor a chip ( yet, the Diablo Delta is in the works ).

What speed do you drive on long trips?

Wider tires definately hurt.

Further, I have the SOHC and I feel it is a much more efficient motor.

Yep the SOHC is more efficient. I usually cruise at 65-70 on long trips. I always make sure I have plenty of time, so I'm in no hurry. The X turns into a real brick at higher speeds anyway. I don't think the TB has any effect on mpg, and the chip (in theory) should help a bit. I usually just set cruise control and just go for a whole tank, so I'm not accelerating and slowing that much.

Well, I am leaving Sunday for a week at the ranch. We shall see what she gets on the drive to Georgia this time.

I am going to run the tires at 40psig this time. No other changes.

Aldive,

I agree driving habits make a difference, and the 40PSI will help also, but I have to ask how you are determining the mileage on a trip. If you are measuring it on a single, or even two tanks, it isn't accurate at all. There is no way you can fill to the same point on two consecutive tank fills. Check the mileage cumulative over at least 5 tanks, and I'll say you are reporting accurately.

By the way, I consistently get around 24.5 on a trip, keeping it under 70 MPH. The last one was a little over 2300 miles round trip to Southern Calif. Averaged 24.3 for the entire trip (total miles / total gas)

Ed

Now Al, rmember that it's possible to have too much tire pressure. It may adversely affect handling and they will also be more prone to blowouts. What do you have them at now?

As for my X, I was looking over my records, and right after I installe my exhaust, I was getting 15-16 mpg in the city. Now, for the past 3 tanks, it's been 12-13 mpg in the city with no changes. There's something going on here.

I have run 40 psig before with no ill results; just good mileage,

Don't most X's already have a light driveshaft??
my '94 has an aluminum one.

Originally posted by aldive
40 psig

I know what 40 PSI means, but what's 40 PSIG?

Its gauge pressure. Physics 101.

Originally posted by GenerationX
Don't most X's already have a light driveshaft??
my '94 has an aluminum one. So your's has no rust on it?

Just returned from a roundtrip to the ranch. Got 20.1 on the way up at an average speed of 68.9 MPH. Have not filled up upom return but the odomoter reads 517 miles and there is about 1/8 tank left.

I am pleased.

Quoting Aldive: "Just returned from a roundtrip to the ranch. Got 20.1 on the way up at an average speed of 68.9 MPH. Have not filled up upom return but the odomoter reads 517 miles and there is about 1/8 tank left. "

if you got 20.1 mpg, and your odometer says 517 miles, then that means you got a 25 gallon tank, if not bigger. unless you changed your stock gas tank, something's not right.

1/8 tank left after 517 miles. i'm sorry, but that's just not believeable.

aldive, I don't understand why you're using your GPS to measure distance and average speed. Do you have some kind of GPS that can measure travelled distance (arc length) rather than "as the crow flies" distance? Why not just use your odometer and a watch?

Originally posted by 99Mounty
Quoting Aldive: "Just returned from a roundtrip to the ranch. Got 20.1 on the way up at an average speed of 68.9 MPH. Have not filled up upom return but the odomoter reads 517 miles and there is about 1/8 tank left. "

if you got 20.1 mpg, and your odometer says 517 miles, then that means you got a 25 gallon tank, if not bigger. unless you changed your stock gas tank, something's not right.

1/8 tank left after 517 miles. i'm sorry, but that's just not believeable.

It was a tired eyed typo; should read 30.1 MPG. This has been repeated quite a dew times.

Speed definitely kills gas mileage, the relationship between speed and gas mileage is not 1:1. The formula for energy (gas burning) says
Energy= (1/2) X (Mass) X (Speed squared.)
That means if you go from 70MPH to 80MPH you use 30% more gas. It also means its a lot more effective to decrease your speed then decrease your weight.

sorry for gettin my nerd on like that but I am an Engineering student

Originally posted by Abominous95XLT
Speed definitely kills gas mileage, the relationship between speed and gas mileage is not 1:1. The formula for energy (gas burning) says
Energy= (1/2) X (Mass) X (Speed squared.)
That means if you go from 70MPH to 80MPH you use 30% more gas. It also means its a lot more effective to decrease your speed then decrease your weight.

sorry for gettin my nerd on like that but I am an Engineering student

So very true....

I have shown a signigficient difference in mileage going from 72-75 to 65-68 MPH.

Speed kills....

For latest mileage data see... http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=494872#post494872

4x2 vs. 4x4 that is the difference between the guys with the mid-teen mpg trucks and the high-twenty mpg wagons.

When I returned from the ranch today, UPS had left a box containing my new Granatelli MAF.

Will install in the morning and do a road test.

Originally posted by aldive
When I returned from the ranch today, UPS had left a box containing my new Granatelli MAF.

Will install in the morning and do a road test.

i thought they only made the granatelli one for the OHV? besides, ive heard a lot of negative things about the granatelli mafs (i dont remember exactly what i heard, but i remember it was bad enough to just keep in mind that i shouldnt get one) -- any thoughts?

i know troll and blk mk8 can get other brands for the SOHC.

YES, you can get one for a SOHC. I got mine from Performance Products ( with a 15% discount ).

If you believe everything somebody tells you.....

Originally posted by aldive
YES, you can get one for a SOHC. I got mine from Performance Products ( with a 15% discount ).

If you believe everything somebody tells you.....

i love that perf. prods. 15% off (i just got the edelbrock shocks.)

i dont always believe everything that i hear, but if im gonna pay upwards of $300-$400 for an maf, that most people (imcluding myself) claim has negligible effects anyway, i wanna get one from a company that has a good reputation, but ill just wait till you get yours and see how you like it; maybe youll change mine and some other peoples minds.

I have NO interest in changing anyone's mind I am getting the MAF in my quest for fuel economy.

Originally posted by tbomb
i love that perf. prods. 15% off (i just got the edelbrock shocks.)

Is it just 15% off of everything? What is this deal you two talk of?

I get around 15 or so im my truck, just like pretty much everyone else does. I was just looking out the window at my 91 Ex and i think i realized why they get bad mileage. My truck is shaped like a Cinder Block. There are almost no rounded corners at all on the first gen explorers. Its like ford designed it and THEN put it a wind tunnel, only to realize it was as areodynamic as a School bus, then they got lazy and sold it anyway. Oh whel, i still love the truck and dont mind filling it up every day.

Just returned from a weeklong trip to the Atlanta area and the friggen cold.

Anyway due to recent eye surgery, my son did all the driving ( a scary thought indeed ). The first leg was Sarasota to Atlanta ( 512 miles ) and as determined via GPS, our average speed was 84.7 and the mileage dropped to 24.7 MPG. Speed kills…..

On the next leg of the trip we went to a family Christmas party in South Georgia ( and back to Atlanta ). We averaged 81.7 MPH and mileage went to 22.3 MPG. I wonder if the gas obtained in GA was some winter blend.

Next leg of the trip was from Atlanta to Telleco, NC, for a jeeping trail run ( my son, not me ). He averaged 62 MPH and got 19.7 MPG.

The return trip to Sarasota netted 85,1 MPH and 18.2 MPG. Speed kills…….

It will be back to good mileage on the next trip in early January with me driving; he drives like a bat out of hell at all times.

If my X ever got 30mph, even when it was stock, first thing I would do is pop the hood and change the injectors and then the fuel pump - because something would be wrong. They would have to be clogged and not spraying enough fuel, thus tearing up something.

Now, I have everything against me for good mileage - large injectors, engine mods, weight, wide tires, etc. But then again, I believe what my ole' grand-pappy used to say: "If you can't afford the gas, you don't need the car." :chug: :p hehe - always loved pappy's old sayings...


Congrats on the mileage. When I want that kind of mileage, I drive the wife's car...

Explorer Express X Spec air dam and X Spec lowerin kit.

I think a couple HUGE points are playing in favor for Aldive here.

#1 Being driving style. Do you use the "Egg between the Foot/Pedal style Al ??

#2 AERODYNAMICS !!! Al's X has an AIR DAM and is LOWERED. How much difference(s) did you notice after installing these (2) items Al ??

What type Cat back system are you running ??

Also, what size/brand tires are you running ??

What about a gear drop to 3.27s or 3.08s in your quest for MPG ?? Anyone with 4.0s running these gears (or higher) ??

"Just returned from a roundtrip to the ranch. Got 20.1 on the way up at an average speed of 68.9 MPH"

First you say this....which the 20.1 is actually supposed to be 30.1 to you

"Next leg of the trip was from Atlanta to Telleco, NC, for a jeeping trail run ( my son, not me ). He averaged 62 MPH and got 19.7 MPG."

then you say this and that speed kills the MPG.....

what was the factor that changed the MPG down to 19.7 when going 62 MPH, when you got 30.1 going 68.9 MPH, almost 7 MPH faster yet you somehow got more than 10 MPG going faster

It has a lot to do with the way one gets to speed, ie, rapid accelleration vs easy accelleration.

Driving style....

Do you use the "Egg between the Foot/Pedal style Al ??

Aldive, or whomever chooses to respond:

I'm looking for ways to inprove mileage (just like everyone else here, I see) and you have many different things listed that you've done, but what do you think made the most difference? Which mod gave you the biggest jump in mileage? ...other than less speed cuz I'm already working on that ;) Thanks, Chris

Single items add a little but the real boost is the synergistic effect of all the mods working together.

The first thing I would suggest doing is a complete fluid change to synthetic.

Good luck and keep us posted......

Aren't you supposed to keep the SOHC at about 3400 RPMs while acclerating since that is the torque peak? I know that I can accelerate upto 55 MPH or so easily without breaking 2K, but 3,400 gets me there a lot faster ;)

Okay Aldive, you suggest I start with the synthetics... which fluids need to be replaced and what brand/grade/type do you recommend?

The consencus seems to be that either Mobil 1 or Amsoil are the way to go. I have Mobil 1 tranny oil fluid and engine oil. I use Amsoil in the differential.

Originally posted by Coke734
Okay Aldive, you suggest I start with the synthetics... which fluids need to be replaced and what brand/grade/type do you recommend?

I used Amsoil 0w30 for all previous tests; I am now ising Amsoil 5w20 ro see what it yields ( no data uet ).

I use Mobile 1 in the tranny as well as the rear end. Will be changing to Amsoil soon.

Just back from an 1100 mile run to Atlanta. The trip up yielded 28,57 MPG and the return netted 27.50.

I saw no difference with the 5w20 oil on this test.

Here is an easy way to get 30mpg: transplant a motor from a civic si and let it idle while you are driving down hill the entire trip. LOL.

best of luck.

and i felt gay for the entire tank of gas...now i'm back to driving like a man.

After driving 5 tanks (it took that long for computer to adjust) like a grandpa, my friends called me that when they rode with me, I ended up gaining 2 mpg to get 17.5 mpg... I feel totally stupid when driving like that, but I guess I'm getting used to it. I'll have to see if gas prices drop more before I decide if I'll switch back to 'normal' driving, stay granny-style, or maybe a mix.

Is your name fred or barney! because without someone pushing you from behind or using there feet i am overwhelmed at 30+ miles on any SUV. I say show me the money!. I am just doing the math here and it don't add up to to even 25 per gallon. :rolleyes: :p

Originally posted by buckdropper
!. I am just doing the math here and it don't add up to to even 25 per gallon. :rolleyes: :p

..... and what math is that?

My son drives this tiny piece of chevy called a "GEO metro" Sticker says 42 miles to the gallon on the open road. He gets just a tad over 32 to the gallon. Car weighs 10 pounds soaking wet. This is where it just don't add up. (the math). He drives like an old lady on prozak and is a money miser (hince the metro). I am not despelling your post i am just trying to make it all add up and well... it's really not. The math man the math....:D . I see you are a person of many posts and have a vast knowledge of the X, I have just purchased one (used) and am scared to death now waiting for the tranny to fall apart...

Aldive doesn't let his rpms get over 2000, so if you consider that, you'll see that it is entirely possible with his driving style and his mods. Driving style has more to do with gas mileage than anything. Aldive will tell you the same thing.

Originally posted by explortainment
and i felt gay for the entire tank of gas...now i'm back to driving like a man. LOL! Only someone from Philly would say that (I'm orig. from South Jersey; 10 minutes from the bridges).

I was between 23-24 on the highway while doing 70-75 the entire time, including tolls and fully floored from the booth. Fully synthetic and well tuned. If I drop to 60-65 w/ no mashing I bet I could hit 25-26. My X is empty and well waxed too. Tires were on the firm side though at 35psi.

Originally posted by JDraper
I'm only paying .77/gal :D

DAMN! I'm paying $1.99 right now at the cheapest place I can find and I'm stoked.

Originally posted by QuikSilver
DAMN! I'm paying $1.99 right now at the cheapest place I can find and I'm stoked.

Paid $1.39 last nite, they keep dropping :D

We're still floating around $1.50 here, sloooooowly dropping though

About $1.30ish in Atlanta

Lucky me living in cali... and on the coast, most exspensive gas than anywhere else.

Just returned from a long weekend trip to Atlanta. The trip up netted 30.88 MPG at avg speed of 71.6. The return trip netted 30.17 at 72.4 MPH avg speed.

The electric fan does indeed allow for better mileage.

Impressive. I assume you didn't have any cooling problems. Did your temp gauge act any differently than it did with the stock fan?

Monitored the coolant temp with my OBD II scanner - it never left 194 F. The tranny temp ran between 150 and 160 depending on ambient temp.

So, with the stock fan, were you also running about 194 degF?

Yes

What's the best milage ayone's gotten with 4x4?

I've noticed that a wax has been mentioned a few times. Does a good waxing cut down on air resistance that much? If so, I guess I shoulkd at lewast wash all the mud off before my next trip. :D

Just back from a 1200 mile road trip. Averaged a hair over 30 MPG for the entire trip.

I will be repeating this trip in a few weeks amd plan on running Mobil 1 0 W 20 oil on that one.

Al that's quite amazing. I can add 2 tanks of gas together and not get that. Although I did get 20 MPG from WV to Murphy, NC and that was going threw the Appalican Mnts and Smokey Mnts. I was pretty pumped up about that. Windows down, no AC and cruise control all the way.

You will net better mileage, as well as a more comfortable ride, by using the AC and the windows up.

Well my AC only works on high so I just cruise with the windows down and my hair blowing in the breeze :D

I am wondering how much affect ( negative ) the windshild wipers have on mileage.

The cowl covers that Lund makes might be a good idea if only they made one for my 99.

Opinions.....

I have noticed that windows up and AC on do give the best results in mileage, but the difference in my Ex is marginal at best. I get around 21 mpg with windows up, around 19.5-20.5 with windows down. So, wipers would have an even lower effect on wind resistant and affection towards overall mpgs.

Al you could remove the wipers for a trip, (relying on Rain-X) and store them in your Explorer if you needed to put them on for a rainstorm. The only problem I can think of is that it may be illegal to run without wipers.

I plan on doing exactly that, thanks.

Exactly HOW MANY coats of Zaino do you have on your truck anyway? That's gotta be the secret!
Karl

Since you have XM, you could remove your radio antenna? What about the roof rack cross bars? Taking the passanger side mirror off :D We could strip your car down:p Replace the fullsize spare with a doughnut....

Originally posted by IAmTodd
Since you have XM, you could remove your radio antenna? What about the roof rack cross bars? Taking the passanger side mirror off :D We could strip your car down:p Replace the fullsize spare with a doughnut....

If I remove the antenna ( it has been shortened ), how would I receive local news on FM? This is not an option,

I need all the mirrors I can get, Not an option to remove,

Strip my truck and go to dentist ( j/k ). Not an option,

I like a real spare. Not an option.

Thanks for the ideas, however, I still use this truck daily and like my creature xomforts. I do want the best mileage possible, but will not go radical to achieve it

Forget the 30 miles a gallon - the price of gas is the more unbelieveable of the numbers. The price here in the SF bay area "always" hovers around $2.00 a gallon.:mad:

Originally posted by thecos2002
Forget the 30 miles a gallon - the price of gas is the more unbelieveable of the numbers. The price here in the SF bay area "always" hovers around $2.00 a gallon.:mad:

Easy solution..... MOVE.

Hey Al,

Have you thought of buying those window deflectors or sunroof? I have some and am currently seeing how they affect mileage. I can definately tell there is less turbulance with the windows down, but then again, you run with the AC on...

Not an option for me' I almost never open the windows.

Thanks anyway.

How about getting some really narrow high pressure tires for the trip. Rolling resistance hurts milage (not as much as air resistance at 70, but it does). The Michelin Energy Series worls pretty well (except for being French).

Also, do you have a rear spoiler? If not, it helps on a brick like the Explorer. A little turbulence helps to make the air flow faster (that's why a golf ball has dimples).

Or you could graft on a big cone shaped piece on the back of the Explorer, kinda like on the Space Shuttle has on it's trips on top of the 747 transport.

http://www.alburyvillage.org.uk/images/Space%20shuttle%20over%20Albury%20June%201983.jpg

:p :p :p :p

I do have a rear spoiler and it did indeed help mileage.

if dimples work on golf balls, maybe you should take a ball peen (sp?) hammer to the X. Make lots of dimples and you might get an extra 2 or 3 miles per gallon. Or you could one of those Hybrid decals. Decals improve MPG as well as they improve HP.

Of course I'm j/k

I like Crazy5711's idea with the ball peen hammer. The peened dimples on the body would create a low resistance "boundary effect" for the airflow. This should net at least 5 more mpg. If Mr I. Newton was correct, after the X gets up to speed, wind resistance is the biggest power draw.

Latest road trip:
515 miles total
avg speed on way uo - 71.2
avg speed on return - 81.6
150 miles driven around town

MPG - 26.8

This was ( except the in town leg ) with 4 adults, 10 scuba tanks and all personal dive equipment

SPEED KILLS mileage.....

In preparation for a 1500 mile road trip, I changed the oil to Mobil 1 0w20 today and a KN filter )

Maybe, just maybe, this will result in better MPG.

Al I think you got a weird explorer I couldnt touch 20mpg at any speed even if I filled the cab with helium which would be pretty funny. I really need to find some way for better mileage
Gary

Originally posted by Rx4phun
I couldnt touch 20mpg

Wow, And I get 20 with my '95 :eek: And that was going around 68-70!

Watch out Aldive, I'm coming to get you :p

Originally posted by aldive
In preparation for a 1500 mile road trip, I changed the oil to Mobil 1 0w20 today and a KN filter )

Maybe, just maybe, this will result in better MPG.

Just returned from this trip and the results are pleasing:

MPG 30.98 at Avg Speed 69.32

Did you ever do anything regarding the underhood air temp/louver idea?

P.S. were you on I-75 again?

I have done nada on the underhood cooling, YET,

Yes, all I 75.

:eek: I usually get around 14 to 15 mpg in city driving or about 250 miles per tank.. But I just went on a 1500 mile trip and got an average of 20 mpg!!! It just about pulled over to check if I'd gotten in someone elses car!! By the way what kind of mileage are the 1st gen 4X4 people gettin'? I got a 2 door model and I was fully loaded...

Al, I'm wondering what the "rake" is on your X? That is, what is the difference between the suspension height, from front to back?

I measured mine last night, with aerodynamics in mind. The rear sits about 1/4 inch lower than the front (due to spring sag I'm sure). If the front was slightly lower than the rear, the parasitic drag should be reduced somewhat.......

Mine is lowered and level.

Originally posted by Minivek
:eek: I usually get around 14 to 15 mpg in city driving or about 250 miles per tank.. But I just went on a 1500 mile trip and got an average of 20 mpg!!! It just about pulled over to check if I'd gotten in someone elses car!! By the way what kind of mileage are the 1st gen 4X4 people gettin'? I got a 2 door model and I was fully loaded...

You're doing about right for a 94 4x4. I don't know how hilly Quebec is but that can make a difference. I'm getting 13-15 in my hilly city and about 18 mpg on the highway with 94 Sport 4x4. Apten chip has given me about .5 mpg.
bottom line is that the SOHC is much more fuel efficient than the OHV engine. Plus we're not lowered, etc. My rig for example, is not set up for best fuel economy...
I figure if I were lowered, electric fan, apten fuel economy program, and smaller tires I might get 21-22 mpg at best on highway.

Al that is awesome. I have shown friends of mine this thread and they can't believe an exploder can do that well.

My question is.....are you going to change the title of the thread to..."Quest for 40"? :D

aldive,
This is from your post, my comments are in CAPS (sorry if it is poor form):

The following is a list of modifications that have resulted in the mileage reported on my 99 4.0 SOHC:
Mobil 1 5 w 30 synthetic motor oil - DO YOU ALWAYS USE THIS, CAN YOU GO BACK TO REGULAR OIL AFTER MAKING THE CHANGE?

Mobil 1 ATF in auto tranny ( a complete change ) - SAME QUESTION?

Mobil 1 in the 3.73 rear end - HOW DO WE TELL WHAT REAR WE HAVE? I HAVE A 97 XLT, 4X4

KKM Tru Rev intake - WHAT IS THIS? HOW MUCH DID IT COST AND WAS IT HARD TO PUT IN? ONE FELLOW SAID HE REPLACED HIS AIR INTAKE WITH A DRYER HOSE, IS THAT LIKE THIS?

Custom cat back exhaust system - WHAT IS THIS, COST, ETC?

Remove roof rack - DID YOU FILL THE HOLES WITH SOMETHING?

Many coats of Zaino polish - DOES THIS REALLY HELP?

Tire pressure 40 psig

Explorer Express X Spec air dam _ BUG DEFLECTOR THE SAME THING?

Amoco 87 octane gas

Secondary tranny filter ( don’t know if this helps )

I GET 15 MPG, STOCK.

Originally posted by fuzzie
aldive,
This is from your post, my comments are in CAPS (sorry if it is poor form):

(1) The following is a list of modifications that have resulted in the mileage reported on my 99 4.0 SOHC:
Mobil 1 5 w 30 synthetic motor oil - DO YOU ALWAYS USE THIS, CAN YOU GO BACK TO REGULAR OIL AFTER MAKING THE CHANGE?

(2) Mobil 1 ATF in auto tranny ( a complete change ) - SAME QUESTION?

(3) Mobil 1 in the 3.73 rear end - HOW DO WE TELL WHAT REAR WE HAVE? I HAVE A 97 XLT, 4X4

(4) KKM Tru Rev intake - WHAT IS THIS? HOW MUCH DID IT COST AND WAS IT HARD TO PUT IN? ONE FELLOW SAID HE REPLACED HIS AIR INTAKE WITH A DRYER HOSE, IS THAT LIKE THIS?

(5) Custom cat back exhaust system - WHAT IS THIS, COST, ETC?

(6) Remove roof rack - DID YOU FILL THE HOLES WITH SOMETHING?

(7) Many coats of Zaino polish - DOES THIS REALLY HELP?

Tire pressure 40 psig

(8) Explorer Express X Spec air dam _ BUG DEFLECTOR THE SAME THING?

Amoco 87 octane gas

Secondary tranny filter ( don’t know if this helps )

I GET 15 MPG, STOCK.


Hope you don't mind if I answer Al (at least the ones I can). :D

(1) You can switch back to a heavier formulation of oil afterwards (i.e. from 5w30 to another). You can also go back to regular dino oil if you want.

(2) Same for the tranny. But I think that once you feel the difference and see the milage benefits, you'll keep using it. Laso, synthetics last longer, so you won't have to change the oil as much (unless you wnat to).

(3) On the differential housing there will be a little tag. It'llhave some number and letters on it. Read that, and post here. Someone will be able to tell you what it has. Also, you can look at the sticker in the door jamb. There are a whole bunch of letters and numbers. Same thing.

(4) This is an intake filter. It's just like the K&N filter only wihtout the CARB exmeption, so it's cheaper. Just as good though. If you live in a place with strict inspections, go with the K&N, if not, the KKM.

(5) Depends on which shop you go to. Mine was about $250 total price including the muffler I ordered from Summit Racing. Shop around.

(6) ON the 99 you don't need to fill any holes unless you remove the rails. The actual reack crossmembers slide out of the rails. I didn't remove my rails when I did this. The aerodynamic drag from the rails is negligible.

(7) No, but he has a really, really shiny truck! :p

(8) This is not a Bugflector. It's a big airdam that bolts underneath the front bumper. Here's a pic:

http://www.explorerexpress.com/catalog/img/large/06003.jpg


Al can fill in anything I left off. Most of these will work to improve gas milage. But as Al has pointed out before, DRIVING STYLE has the most impact.

My friend, Bjorn, did a fine job answering, If you need more help, hysr ask,

For your rear axle, find which code it is on the sticker on the driver's door and match it to one of these:

Rear Axle Codes

41 - Conventional - 3200 lb. Capacity - 3.27 Ratio
45 - Conventional - 3200 lb. Capacity - 3.55 Ratio
D4 - Limited Slip - 3200 lb. Capacity - 3.73 Ratio
46 - Conventional - 3200 lb. Capacity - 3.73 Ratio
D1 - Limited Slip - 3200 lb. Capacity - 3.27 Ratio
42 - Conventional - 3200 lb. Capacity - 4.10 Ratio
D2 - Limited Slip - 3200 lb. Capacity - 4.10 Ratio

I got 35mpg on a recent trip, although the flat bed ride home after the trans exploded maybe had something to do with it.

I am assuming your X is a 2 wheel drive, right?? I guess seeing that, it could get better than 14.....My bro in law had a 96 2wd Ranger with a tiny 4 cylinder that got something like 24 mpg.....same frame, less body weight, smaller engine.....he never got anywhere NEAR 30.....

Just one question: How are you computing your mileage??

Are you using the GPS or are you doing the math?? And are you calulating per trip or per tank??

I have found that my Garmin V GPS has a per-tankgas mileage calculatuion, not a cumulative one (or maybe I just dont know how to use it....)...In other words, when you enter the mileage in its mileage calculator it uses the distance for the whole trip....if you just enter ONE tank of gas, it overestimates the MPG....I once got 30+ MPG and this was why....

Hey, if you really can get 30mpg on a truck where most everyone else gets 14, more power to ya, but if that is true I think yo uare wasting your time here...you could sell your formula and make TONS o cash....

<grin>

Not trolling...I just have a hard time believeing that your truck can get 30 mpg on the V6 and automatic..it would have to be geared MIGHTY high to accomplish that IMHO.

Originally posted by aldive
A recent trip to N Central Florida of 450 miles yielded 27.2 MPG.

The GPS said the average speed was 71.2. The Explorer was loaded with 4 adu;ts, 8 scuba tanks and the ancillary sive equipment.

Down from the 30 MPG running empty and slower, but still acceptable.

All of these "mods" are typical to what is on mine....

The lowering/air damn probably helps some with aerodynamics....and would be worth a mpg or two....

But come on.

......there is more to this. There HAS to be.

It HAS to be a 2wd Explorer, for one.

A K&N is worth MAYBE a mile or two MPG tops, same with a cat back.....

You telling me that running mobil one is worth a 10mpg increase <grin> ??

I cant help but wonder if there has been a miscalculation of the MPG figure. A truck with 3.73s and the aerodynamics of a brick aint gonna get 30 mpg, especially wnen its as heavy as the Explorer, even in 2wd form.

Call me a pessimist, but I dont think 30 mpg is possible. A truck that gets 16/21 mileage (2003 models) aint gonna get 30 unless DRASTIC alterations are made, and no offense to anyone but these are not drastic alterations.

Driving style certainly figures in, but not to add 50% more mileage to the "average" mileage of the truck as stated by the manufacturer.....Otherwise, there would be a LOT more folks getting 30mpg.

Like I said -- I mean no disrespect for the person claiming this mileage, but I find it QUITE dificult to believe.

Originally posted by fuzzie
aldive,
This is from your post, my comments are in CAPS (sorry if it is poor form):

The following is a list of modifications that have resulted in the mileage reported on my 99 4.0 SOHC:
Mobil 1 5 w 30 synthetic motor oil - DO YOU ALWAYS USE THIS, CAN YOU GO BACK TO REGULAR OIL AFTER MAKING THE CHANGE?

Mobil 1 ATF in auto tranny ( a complete change ) - SAME QUESTION?

Mobil 1 in the 3.73 rear end - HOW DO WE TELL WHAT REAR WE HAVE? I HAVE A 97 XLT, 4X4

KKM Tru Rev intake - WHAT IS THIS? HOW MUCH DID IT COST AND WAS IT HARD TO PUT IN? ONE FELLOW SAID HE REPLACED HIS AIR INTAKE WITH A DRYER HOSE, IS THAT LIKE THIS?

Custom cat back exhaust system - WHAT IS THIS, COST, ETC?

Remove roof rack - DID YOU FILL THE HOLES WITH SOMETHING?

Many coats of Zaino polish - DOES THIS REALLY HELP?

Tire pressure 40 psig

Explorer Express X Spec air dam _ BUG DEFLECTOR THE SAME THING?

Amoco 87 octane gas

Secondary tranny filter ( don’t know if this helps )

I GET 15 MPG, STOCK.

First of all zavetsky, you have an OHV motor, which uses a LOT more gas than a SOHC that aldive has. You can do all the lowering mods, etc. that aldive has done, and never get near 30 mpg, probably not more than 20-22 mpg, just because of the thirsty OHV engine you have in your truck.

I think it is quite possible to get 30 mpg highway on aldive's setup. The key here is to look at WHERE al is doing his testing (I-75) and his driving habits...
He would NEVER get 30 mpg where I live...for example...
too many hills...
So here's a discussion

1), remember we're talkin' HIGHWAY mileage here..

1a). al has a 2wd, I believe, and it's an SOHC, a much more fuel-efficient engine than the OHV which you and I have...

2), the factory mpg figures on a SOHC are a lot higher than 14 mpg,..that's more typical of city mileage on an OHV V6 Explorer like we have. I know the highway factory spec for a V6 SOHC Explorer is over 20 mpg, probably 22 mpg, someone with a SOHC can verify. On my 94 with the OHV v6, highway spec is 20 mpg...

3), the calculation of mileage was discussed here long ago,...possibly in this thread way back. The topic of "is his mpg being calc'ed correctly" was discussed and it was done the proper way, I believe, i.e. by taking the fill up and dividing by the miles gone on that tank of gas.
If this is done, there is no error, no debating, it's cold hard math. If you fill with 16.5 gallons and have gone 285 miles since last, then you've got 17.28 miles per gallon.

4) aldives 30 mpg figures were done mostly on Interstate 75 in Florida and Georgia below Atlanta. If you know about that highway (I do) it is generally flat, with just a few minor hills around Cordele, GA and up around Atlanta. If I got to drive my truck on that nice flat interstate I bet I would get a few extra mpg.

5) I would bet my truck that Al F. has a light foot, in fact I recall him or someone saying here that they didn't exceed 2000 rpm whilst accelerating. I tried this in my Explorer, I could barely move from a stop, hehehe

So, I think biggest factors, in no partic. order, are:
a) flat I-75
b) light foot
c) mods

My kind of thread. My 99 XLT is 100% stock (so far) - it's in need of a timing chain tensioner. I drive in a relatively hilly area of the north shore of Boston and drive approx. 400 miles per week. Nothing special for fluids. I have Valvoline Instant Oil Change (just don't have the time to do it myself right now) done every 4k or so with the mid-grade oil (can't recall what it's called). I fill to the absolute top (20+ gallons) with Hess 87 octane. I run it very close to absolutely dry in about six days. I get very consistently ~375 miles per tank - that's ~18.5 mpg. I can get better than 20mpg on a family weekend to NH. I drive left lane in traffic (65-75 depending on traffic). I don't mash on the gas (often), but I don't fart around either.

I'm really looking forward to seeing the effects on MPG of doing the intake mod and MAS cleaning (I hope that makes the occasional pinging subside too).

My previous vehicle (not counting a bout with stupidity when I drove a PT Cruiser for about 5 months) was a '93 XLT and I got more than 190k out of it - with similar MPG. It's still being driven by a good friend of mine in the outer suburbs of Boston. :) BTW: The PT Cruiser (a pretty gutless 4-banger version) got no better MPG!

Ok.

Maybe the question really is:

is ANYONE else getting this kind of mileage?

Surely he isnt the only one with this engine/truck/driving habits combination.

The "mods" made arent anything out of the ordinary....

And if there are others getting 30mpg, then what is the point of the thread??

<grin>

WIth the number of "Oh my goodness! How did you get 30! I want 30!" posts, his is NOT typical MPG, therefore leaving it to conjecture as to how he accomplishes that kind of MPG.

Hence my argument.

I dunno..seems like if 30mpg was truly attainable it wouldnt be such a hot topic.

or am I way off here?

DZ
.


Originally posted by Rhett Browning
First of all zavetsky, you have an OHV motor, which uses a LOT more gas than a SOHC that aldive has. You can do all the lowering mods, etc. that aldive has done, and never get near 30 mpg, probably not more than 20-22 mpg, just because of the thirsty OHV engine you have in your truck.

I think it is quite possible to get 30 mpg highway on aldive's setup. The key here is to look at WHERE al is doing his testing (I-75) and his driving habits...
He would NEVER get 30 mpg where I live...for example...
too many hills...
So here's a discussion

1), remember we're talkin' HIGHWAY mileage here..

1a). al has a 2wd, I believe, and it's an SOHC, a much more fuel-efficient engine than the OHV which you and I have...

2), the factory mpg figures on a SOHC are a lot higher than 14 mpg,..that's more typical of city mileage on an OHV V6 Explorer like we have. I know the highway factory spec for a V6 SOHC Explorer is over 20 mpg, probably 22 mpg, someone with a SOHC can verify. On my 94 with the OHV v6, highway spec is 20 mpg...

3), the calculation of mileage was discussed here long ago,...possibly in this thread way back. The topic of "is his mpg being calc'ed correctly" was discussed and it was done the proper way, I believe, i.e. by taking the fill up and dividing by the miles gone on that tank of gas.
If this is done, there is no error, no debating, it's cold hard math. If you fill with 16.5 gallons and have gone 285 miles since last, then you've got 17.28 miles per gallon.

4) aldives 30 mpg figures were done mostly on Interstate 75 in Florida and Georgia below Atlanta. If you know about that highway (I do) it is generally flat, with just a few minor hills around Cordele, GA and up around Atlanta. If I got to drive my truck on that nice flat interstate I bet I would get a few extra mpg.

5) I would bet my truck that Al F. has a light foot, in fact I recall him or someone saying here that they didn't exceed 2000 rpm whilst accelerating. I tried this in my Explorer, I could barely move from a stop, hehehe

So, I think biggest factors, in no partic. order, are:
a) flat I-75
b) light foot
c) mods

ok i have a real nice cat back exaust and the intake well, lets just say its a cone filter (K&N) and i CUT THROUGH MY HOOD! air flow is no problem at or abouve 10 mph i have virtually no engine performance mods other than a super chip which causes me to run 93 octane. best i get on a 1994 explorer with (i think ) a 19 gallon tank absolutely totally topped off so darn much the attendant praticly yells at me. i get 310-320 moles out of a tank. did god himself bless your truck to get 30mpg. geezzz thats awesome...wish i knew how u did it.


I dont get moles ...its miles...but i left it there cause that sounds funny as hell does'nt it? damn i hate my keyboard!

ok i posted than i re read forum...and i cam up wth a new question.... what difference does 2x4 and 4x4 make if the transfer case is NOT engaged, the front wheels spin freeley. i could see a problem with AWD but not 4x4 that is not engauged. how does this affect the performance?

We have a 94 xlt 4x4 with 165k. I do an extreme amount of long distance driving. One of the biggest impovements I did for mileage besides running the tire pressure at 35psi is to draft the rigs. Wait until you find one doing 70 or so then slip in behind him you know your close enough when the wind stops buffering your vehicle and everything quiets down.......best mileage trailing was 22.5 on Interstate set last month. Wife usually gets 19 average going to work and back all highway.

Worst mileage out of the explorer was around 14....shortly after this had bearings fail up front then with new bearings mileage went back up.

Weight. Lots of added weight.

Originally posted by Pheonixx77
ok i posted than i re read forum...and i cam up wth a new question.... what difference does 2x4 and 4x4 make if the transfer case is NOT engaged, the front wheels spin freeley. i could see a problem with AWD but not 4x4 that is not engauged. how does this affect the performance?

Hey Aldive, I just read your post & thought I'd add a little bit to it. Your list of mods that helped with your mileage should also include the Apten chip, Granatelli MAF & TB spacer. I did the same mods as yourself on my '91 Navajo (except chip) & my mileage & power went up substantially. I have 154K mi on my 4x4 model w/towing pkg (lower gear ratio) & even so, on 1400 mi trip from San Diego up over mountains of Nevada to Spokane, at a constant 60mph pulling a 2500 lb U-Haul trailer I made 23mpg consistently on 87 octane. Around town (Spokane has a million street lites at every block intersection & horrible roads) I still avg 17mpg & I drive fairly aggressively. So, despite what the naysayers state about TB spacers & Granatelli, my own experience has been that both help immensely.

Just a thought
cm

Oh, & BTW, the mileage rating on the '01 2wd Sport is 18/22mpg city/hiway

I had a '91 Explorers 4WD Manual, Stock that got 25MPG highway. Between me and my family we have had 5 Explorers, all 4WD, all Manuals, all stock, and they all get 21-25 on the highway. Most of them get 22-23 highway.

Same gas efficiency as other Georgians.... probally a few more Georgia Peaches.

Just got back from a 1000 mile road trip. The first leg - avg speed 70.23 MPG 29.2. Have not filled up from the return trip yet.

I thought that going from convention oil to synthetic can be bad for the seals? Or is that with older vehicles with different seal materials?

Originally posted by briwayjones
I thought that going from convention oil to synthetic can be bad for the seals? Or is that with older vehicles with different seal materials?

Yhat is simply fiction.

Originally posted by Pheonixx77
ok i posted than i re read forum...and i cam up wth a new question.... what difference does 2x4 and 4x4 make if the transfer case is NOT engaged, the front wheels spin freeley. i could see a problem with AWD but not 4x4 that is not engauged. how does this affect the performance? Besides the difference in weight (as Mentioned by zavetsky) a 4x4 has a T-Case which will create additional drag etc...

I believe the secret reason AL gets such great mileage is he must be a Helium salesman. He gets the stuff so cheap he fills up his tires, and always carries lots of huge ballons to give to children on his many road trips.

Originally posted by aldive
Just got back from a 1000 mile road trip. The first leg - avg speed 70.23 MPG 29.2. Have not filled up from the return trip yet.

The second leg of the trip yielded.... Avg speed 68.4 MPH MPG 30.28.

The AC was not used at all on this trip and there appears no difference in mileage when using it or not.

i just took a 517 mile trip and had to fill my 22 gallon tank up 3 times

Do you think the Apten chip helped any? I have a 99 Mountaineer AWD 3.73 V8, average about 15 in town.

Yes, the Apten chip helped. Its the AWD thasts killing you, in my opinion.

You will benefit more from the Apten Chip if you upgrade the intake & exhaust system. The collaboration of these three items will usualy give you improved power & fuel effieciency. We have the Mac Intake and the Gibson Exhaust now available at explorer express.

By the way, 15mpg around town is average for the V8 Explorer. My guy Ronnie B. gets around 10-13mpg. Of course he drives like a mad man!

You want to take all the proper course of action for good fuel mileage, proper maintainance, proper tire pressure, cruise control on long drives etc.

You may want to read this complete thread on how Aldive does it. He is truly the guru of gas mileage!

I would love to get 30 mpg but also be able to romp on the pedal every so often. It think I drive with a heavier foot in the winter because it's so much fun to do controlled slides and what not.

To contribute further to this thread (I posted a long time ago on it) I can now post on the current state of the gas mileage on my 94 Sport 4x4:
3.27 gears
30's or occasionally I put on my 31's
AMSOIL synth in diffs, engine, (not in transmission yet)
TB, MAF, Apten, etc. .96 TB calibration, new O2s, etc.
I have a grill guard and a lund sunvisor which hurts mileage. Furthermore, my truck has some bad rotors which are dragging me down a bit.

14.0 mpg in town (summer)
13.6 mpg in town (winter)

Hwy is approx 18 mpg.
I have been keeping meticulous mileage records for the last 2 years. Over those 2 years, my mods have increased mileage by about .5 to 1 mpg. This is real world--not the hp and mileage claims you might hear from aftermarket retailers.

Also have a 92 E.B. Sport, 4x4, limited slip, auto, and in my north of Atlanta commute I get 17 -18, and 20 -21 highway, without any mods, and without trying hard. My 99 V8 Mountaineer gives me 15, and I really baby it. I would not expect 30mpg, but I would like to get it up to 18 on my commute. I notice that idling and acceleration really sucks gas on the V8. Maybe I need to try the chip route. But I would be concerned about having to move up to premium gas. I've noticed that most red lights here in my area are in a valley, you always accelerate up hill from the light, which really eats gas on the V8. I've not been able to see a measureable difference in mileage between synthetic oil, and a good quality oil. Maybe coupled with other things (transmission, differential) it would help.
Harold

You don't gave to run premium gas with a chip. Just get it programmed for 87 octane, fuel economy program.

The cumulative effect of all my mods has been .5 to 1 mpg better. There's just no comparison between the 4.0 OHV and the 4.0 SOHC in terms of mileage.

explorer only suv in top 10 (http://autos.msn.com/advice/article.aspx?contentid=4022358&src=NRES_Jump)

this is cool, ford explorer top ten most sold vehicles 2003, sorry it's kinda off topic i couldn't find anywhere else to put it.

Latest move to further increase mileage....

I am flushing the tranny with Amsoil ATF. Has never ha d anything vur Mobil 1 ATF in it.

Changing the rear end to Amsoil Series 2000 75w90 to replace the Mobil 1.

I have a couple thousand mile trip comming real soon.

We shall see.....

Originally posted by wilson_nick
explorer only suv in top 10 (http://autos.msn.com/advice/article.aspx?contentid=4022358&src=NRES_Jump)

this is cool, ford explorer top ten most sold vehicles 2003, sorry it's kinda off topic i couldn't find anywhere else to put it.

The Explorer has been in the top ten most sold vehicles and the most sold SUV every year since the year they were introduced. ;)

Aldive, I am wondering how much effect all that weight you put in your rig (scuba takns and people) has on your mostly flat trip?

I figure your are kinda like a freighter hear in Puget Sound, put it in neutral and I bet you will coast 2 miles before stopping.

How about a test, same direction route and distance, once loaded to the hilt then again flying solo.

I have done such a comparason. The mileage is slightly reduced with full load.

I know you are lowered but do you run an under-carriage cowl, kind like a skid plate, between the front bumper and suspension?

I have a Gen1 so I don't know G2 or G3 came with them.

My 99 Mountaineer AWD V8 came with synthetic in the rear end from the factory. Factory recommends never changing it. Wonder if the Amsoil would be of any benefit in it. The front differential as far as I can determine is not synthetic. It for sure is a candidate to be upgraded to synthetic.

Harold

Originally posted by Albino 94LTD
I know you are lowered but do you run an under-carriage cowl, kind like a skid plate, between the front bumper and suspension?

I have a Gen1 so I don't know G2 or G3 came with them.

No I do not.

I took a trip from MN to CA it was 2100 miles each way on one part of the trip I got 24 mpg that was the best. I averaged 20mpg with a low of 17mpg. The mods I have are Intake, exhaust and Mobil 1 synthetic,

aldive i dont think your mods have MUCH to do with the gas mileage your getting. I have a 97 4x4 XLT and i have been averaging 24-25mpg driving mostly on the highways but around town occasionally. I just dont rev it up to much and let the gears do the accelerating and i get good mileage.

The terrain he's driving on is a BIG factor;
The driving style is also a BIG factor;
But you can't discount the mods...
Even with my truck, with unaerodynamic visor, push bar, etc. I have improved gas mileage by .5 to 1 mpg with my mods--but that's about 10% better mileage than I was getting.

Notably I think the airdam helps aldive; and his truck might be lowered, I can't remember. That helps.
Tire pressure helps.

To further the quest....

Today I did a complete tranny flush ( used 15 quarts ) with Amsoil ATF and a new K & N external filter. The old ATF ( Mobil 1 ) looked as clean as new ( 25k miles ). I decided to change over to Amsoil after talking to quite a few folks who have great luck with this ATF ( mileage wise ),

Tomorrow I am changing the rear end oil and adding Amsoil Series 2000 SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lube.

The motor oil will also be changed and refilled with Amsoil SERIES 2000 - SAE 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil and a K & N filter.

A couple of thousand mile trip is scheduled for mid
next week. We shall see what, if any, improvements in gas mileage the above causes.

After all this time and all that great gas mileage, al forgot to tell us that he can manualy disengage two of his fuel injectors in overdrive. lol :D
At the end of this post Al will wake up, shake his head, open his eyes to tell us it was all a dream. (dont mind me im kinda dumb)
Good job Al

Al,

Have you noticed any difference based on which chip program you select? IE, performance, economy, 93 actane or 87. Does your economy selection noticeable affect driveablility over the stock setting?

Thanks,

Harold

99 Mountaineer V8 AWD
92 Sport E.B. 4x4

Originally posted by hsinc
Al,

Have you noticed any difference based on which chip program you select? IE, performance, economy, 93 actane or 87. Does your economy selection noticeable affect driveablility over the stock setting?


I have one of the single program chips. It requires 93 gas but Brian did some mileage enhancements on it.

Originally posted by aldive
Changing the rear end to Amsoil Series 2000 75w90 to replace the Mobil 1.

After draining the rear end oil ( Mobil 1 ) after 50k miles, the oil looked like new, no discoloration whatsoever.

The inside of the rear wnd and the cover looked like new' no metal particles or sludge at all.

Synthetic oil is truly amazing.

The only reason I changed is to go from 140 to 90 in my quest for mileage.

I've got a 1998 Sport with 4.0 SOHC and never got any better than 25 mpg. And that's when most of the time I'm hidden behind a semi...
:D

that's mixed city/highway driving. Never really took a trip that long as to be able to check fuel consumption as you did but 32 mpg??!!

anyway:
tires blown up to 40 will give you better gas milage... windows up too, motor oil? not much I assume...

are you sure you haven't replaced your engine with a diesel unit?

that 32 mpg sure sounds like a diesel fuel consumption to me...

like a GEO Metro...
I'll be damned.. got to try this.

Let's see...... I have a '94 sport, no engine mods, no intake mods, stock replaced everything that has broken to be exact. i run stock tire size heavy duty 10 ply tires, first tranny grenaded at 114k miles, replacement is begining to die already at 150k.....so i have to go first to third while shifting....

...and i get 18/21 driving it like it's rented. (because we all know driving it like you stole it would mean 5 under the speed limit and using your blinkers :D )

when i do baby it, i still have to skip second on acceleration...so first has to rev to 3k RPM.....i get about 19/22. my truck will soon begin getting some mods: lower, air dam, etc.....i will post any noticable changes in my miles if i get any.

-Matt

Originally posted by aldive
I have one of the single program chips. It requires 93 gas but Brian did some mileage enhancements on it.

Al,

Did the Apten economy program pick up enough mileage gains to justify the extra cost of Premium fuel on a per mile basis? I live in GA where gas is pretty cheap and it's generally a 20 cent premium for 93 octane. At current fuel prices, I'd have to pick up about 13% fuel economy to justify the Premium fuel.

I have a dual program chip in my '97 XLT 2WD and get slightly better mileage with the 93 performance program (about 5%), but not enough to justify the extra money for that reason alone. I do like the way the X drives using teh 93 octane and the performance program, but I have a bit heavier foot than you.

On using synthetic fluids, I can justify the cost of Syn motor oil with mileage gains alone. The extra protection and added life is the real reason I run Syn, but the mileage gains alone justify the $30 I spend in materials for each oil change.

Good thread, I've been following it off and on for a long time.

-twylie

Originally posted by treywylie
Al, Did the Apten economy program pick up enough mileage gains to justify the extra cost of Premium fuel on a per mile basis?

Probably not on a strick dollar basis, however, when I can have a very quick SUV that gets around 30 MPG, I am a happy camper.

[i]
(because we all know driving it like you stole it would mean 5 under the speed limit and using your blinkers :D )

-Matt [/B]

lmao :D

Al, when it's time for a new muffler, check this one out:
Aero-Turbine Muffler (www.aero-turbine.com)
They're supposed to give an MPG boost.

Al,

What method did you use to drain and flush your transmission and torque converter. Just ordered a chip today, but am also looking at some other things you have done, including synthetics.

Harold
99 Mountaineer AWD

I just drained my tranny, and flushed.

I took off the pan. (buy the gasket from ford, its thicker and has pinch protectors around the holes)
Since I was under there I replaced the filter.
After I reinstalled the pan (please clean the pan up shinny) I added the same amount of atf (merc V) that came out with the pan drop, it was about 4.5 qrts then i took it to my pal at the ford dealership, after hours, and he flushed 16 qrts through the tranny

- with my 99 you should remove exaust pipe from drivers side
- Not shure if the 5R55e auto in my 99 is synth friendly, so I went with the Mercon V that your owners manual says to put in
- oooo dont forget, since your down there, drain and refill your transfer case with the reg mercon atf

dont know if this will help you with your first gen x. :eek:

Originally posted by hsinc
Al,

What method did you use to drain and flush your transmission and torque converter. Just ordered a chip today, but am also looking at some other things you have done, including synthetics.


I disconnected the “to transmission” hose from my remote filter housing. I plugged and clamped the disconnected line and added and hose clamped a 6 ft length of 3/8” line to the housing. The other end went into a calibrated water jug ( 1 gal size ).

We used 15 quarts of Amsoil ATF.

Even though this ( old ) ATF ( Mobil 1 ) has about 40 k miles on it, it still looked like new.

After the flush/fill was completed, I added a new K & N filter to the housing and reattached the hoses.

The procedure took my son and I about 15 minutes to complete. There was no mess; nary a drop was spilled.

I thought I would try to give my truck a good cleaning with Sea Foam.

I used the product via the brake booster vacuum line as well as a full can in the tank today. Damn thing smoked for about 5 miles, wow.

We shall see what happens now....

Originally posted by aldive
T
Many coats of Zaino polish


3 coats = 1mpg..... ;)

i just surprised myself...i'm an 18 year old male driving a lifted 95 X with 170k miles and original everything (knock on wood) with mudders, a clogged K&N and a bad alignment, i i just drove from saratoga springs, NY to my house and i got 25 MPG, im pretty excited:D. My second best is 18

Yesterday I installed my new Power Slot ( http://www.powerslot.com/ ) front rotors. The install was a simple 30-minute job and went smoothly.

I decided since I was using new rotors and pads, might as well use new wheel hearings also.

In my never-ending quest for better mileage, I decided to use Amsoil Series 2000 Synthetic Racing Grease (http://www.amsoil.com/products/grg.html )

I put the rotors through the recommended initial break in procedure of a series of stops from various speeds. Initial impression is that the brakes feel very strong and precise.

My son and I are heading to Ft Lauderdale today on business and we shall see what happens with the mileage on this 400-mile voyage.

Back from Ft Laudderdale ( 427 mile trip ). Average speed 79.8 MPH. Mileage 22.8 MPH.

Speed kills...... my son did all the driving in his youthful ( read - wasteful style ); WOT runs up entrance ramps, leaving motor running when stoped to consult map on the laptop, WOT to pass other cars, etc.

All of that and we still got 22.8 MPH.....

Originally posted by aldive
Back from Ft Laudderdale ( 427 mile trip ). Average speed 79.8 MPH. Mileage 22.8 MPH.

Speed kills...... my son did all the driving in his youthful ( read - wasteful style ); WOT runs up entrance ramps, leaving motor running when stoped to consult map on the laptop, WOT to pass other cars, etc.


That's a lot of unnessary strain on the driveline, I find it odd you let your vehicle get driven this way, given all that you have invested in it. To each his own I suppose.

If I *averaged* 79.8 mph I would get some tickets!
You must have a Valentine One or some other quality detector!

We have a Passport and my son has a badge.

WOT every now and again isn't a bad thing. Believe it or not, I get better milage with WOT.

I would say my average speed is around 80 mph daily driving to and from work... I don't do much punch and brake... usually just cruise at around 85 steady most of the way (30 miles each way). Add quite a bit of city driving to that... about 100 miles a day average. Today I filled my truck up and ran the numbers - 200 miles - 14.5 gallons = 13.79 mpg...

1998 Sport with 4.0 SOHC with only KKM induction...

200 miles to a tank is a bit crazy. I'll try to stay around the speed limit now, take it easy in the city... and see what I get.

Well I am off to the Atlanta area tomorrow at o dark thirty. I am interested in seeing what the recent additions and mods will do to the mileage.

I'm interested too... I've got to go back in this thread and see what all mods you have on your truck. I have tested my truck on a second tank of gas and came with an improvement - big deal!!! I have driven my truck within the speed limits... top speed at 70 mph... average highway speed 65 mph.... mixed city/highway driving - easy, very easy on the gas pedal.... no serious acceleration.... nothing. Drove it like my 63 year old father would... and came with 14.7 mpg...

so it all came to 1 gallon improvement over my regular driving.

With your push rod motor, you'll never get close to Al's MPG.

The MPG MPH threshold seems to be 60mph for me. 60 and below on the freeway and I got 18-19 before mods.

I haven't taken a long trip since the mods, so this summer to Eastern Montana will be interesting, if I can keep my foot off the pedal.

I recently did a test tankful where I drove like a grandma... and here are the results: (94 Sport 4x4 4.0 OHV engine):

Normal in-town mpg = 13.6 mpg
Grandma driving in-town mpg = 14.7 mpg

So 15 mpg (factory sticker spec for 94 Sport 4x4) IS possible, if you really baby it while accelerating, and avoid the hills...

i hear synthetics do wonder's with gas mileage

Originally posted by Ford_Racing_Guy
i hear synthetics do wonder's with gas mileage

Indeed they do.

Funny though because I'm getting simillar milage on my 1994 Sport as I am on my 98 Sport


94 is lifted and equipped with 4:10 gears and 33" mud terrains... standard 4.0 L engine

98 is not lifted (I don't count TT and AAL) running on 4:10 gears and 31" snow Yoko's

98 is a SOHC though
:(

To err is human... to air is divine

On the latest trip to the ranch ( 1200 some odd miles ), I neglected to verify that my tires had 40 psig in them and I suffered in the mileage department. I had been experimenting with air pressure in the tires in regards to ride quality.

When I got to Atlanta ( 516 miles ) and refilled the gas tank, I was shocked to see that I averaged only 28.2 MPG. That is down over 2 MPG over what I normally achieve on the identical trip.

After driving around the ranch and the Atlanta area, I thought to check the tire pressure; alas, it was only 32 psig, yikes! I forgot to refill the tires to 40 psig for the trip. That error was quickly remedied.

The return trip netted an average of 30.2 MPG. To err is human?. to air is divine.

my average milage is about 12-13. i have an exuast and a custom intake, i guess it didnt help much

My '98 Sport gets about 30 with constant highway driving and 24 while in-town. I use ARCO gas most of the time since it is now "only" $1.79 a gallon.

My '98 Sport gets about 30 with constant highway driving and 24 while in-town. I use ARCO gas most of the time since it is now "only" $1.79 a gallon.

Thats great, what mods have you done?

The trick with the 5R is to get it to shift into OD as soon as you can. With the SOHC motor I can go 1/4 of the pedal down and get up to cruising speed quite quickly. This has gotten me 19/25 MPG average, and I run all dino fluids on a totally stock 126K mile drivetrain. Come to think of it...I have never done a Seafoam. Can I just dump it in the gas tank?

It is the same as when I bought her a few years ago.....stock

It is the same as when I bought her a few years ago.....stock


I'm gonna go ahead and say there's no way you're getting 30 in a stock Ex unless you are doing down a 75 degree slope with a 75 mph tailwind. :)

I own a 95 sport 4x4. I just got my personal best, 19.2 mpg. This was mostly city driving and for the most part, never exceding 2500 rpms. Aldive, after reading all your posts, my question to you is, have you actually started to save money, or are you still behind the power curve with all your mod's and use of high priced lubricants?

The-use of synthetic oil pays for itself in extended change intervals,

Yes, with the amount of driving I do, the mods pay for themselves.

:rolleyes: OOPS...I meant 20. I only gadiated from hi-scool. SORRY GUYS

Are you one of those guys I always get behind at a light that takes 3 miles to get up to 65mph? ;)

Pulling a trailer sure sucks…. sucks gas that is.

My son and I just did a 450-mile trip to do some wheeling with his CJ7, which we tow, on a tandem trailer.

The first leg of the trip we averaged 71.3 MPH and the gas mileage was 11.4 MPG. The second leg we averaged 67.3 MPH and got 17.1 MPG.

Other than the speed reduction, we dropped the windshield of the Jeep. We have gotten up to 20 MPG towing this rig in the past. However, the Jeep now rides on 33’s with a 6-inch lift; sure catches the wind now.

The tranny did run a lot cooler with the new tranny cooler addition.

Thanks for sharing your experiences, Al. That's a good example of the relationship between weight, relative wind resistance, and speed. I wouldn't have guessed that the MPG would have improved that much with only a 4 mph reduction in speed, even with the Jeep windshield down.

If I remember correctly, you have a rear spoiler, right? Did you do mpg comparisons with and without it? I'm curious because I'm considering one for my Sport.

Don

If I remember correctly, you have a rear spoiler, right? Did you do mpg comparisons with and without it? I'm curious because I'm considering one for my Sport.

There was a slight improvement; nothing big, yet t is the sum of all the small things that allow me to get 30 MPG, without a tow.

Latest road trip results:

Sarasota to Atlanta avg speed 69.8 MPH 30.24 MPG 548 miles
Atlanta to Sarasota avg speed 71.4 MPH 28.94 MPG 507 miles

used Sea Foam in gas tank on first leg of the trip

Went on a road trip with my son to Ft Lauderdale yesterday and did a road test of my new Apten Flasher.

Set the 1st program to my custom 93-octane/max mileage program, filled the truck with Mobil 93 gas and drove I75 South to Naples; this leg of the trip was 105 miles. Mileage was 32.9 MPG. This was 74.1 MPH with the cruse control on.

Refilled truck with Shell 87 octane and set the computer to the stock program. Drove 111 miles into Ft Lauderdale. Mileage was 20.8 MPG. The speed was about 75 except the last 21 miles, which were in town, in traffic driving. The shifts seemed to take forever and the truck felt sluggish.

In Ft Lauderdale, we refilled the truck with Shell 87 octane and set the computer to the 87-octane program.

We drove all the way back to Sarasota in this mode, I75 only, average speed was 78.4 MPH. The mileage was 21.4 MPG. The truck felt much more powerful than with the stock program and the shifts were as crisp as with the 93 program.

My son did all of the driving, speed was calculated with GPS. The truck was considered full at the first automatic cut off of the gas pump.

I am befuddled by the 10 MPG difference in the programs. The 32 MPG reading with the 93 octane program is in line with the same mileage I got with the similar program that was in my Apten chip. It is possible that the various fill ups could have been slightly different due to different gas pumps and their cut off points. This was a short preliminary test of the Flasher vs mileage. The test will be done again on an upcoming Atlanta trip where we will run 500 plus miles per tank to determine a more accurate mileage.

I left the truck in the 87 octane program to see how it works out in town.

Highest gas price was $2.24 9 for 87 octane in Naples.

Highest gas price was $1.24 9 for 87 octane in Naples.
Al, this is a typo, right? You meant to say $2.24 per gallon???

I too am confused with your results. That is a huge gap in MPG. If you could figure out the reason for it, maybe that would be the key to increased mileage. The only thing I can think of that would make that much difference is timing. And it would have to be a big difference, like maybe 10 or more degrees advanced......???

Al, this is a typo, right? You meant to say $2.24 per gallon??????

yes a typo, sorry.

Yesterday my son and I took his Jeep wheeling in the Green Swamp; we tow the Jeep on a tandem trailer behind my Explorer.

The trip up averaged 78.3 MPH and the mileage was an abysmal 9.85.

The return trip was at 65 MPH and we got only 11.74 MPG.

A far cry from the coveted 30 MPG....

Towing sucks, gas that is.

Well, there was some good news on my trip from El Paso to Tampa, the Explorer got way better gas milage than I expected. I got a low of 17 mpg and a high of 21 mpg. Although we only avaraged 60 mph, it's still pretty good considering the 33's, flared fenders, the rather unaerodynamic front, and the Yakima cargo box on top. All in all I'm very pleased. Now if I could only get around to fixing that busted thermostat, I imagine I'd get a few more mpg...

One thing that may or may not have been mentioned that has to be kept in mind....ELEVATION. Elevation above or below sea level plays a part in MPG's as well. Ambient temperture as well will affect MPG's.

I have a lot of city data resulting in 18MPG. Have yet to do a highway test. Will be driving it from TX to CA and back in about a month, so I will post the results of the trip.

Current Mods Include:

Electric Fan Conversion
K&N Intake Kit

Currently Running:
Valvoline 10w30
Stock Tranny fluid
Tires also at 40PSI rated for 44PSI MAX
87 Octane fuel
No lift or lowering.
Stock gears.

A nice catback would probably help me a lot. Well as soon as I can afford one :rolleyes: .

Making an Atlanta run in the morning ( 510 miles ).

I plan to run the 87 custom program up and the 93 custom one on the return leg.

We shall see what the different programs yield with highway only mileage.

Making an Atlanta run in the morning ( 510 miles ).

I plan to run the 87 custom program up and the 93 custom one on the return leg.

We shall see what the different programs yield with highway only mileage.

Just got back and here is the data:

87 program 517 miles 68.7 MPH ( rain ) 29.27 MPG
93 program 507 miles 72.4 MPH 31.56 MPG

Prior to the trip I ran a can of Sea Foam through the motor and some in the gas ( trip up only ).

Al, I have noticed that you take many long trips. How many miles are on your truck?

Al, I have noticed that you take many long trips. How many miles are on your truck?

Just hit 97k on the old ticker.

Al
You Have gotten some great results and i have followed all that you have done to get to where you are at this point< i applaud you, I have about the same mods as you, same engine, do not know about the wgt differencials if any.
I am far older than you but drive like a bat out of hell far in excess of the norm, I get maybe 20-22 MPG. long haul, 500 mile flat Hwy, in town perhaps 16, have done two Dyno runs after my mods, 6 pulls, some worked for better HP and TQ, some not.
In a nutshell, how have you achieved almost 33 MPG, step by step, what made your best achievments, I wanna get to where you are, pls tell me how, the price of gas is killing me. Thx

I am far older than you

but drive like a bat out of hell far in excess of the norm,



Ha ha, if you are far older than I am, you must be dead' I was born in '47. I am actually older than you.

Thats why your mileage is so low; driving style and technique is probably the single most important thing one can do for mileage.

I wanna get to where you are, pls tell me how, the price of gas is killing me. Thx

Upon further pondering, I see that you have aftermarket wheels and I assume wider tires; wider tires=lower mileage. It is "possible" that your hood ascoop is affecting smooth air flow over the hood and hurting mileage. The body style of the Trac is probably negatively affecting airflow at sppe reducing mileage. I don't know if your rear end is affecting your mileage???? What weight synthetic oil is in the motor? The rear end?

Is your Apten chip a "performance" chip or is it a custom made one programmed for max mileage?

Did you notice any difference when you switched to all synthetics lubes?

The switch to synthetic ( motor, tranny, rear end, wheel bearings ) netted about 4 MPG gain.

I noticed that you switched from the Mobil 1 to Amsoil. The reason was?? Just curious.

This "is" a great thread.

I noticed that you switched from the Mobil 1 to Amsoil. The reason was?? Just curious.

This "is" a great thread.

I am constantly changing products trying to find what is best for me. I am pleased with Amsoil even though Mobil 1 is also an excellent product.

If there is a product or procedure on the market that is better than what I currently use/do, then I will definately evaluate it; if proven ( by me ) to be better, I will switch to it.

Spindle, also is it possible that California fuels and emmision requirements negatively affect your mileage?

In my 98,

I usually get around 13-15 driving around town and what not.

But I usually get 23-25 on the highway :)

~J

Some mentioned that elevation and ambient air tems are important when considering gas mileage. This is very true as colder air is more dense and therefore will produce more power. The lower the elevation the more dense the air is as well.

Aldive, I'm surprised you never tried to drive without the cruise control. If you drive on mostly flat highways then it is a moot point. But, if you live where there are hills it is much more efficient to gradually lose mph as you climb hills and gradually increase speed as you go downhill.

I think you proved that the part that needs to be changed out to make the best improvement in mpg is the one between the seat and the steering wheel.

Just thought I'd chime in on this one. My truck is a '99 XLT 4X4 5 speed auto with the OHV engine. I've got 99k on the ticker, KKM intake and Mobil 1 engine oil. Tires are at 37 psi. I just got 17.5 mpg mixed driving with 87 octane. I'm going to go synthetic in the tranny and rear end in the near future and will update with what I find.

Since reading this post I have been watching my mpg more closely to see what my 98 5.0 AWD can do

I can average between 20 mpg with about 70% highway 30% city. Wuith nothing but highway driving I can get about 24-25 mpg. Here are my mods so far
-Apten chip always in 93 octane program but I usually only run 89 octane
-76mm C&L MAF with elbow
-2 chamber Flowmasters with turndowns/dumps

Here are some real negatives for my X
-275 wide tires
-AWD
-luggage racks still on
-4700 #'s

I have some mods planned but I'm not sure if I will do them before I drop the 347 in or not. I'd be interested how much better it would be with a complete exhaust - Kooks LT headers to an X pipe and ported heads and intake. Like I said it will probably never happen before the 347 block goes in though, so who knows.

Ever think of putting matting under you explorer like a lexus has it makes it aero efficient and from what i hear helps alot with wind resistance under the car....i think if that was done youd see a 4-6 gallon gain cuz of the extrme reduction in drag on the underside of your car....my dad has a ls and the underboddy looks all spiffy and clean with none of the ugly underside showning! By the way aldive id love to see your car in person....i live in sarasota to! but i have a ghey ohv 6 that eats me for lunch and i do the 2100rpm drive and get like 17.6 all city.

Yes, I have considered doing the undercarrage covering. However, with the air damn on front, I am not sure how much would be gained from it. But it is on the list of future projects.

Thanks for the suggestions.

DocVijay...that looks exactly like my dog.

I get crappy mileage, as well. I paid $1.95 this morning for low octane. Some might say that's not so bad, but it's pretty rough around here b/c we have probably one of the worst local economies you could imagine. Translation? low wages and high prices.

JDraper...I think you have a misprint. You typed $.77/gallon. WTF??? I think I'm gonna be sick.

Putting the final touches on the Explorer this morning for another Atlanta run.

A Zaino Z2/Z6 treatment, a check of the fluids, pump the tires to 40psig, fill with Amoco 93, set the computer for the 93 program with the Apten Flasher and I will be ready to head out at O dark thirty tomorrow.

I am shooting for 30 MPG…..

Back from the Atlanta run...

Sarasota to Atlanta 515 miles avg speed 73.4 MPH 29.5 MPG
Atlanta to Sarasota 509 miles avg speed 70.8 MPG 31.2 MPG

The tire pressure was 35 psig,,,, too lazy to pump up prior to trip.

Other thing I did prior to trip was to clean and re oil my KKM intake.

Best I ever did was Pa to NY on 4.5 gallons or so 31.25mpg but that was like 3 years ago now I get an avg of 140mi in NYC driving on a 18 gallon tank (i think)maybe 19? so approx 7mpg city and 13 highway?

Best I ever did was Pa to NY on 4.5 gallons or so 31.25mpg but that was like 3 years ago now I get an avg of 140mi in NYC driving on a 18 gallon tank (i think)maybe 19? so approx 7mpg city and 13 highway?

Thats amazing mileage from a first generation.....

Please detail for us how you achieved this enviable mileage. What mods have you made? How fast were you driving?

Further, to what do you attribute the demise of the mileage?

Thanks….

Sarasota to Atlanta 515 miles avg speed 73.4 MPH 29.5 MPG
Atlanta to Sarasota 509 miles avg speed 70.8 MPG 31.2 MPG


Still looking good there. I too just cleaned and re-oiled the KKM.
I will update my mileage: (1st gen, 4x4 Sport, I now have AMSOIL synth throughout, Apten 93 performance program, big MAF, TB, etc.).

14.3 mpg in period 8/5/04 to 8/18/04 -- in town driving
15.3 mpg in period 6/13/04 to 6/28/04 -- in town driving
21.1 mpg in period 5/18/04 to 5/21/04 -- hwy driving 75 mph avg speed

-----------------------------
contrast, 1 year ago (before synth ATF):

13.5 mpg in period 8/22/2003 to 8/30/2003 -- in town driving

--------------------
contrast, 2 years ago (fewer mods):

12.5 mpg in period 7/8/2002 to 7/19/2002 -- in town driving

-------------------------------

For winter driving (which here, is only Dec, Jan, Feb) you can knock 1-2 mpg off those figures. I think 15/21 isn't too bad for a 1st gen 4.0 OHV truck!
The sticker figure was 15/20...

Oh, and I need to test, but I got 21.1 mpg at 75 mph; I should test at 70 mph or 68 mph, maybe I can get 22 or 23 mpg! I would really like that.

From Reno NV to San Jose Ca- I got 29.5 mpg! I went about 72-75 mph the whole way!!! I was pretty stoked until I got 23mph on the way back. On average, I get about 21-23 mph around town and 25 on the freeway.
I have a stock 97 SOHC with 107k miles (soon to receive 31" and 2" lift!!!). Aldive- that is amazing that you got 30! Congrats!!!

I've been thinking about those trip there and back discrepencies in mpg. Maybe it's because of the headwinds or tailwinds encountered. A 10 mph tailwind dosen't sound like it would make much difference, but with these aerodynamicly challenged vehicles, maybe it does.......???

It would be interesting to factor in the weather conditions on these long mpg runs, especially the wind direction and speed.

I consistently get 20mpg driving to work and back on a 2 lane country road. My speed varies between 25 and 75 mph (have to drive through a couple small towns on the way). I have a 91 Eddie Bauer 4x4, 5spd, 3.73 limited slip, no mods and 174,000 miles. I do very little city driving and very little interstate driving. I don't run the A/C much, I just open the windows and the sunroof. I have never gotten more than 23 mpg on a trip and no worse than 15mpg in the winter using 4x4. The tank is 18 gallons and I usually get 360 to 370 miles from a tank. I don't baby it at all and we have a lot of hills here in northern WV. I try to keep it over 2000 rpms because my high mileage transmission makes a lot of noise at lower rpms. I think my wifes 92 Navajo 5spd with 3.27 open rear gets similar mileage, but I don't drive it enough to know. I know her 98 XLT with an automatic and 3.73 limited slip is a little harder on gas though.

The tank is 18 gallons and I usually get 360 to 370 miles from a tank.

If you have a stock gas tank, yours is 19.3 gallons capacity.

I've been thinking about those trip there and back discrepencies in mpg. Maybe it's because of the headwinds or tailwinds encountered. A 10 mph tailwind dosen't sound like it would make much difference, but with these aerodynamicly challenged vehicles, maybe it does.......???

It might.. and I would also say that TERRAIN might make a big difference. For example, Reno, NV to San Jose, CA as mentioned above, thats overall a downhill drive. Reno is at 4000 feet ASL and San Jose is near sea level;
surely that has to make a difference.

On the other hand if you drove from San Jose (sea lvl) up to Reno, (4000 ft) the overall trip is uphill in the Sierra Nevada mtns. Does this sound like it might be a factor? Maybe 1 mpg difference??

If you have a stock gas tank, yours is 19.3 gallons capacity.

Hi Rhett, it's the stock gas tank, but I don't run it until it quits. When it gets to empty I refill it and it takes 18 gallons.

I'm lucky if I can squeeze out 15 mpg. It's more 13 around town.

If you have a stock gas tank, yours is 19.3 gallons capacity.

The stock gas tanks on the '91s were 18.3 gallons.

The stock gas tanks on the '91s were 18.3 gallons.

Now that's interesting. Do you know that for a fact? Where'd you hear that? I'd like to know if I'm wrong...

I have a '91. That's what it says in the manual.

On the other hand if you drove from San Jose (sea lvl) up to Reno, (4000 ft) the overall trip is uphill in the Sierra Nevada mtns. Does this sound like it might be a factor? Maybe 1 mpg difference??
Definitely is a factor. It was almost ALL uphill :thumbdwn: , but I was still surprised that it so well. I have been getting 20 recently with the winterized gas and my new 31's. Ooooh, I love 31's.\ :D

I have been using Fuel Power to see what effect it has on my mileage.

Take a look at http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=119311

I'd like to pipe up and verify what bellifritz is saying. I have a 91 EB 4x4 4.0L OHV with a 5 speed, just like he does. My year-to-date mpg average is 20.87. That's city, highway, everything (about 20k miles total). I'm gentle for the most part, but I don't have a problem accellerating to get through traffic when I need to. I'm completely stock and I carry a lot of spare parts/tools in the back (since it's a '91 with 163k miles, it's not an option, I *have* to keep that crap back there).

I'm really interested in the effects of synthetic fluids. I may consider starting to switch over to synthetic as I change out fluids... Especially since I'm in the process of a top end rebuild at the moment. It would be a perfect time to do it. Sadly, I just bought a replacement belt-driven fan for my Ex. It's not installed yet, but the old one is full of huge cracks.

Anywho, I think I'm going to start (slowly, I spend enough on this truck just keeping it alive) taking my Ex in this direction, as my wallet permits. Some of my family/friends keep talking to me about getting something like a civic or something for the commute. No reason to, if 30mpg is possible with the Ex!

Here is my recent experience. First, some info - 97 Explorer 2DR Sport AWD. No aerodynamic mods. Run with the roof racks (cross bars) off. SOHC V6, stock with 5-spd+OVD trans, stock 16 inch tires. Non-synthetic fluids. Don't know the axle ratio. Seldom use 4WD modes. Usually run with the windows up and seldom use AC except in the hottest days of summer here in Cleveland. We have specially formulated fuel to meet our EPA regulations. Finish is clean, waxed twice a year. Pretty much a vanilla EX. I do have a ScanGuage installed.

Some observations:

1) Filling up at the pump and reading the gallons pumped into the tank is by no means a consistent way of determining the gallons used, unless you sum the gallons over at least a dozen consecutive fillups. Pump cut off points, tilt and pitch of the vehicle at the time of fillup, temperature of the fuel, pump error (yes there is such a thing and it can be larger than you think and still pass an audit) all effect the actual quantity of fuel pumped into the vehicle.

2) Rapid acceleration vs slow acceleration. There are times when both are economical. I fly aircraft for a living and we have many profiles that dictate when to use full power all the way to cruise altitude and when to use a lesser power setting for climb segments. Yes, I know we're talking about land-based vehicles and the dynamics that go with them, but there are valid comparisons. In aircraft, it is generally better to use maximum allowed power settings in climb segments so as to arrive at the cruising altitude sooner, so that once leveled off you can set the economy cruise setting sooner and maintain that for a longer distance over a given leg. Not saying that WOT throttle in an EX is the way to go, but if you know once you get up to speed you will not be slowing again for sometime (ie getting on the Interstate), then perhaps using a modest acceleration up to cruise speed may be just as economical as a slower, longer acceleration profile. There is a happy median in there somewhere on the EX.

3) Wax. A smooth finish helps to some extent. I do not believe that a mirror finish brought on by many coats of wax is any more efficient than a relatively well-maintained finish. Laminar flow of the wind over the surface is the key. Laminar flow is the ability of the airflow to stay in smooth contact with the surface it is passing over. If the airflow separates, then turbulence is the result, causing the 'good' airflow to dam up behind the turbulence, causing even earlier separation, vacuum pockets to form and be filled with airflows disturbed further trying to fill them, etc. If the airflow stays glued to the surface, the pressure of the ambient air is less (remember Bernoulli?) and a given parcel of air passes over and exits beyond the vehicle more quickly (and with less pressure on the surface) than if disturbed by protrusions in the surface, designed or otherwise. It is not the same as a dimpled golf ball (much has been written on the flight of the golf-ball) and ball-peening the surface of the body will absolutely do harm to the airflow. In today's automobiles, the laminar flow separates fairly early (form vs function compromises), so windshield wipers present or not, etc have little effect on the aerodynamics of an automobile because many times the airflow is already turbulent by the time it makes it to the wipers. The EX is not the most aerodynamic vehicle to begin with - if you think it is, consider the latest Lamgorghini. Wax does little to maintain laminar flow - it's been proven in wind tunnels for a long time now.

4) Cruise control is not your friend. Ohhh GASP!! Driving with a light foot and varying speeds for the condition will beat cruise everytime. What I do is set the cruise for 5 MPH below where I want to cruise (let's say set it for 60 MPH). Then maintain 65 with a very light foot on level surfaces - I like the egshell description. When I start to go up a hill or any inlcine, no matter how slight, I do not increase my foot pressure on the throttle, instead letting the vehicle slow as per the condition. If it slows more than 5 MPH, I let the cruise control take over to at least keep up some highway speed. When going down a hill, I will either let the vehicle pickup a little speed or back off the throttle if I'm getting about 5 MPH over my cruise (70 MPH in this example). In contrast, cruise will attempt to maintain 65 MPH in all conditions - going up a hill then backing off too soon while going down the other side. Not effective energy management. Yeah, I probably drive some drivers nuts, but it surprising how little passign this profile actually affects. How can I tell this is more efficient? The ScanGauge - more on this below.

5. I saw a coment about Sat radio antennas. I just had sat radio installed in my EX and the installer placed the antenna on top of the dash in the far upper right corner. No drop outs, it's practically out of site unless you're looking for it, and the installation was simpler plus no holes in the body.

6. ScanGuage. A wonderful device. Has completely changed my driving habits. Reads the vehicle dynamics right over the OBD port. Forget about how many gallons the gas pump says, forget about how recording how many miles driven, forget about trying to track average speed. The ScanGauge does all this for a given trip leg plus gives you real-time dynamics like MPG and gallons per hour updated several times a second during the trip. This is an excellent way to develop an optimum economy profile for your vehicle. By the way, it also reads any codes over the port and will reset them as well. I originally got it to determine if I was going to have a problem with emissions testing and to determine if it was time for a tuneup by searching for any misfire codes, etc. My EX has 97k miles and original plugs, so I'm looking for signs a tune up is needed.

7) I do mostly local highway and city driving. However, the last trip I took was from Cleveland to Dayton, November 9. The ScanGauge said 204 miles (odometer agreed), using 8.1 gallons of gas - 25.18 MPG. The gas pump said 7.92 gallons when I got there (inaccuracies as described above but generally confirms the ScanGuage value). All cross-checked and accurate. I was very pleased and don't think I can do much better. I used the Scanguage quite often to see what the fuel consumption was for any given condition. Shows you that you can use a lighter foot and still get the same result. My overall goal is 22 MPG minimum for all my driving and I'm just barely getting that. Again, I think that is great for this vehicle, especially considering the EPA estimates for the vehicle are 14/19. This is about 30% better than before I got the ScanGuage. If we could all increase fuel economy by 30% by any means, we'd put OPEC out of business tomorrow.

8) It looks as though Al is getting 30 MPG or close to it overall based on his calculations and calculation methods. It might be due to the mods. I'm wondering how much he has invested in the mods in total. If I knew, I could compute how many miles I would have to drive with those mods in order to break even on the fuel cost. I think it would be far more than anyone thinks and possibly more than the vehicle has left in it.

My opinion only.

Cucumbers post is the most intelligent well thought out ever for the subject matter IMO, let a computing device do your calculations.
Have had a Scangauge for about 6 mos, a lotta bang for 99bux and it is dead nuts accurate.
Thx Cuke, great post

I'm proud to say that I will be purchasing a Scan Gauge after Christmas. I've heard that some won't read the MPG, what are my chances of that happening?

have used mine in an 02 eclipse, my trac, and a friends F150, worked in all

Yes, the vehicle speed is not reported real-time to the ScanGauge in my EX. Have had extensive support from the ScanGauge folks on this and it appears this is a parameter that just isn't reported when the ScanGauge requests it. Hence, no automatic MPG calculation. And, apparently my vehicle is the only one in the entire WORLD which doesn't report this over the OBD port. The ScanGauge works as advertised on all the other cars in our family. Go figure. In trip mode, the ScanGauge is reporting total miles driven, total gallons used, and average MPG - I just don't see the real-time 'instant' MPG reading.

However, Gallons per Hour is reported and displayed on the ScanGauge real-time on my EX. So, if I want to know what my MPG is at any given instant, I do a simple mental calc to get it - take the reported GPH, multiply by 10 and divide that into the current vehicle speed. For example, ScanGauge reads 1.4 GPH. Multiplied by 10 and divided into the speedometer reading of 42 gives you 3 and a fraction, or just over 30 miles per gallon. My EX does even a little better at 35 MPH. (Yeah, I know - I must sound like a geek - I deal in these calcs all the time in my job so it's become more or less second nature by now LOL!) My EX seems to be most efficient in the 35 to 50 MPH range. At 60 MPH, it drops down to 25 MPG, or 2.4 GPH. I don't drive much over 65 so I haven't seen enough data to comment on the higher speeds, but based on the physics alone I would have to say that the overall mileage is less at the higher speeds. In general I try to keep the GPH below 2.0 all the time (including acceleration) except when travelling at highway speeds or when the situation otherwise warrants it.

I will say that seeing the data real-time changes your outlook on driving if economy is your goal. Until you see it, you just have no idea what's really going on under the bonnet. It is possible to get excellent mileage, especially if you have the data, however I don't get what Al is getting at the speeds he mentions. My philosophy is take advantage of the economy situations when they present themselves, but don't obsess over it.

From Talking with Scangauge I think early 97 was the cutoff date for MPH not being to be reported Via the OBD port.
Never the less it is a great tool, with mine I get real Time MPH,MPG and GPH and can also call up all perameters for the previous day except fuel pres and manifold pres which is not applicable with my engine

Some of my family/friends keep talking to me about getting something like a civic or something for the commute. No reason to, if 30mpg is possible with the Ex!

Be aware that 30 mpg is NOT possible with your OHV engine.

Be aware that 30 mpg is NOT possible with your OHV engine.
Nor is it possible with any Explorer engine, except perhaps the new escape hybred.IMHO

It's true, I have the OHV engine. But stock, I'm getting nearly 21mpg as a yearly average. That's all the miles I've driven over the last year divided by all the gas I've purchased over the past year.

So if I were to add cat-backs, intake and switch to synthetic fluid, I shoud be able to achieve 25+ mpg, at least according to the anecdotal data found here. Now that I see that it's NOT possible though, it makes me want to see just how close I can come. :P

Spindlecone: Are you trying to say that Aldive's data are incorrect? I mean, sure, his numbers have a certain degree of inaccuracy due to pump inaccuracy, engine computer inaccuracy, etc, but I highly doubt that they're fabricated. Do you think he's just making them up for jollies?

(also, Spindlecone, in your sig, it's "their hootus", to show who owns the hootus, not "there hootus", which would denote the location of the afforementioned hootus. :)

Be aware that 30 mpg is NOT possible with your OHV engine.

I dunno about that. My old Explorer a '91 got up to 25MPG on the highway stock. Throw synthetics in it, a new air intake, exhaust, maybe a couple other mods and it might be up around 30MPG. That one is more of a rarity I'm sure but still possible I think.

It's true, I have the OHV engine. But stock, I'm getting nearly 21mpg as a yearly average. That's all the miles I've driven over the last year divided by all the gas I've purchased over the past year.

So if I were to add cat-backs, intake and switch to synthetic fluid, I shoud be able to achieve 25+ mpg, at least according to the anecdotal data found here. Now that I see that it's NOT possible though, it makes me want to see just how close I can come. :P

Spindlecone: Are you trying to say that Aldive's data are incorrect? I mean, sure, his numbers have a certain degree of inaccuracy due to pump inaccuracy, engine computer inaccuracy, etc, but I highly doubt that they're fabricated. Do you think he's just making them up for jollies?

(also, Spindlecone, in your sig, it's "their hootus", to show who owns the hootus, not "there hootus", which would denote the location of the afforementioned hootus. :)
Not Saying Al fabricated anything,I just feel that there is an error in calculation or what the ecm is reporting 32.1 MPG at an average speed of 67.8MPH is not possible IMO , never could spell:)

So if I were to add cat-backs, intake and switch to synthetic fluid, I shoud be able to achieve 25+ mpg, at least according to the anecdotal data found here. Now that I see that it's NOT possible though, it makes me want to see just how close I can come. :P

I didn't mean nuthin by it, I just didn't want you to get any false hopes. Aldives SOHC engine sips gas compared to our OHV engine.

You're already getting excellent mileage (yours being a 5-speed helps it)--and this is only possible because you obviously must keep your engine in tune--else you couldn't get 20 mpg--but don't expect to shoot more than 24-25 mpg highway with mods. 20 mpg mixed is incredible mileage for a OHV 1st gen to begin with. Equates to 18/22!

Not Saying Al fabricated anything,I just feel that there is an error in calculation or what the ecm is reporting 32.1 MPG at an average speed of 67.8MPH is not possible IMO , never could spell:)

Some time ago there was a discussion of the calc method. Am I correct on this?

You fill up on 11/19/04. You drive 240 miles in the next week or two. On 12/2/04 you go to get gas, and it takes 16.8 gallons to fill the tank. So you've used 16.8 gallons of gas during that time. You've gotten 14.29 mpg in the period 11/19/04 to 12/02/04.

That's 240/16.8 = 14.29 mpg

Isn't this correct? Seems correct to me, and accurate as long as you fill to the click-off and don't put any extra in.

Some time ago there was a discussion of the calc method. Am I correct on this?

You fill up on 11/19/04. You drive 240 miles in the next week or two. On 12/2/04 you go to get gas, and it takes 16.8 gallons to fill the tank. So you've used 16.8 gallons of gas during that time. You've gotten 14.29 mpg in the period 11/19/04 to 12/02/04.

That's 240/16.8 = 14.29 mpg

Isn't this correct? Seems correct to me, and accurate as long as you fill to the click-off and don't put any extra in.
Thats correct, but as Cucumber explains are to many variables to the calculation.
Am certain Als distance covered is correct via GPS but the exact amt of fuel he used is ballpark, even so given a 10% error rate, it's great MPG

Thats correct, but as Cucumber explains are to many variables to the calculation.

Are there? I don't understand at all Cucumber's questioning of fuel used.
He questions it on grounds of not having a measuring capability; rather he should be questioning it on grounds of differences in tank capacity, pump shut-off, etc. That I can see. But questioning fuel use? I don't see that.

Just because you can't measure fuel use on a GPS does not mean that you cannot get pretty exact fuel use figures. It can be an absolutely KNOWN quantity, every time. If you drive 56 miles, and refill requires 3.6 gallons to top off, you've gotten 56/3.6 = 15.6 mpg. If your refill requires 3.8 gallons to top off, you've gotten 14.7 mpg. You used a little more gas, and gotten a little less mileage.

There might be differences in when pumps click off, and with capacities of tanks being off .1 or .2 gal. From this, as you said, 10% error either way is conceivable on mileage calcs. I just don't see determining gas used as a significant error factor. At least gas used is a KNOWN quantity. Gas pump or slight tank differences are unknown quantities.

I must be oversimplifying it or something, but I see no problem with determining the amount of fuel used each time you do a mileage calc.

There are only two real variables in this calculation, and both have small amounts of error associated with them. Depending on how you calculate your MPG, you can minimize one or the other or both. Here's why:

1) The first value is distance. Aldive can minimize his error here by using his GPS system, which should be fairly accurate. Most of us are going to use the odometer, or revolutions of the driveshaft, or something similar. These types of measurements have small errors in them due to the fact that your tires are rarely the exact right circumference to make your odometer correct. Even if they are right now, they won't be in just a few thousand miles, after some tread wear. This error adds up over time, if you measure this way, so just keep this in mind.

2) Gallons of fuel used. If you're looking at a single trip, then you have two choices for how you measure your fuel consumed. You can go top-off to top-off, which would yield error based on the pump calibration. You could alternately go off the OBDII reports from the fuel injector computer. I have no idea how accurate that is, but I suspect it's pretty spot on. As for the top-off to top-off method, that error is very small if you take several fillups into account, since you'll be including miles from many trips, but only the fillup error from one fillup.

All in all, I think it would be exceedingly hard to get even as much as 10% error in Aldive's calculations. Does anyone know what the maximum allowable pump discrepancy is in Florida and Georgia (where it seems that Al does most of his driving, I think)? If we knew that number, then we could calculate the maximum error in his numbers, assuming legal pumps.

I think the math being used is very accurate. Been doing it for more years than I can remember. Plus my friend has a late 80'sor early 90's Suburban that gets like 25 mpg on road trips. It's lowered two inches and properly maintained(he builds hot rods for a living at his house). So everything he has runs properly. it has a 350 TBI. ( plus he is one of those paw-paw drivers) This is just to let all non-believers know that it is possible. ALso my old 88'mustang gt which ran 13.98 1/4mile got an average of 31 mpg from Jacksonville, Fl. to Monterey Ca. After my mods I left the rear gears at 2.73
Just my $.02

Heading to Atlanta and that area for a few days in the morning.

Will be evaluating mileage again on this 1300 mile trip.

The run from Sarasota to Atlanta will by on my 87 octane mileage program using Mobil 87 gas. This should be about 550 miles.

The running around in Georgia will be on the 93 mileage program using Amoco/BP 93 octane gas. The all highway return trip will also be on the 93 burn and Amoco/BP gas.

The only thing :new" is the fact that I will be running Fuel Power in the gas.

We shall see how it does in a few days ....

Al, why do you come to Atlanta so much? Is it because you can't get enough of that "ATL" style? :D

Al, why do you come to Atlanta so much? Is it because you can't get enough of that "ATL" style? :D

I have family there and I own a ranch up there.

I found the information I needed. In the USA, gas pump accuracy is measured in cubic inches. At sixty degrees fahrenheit, a gallon of gas is 231 cubic inches liquid. The test for gas pump accuracy is to fill a 5 gallon "prover" with what the pump claims is five gallons of gasoline. The pump is allowed to be over or under the correct value by six cubic inches.

5 * 231 = 1155 cubic inches of gas in 5 gallons
6 / 1155 = .005

So a fuel pump is allowed to be off by +/- one half of one percent. What this means for this discussion is that since we can (hopefully) neglect any error from aldive's GPS, since it should measure distance fairly accurately, we should also be able to neglect error from the fuel pumps, since if they're legal, they're not really contributing much error to the calculation.

Just retirned from a 1400 mile trip. Some mileage data is now available.

The driver of my Explorer for the entire trip was my lead footed, jack rabbit starting son.

The first leg of the trip was from Sarasota, FL to Atlanta, GA. There were two adults in the truck. The mileage was 523. The average speed was 81.4 MPH and the mileage netted 28.9 MPG. This was using Mobil 87 gas with Fuel Power. I use the same Mobil station for fill up every time in Sarasota, therefore the pump automatic cut off point should be more or less the same each time.

The next several hundred miles was in town driving with some highway driving and I did not determine mileage since I am interested in only the highway only mileage. We did switch to the 93 program and used Amoco 93 gas; fully taking advantage of that cheap(er) Georgia gas.

The return leg from Atlanta to Sarasota was run using Amoco 93 gas ( using the same station every trip ), supplemented with Fuel Power, with the SCT Programmer switching to the 93 mileage program. This trip was 512 miles, average speed was 76.4 MPH, and the mileage was 31.4 MPG. This portion of the trip had 3 adults as well as a dog and a fully loaded truck.

My thoughts: Speed kills, I am certain that the trip speed and driving procedure definitely cost mileage. It appears that Fuel Power indeed enhances mileage.

I use the same Mobil station for fill up every time in Sarasota, therefore the pump automatic cut off point should be more or less the same each time.

That is what I do. I try to get gas at the same pump, same station, each time. (of course, if I travel, that's not possible.) I've been using BP gas. Perhaps I should switch to Mobil. ??


My thoughts: Speed kills, I am certain that the trip speed and driving procedure definitely cost mileage. It appears that Fuel Power indeed enhances mileage.

Will it be a long-term improvement, or do you have to add Fuel Power to each tank to see the effects?

Will it be a long-term improvement, or do you have to add Fuel Power to each tank to see the effects?

Fuel Power is designed to be used with each tank at the rate of 1 oz/5 gal gas.

Fuel Power is designed to be used with each tank at the rate of 1 oz/5 gal gas.

Have you ever used AMSOIL Performance Improver (Amsoil PI)? It sounds similar to Fuel Power. If you have used PI, have you seen similar improvements?

Have you ever used AMSOIL Performance Improver (Amsoil PI)? It sounds similar to Fuel Power. If you have used PI, have you seen similar improvements?

I have not tried the Amsoil product.

Sounds good so far. Let us know the long-term effects of using Fuel Power. Will it continue to give you good mileage on your next tank? The tank after that? I think this will be the key piece of information regarding FP. Long term benefit. And cost vs. gas $$ saved.

And cost vs. gas $$ saved.

This will be a tough one since there are such intangables involved such as how smooth it idles, etc. But, I shall be keeping my eye on the mileage gains as well as the other factors.

Al, would you be willing to share your Blackstone Labs oil analysis numbers??

Oil analysis data....

ALUMINUM 7
CHROMIUM 2
IRON 20
COPPER 18
LEAD 20
TIN 3
MOLYBDENUM 8
NICKEL 3
MANGANESE 1
SILVER 0
TITANIUM 0
POTASSIUM 4
BORON 6
SILICON 14
SODIUM 8
CALCIUM 2398
MAGNESIUM 333
PHOSPHORUS 916
ZINC 1288
BARIUM 0
__________________

Oil analysis data....

ALUMINUM 7
CHROMIUM 2
IRON 20
COPPER 18
LEAD 20
TIN 3
MOLYBDENUM 8
NICKEL 3
MANGANESE 1
SILVER 0
TITANIUM 0
POTASSIUM 4
BORON 6
SILICON 14
SODIUM 8
CALCIUM 2398
MAGNESIUM 333
PHOSPHORUS 916
ZINC 1288
BARIUM 0
__________________
Zinc is a little on the highside, Boron could be a little lower, overall, looks good al :eek:A little barium might do ya well :D

i get about 16.. not too shabby for a 93 OHV with 115,000 miles and only 1 rust spot, thats right, i said only 1.. i should win all ford nationals with that lol

Oil analysis data....

ALUMINUM 7 2
CHROMIUM 2 1
IRON 20 10
COPPER 18 66 I used to use Restore, it hasn't been flushed out yet
LEAD 20 35 I used to use Restore, it hasn't been flushed out yet
TIN 3 3
MOLYBDENUM 8 4
NICKEL 3 0
MANGANESE1 13
SILVER 0 0
TITANIUM 0 0
POTASSIUM 4 6
BORON 6 37
SILICON 14 3
SODIUM 8 7
CALCIUM 2398 2239
MAGNESIUM 333 787
PHOSPHORUS 916 817
ZINC 1288 973
BARIUM 0 0
__________________
Thanks Al, my numbers are next to yours.

1994 4.0 OHV 136,380 total miles 3,200 on this sample.

i wish i got 30mpg

That's an interesting oil analysis comparison, Al & Albino. Do you both use Mobile1? The samples look very good to me.

Albino, your silicon is extremely low. Do you use a normal paper air filter? Maybe the rain in Washington keeps the dust washed away....?

We both use Amsoil.

I have a K&N drop in and I don't get into the dirt that much.

His sample was at 3k miles mine was at more than double that.

30 MPG and 80 MPH seems to be an impossible dream.

On a recent trip to North Florida for a family gathering at to look at a 1 year ild Britney bitch we drove 489 miles. No refils during the trip.

There were three of is in the truck. average speed was 78.9 MPH, the fuel used was Amoco/BO 93 with Fuel Power at the rate of 1 oz/5 gal, the mileage was 28.3 MPG. My son was driving the entire trip.

Speed kills... mileage too.

I am going to try a couple of economy based programs in my SCT tuner after Christmas.

any semi non expensive mods that can be done to a 94 explorer sport ot get some better gas milage on the highway??

any semi non expensive mods that can be done to a 94 explorer sport ot get some better gas milage on the highway??

I would start with a complete switch to synthetic fluids.

are there any places that will change the fluids to synthetic or is there a place for me to find info on how to change the fluids

are there any places that will change the fluids to synthetic or is there a place for me to find info on how to change the fluids

Right here on this site is some good info on that. And it's not just synth fluids that will help your mileage. Keeping your truck in tune with regular maintenance will do wonders. So does a light foot. And always remember that our trucks (1st gens) will never get as good mileage as the 2nd gens with the SOHC engine. They sip gas. Our trucks gulp it. If you can get over 20 mpg on the highway in a 1st gen 4x4 with an auto transmission, you're doing quite well, based on the results of others I've seen here.

I have the same truck as you, except I have done some mods--some have given me better mileage--and some have given me worse mileage:

++ mileage:
synth fluid in front and rear diffs (this helped my mileage some)
synth ATF (this helped my mileage a lot)
synth oil (I use AMSOIL 10W-30 weight--thinking about going 0-30 though)
KKM air filter (thinking about smooth intake tube)
2.5" mandrel-bent exhaust and aftermarket muffler (I use magnaflow)
what else
aftermarket computer program (I have apten/diablo)

minus (-) mileage mods:
pushbar (50+ lbs weight plus bad aerodynamics)
Lund SunVisor (50+ lbs weight plus bad aerodynamics)
fogs mounted to push bar (bad aerodynamics)
roof rack (bad aero)
all-terrain tire tread (yes, this is a minus to mileage)

undetermined effect on mileage:
larger MAF
larger TB
bigger spark plug gap (still experimenting with this)
Jacobs plug wires

And of course other things like adding an electric fan would help your mileage. I just haven't done that with my truck. The cumulative effect of my mods has been:

May 2000: 13/18 mpg
Oct 2004: 15/22 mpg

I'm on a pretty tight budget. Which ones of those are worth spending the couple extra bucks on to get better highway mileage. I'm on the highway most of the time and was just trying to make sure that I dont over spend on changes that will send me into negative #'s. I'm looking to get better gas mileage but if it means spending more to make it better than ot just pay the few extra dollars please tell me

I think Al's secret is he cut a hole in the floor and drives it like fred flinstone :p

I'm on a pretty tight budget. Which ones of those are worth spending the couple extra bucks on to get better highway mileage. I'm on the highway most of the time and was just trying to make sure that I dont over spend on changes that will send me into negative #'s. I'm looking to get better gas mileage but if it means spending more to make it better than ot just pay the few extra dollars please tell me

Please be advised that the synergistic effect of the various components allow for the enhanced mileage.

If I were going to do one thing to enhance mileage, I probably would make the switch to synthetic fluids.

Good luck ...........

I think Al's secret is he cut a hole in the floor and drives it like fred flinstone :p

I don't think 4WD EX's will ever get what Als 2WD EX gets. But their are still good tips in Als thread that will pertain to all EX's.

Today I did a road test to (1) appraise a new computer tune (2) evaluate the new Garmin 2620 StreetPilot GPS and (3) eat lunch at a great Chinese restaurant in Tampa, FL.

The journey was 126 miles ( total ) average speed was 67.8 MPH and the mileage was 32.8 MPG. The tune tested was not written for max mileage and yet did a formidable job in that respect. A supplementary review of this tune will be posted soon.

The trip was driven entirely with the voice commands from the 2620 ( with the Tampa location programmed in for the rout and the reciprocal was to my home in Sarasota ). I was beyond impressed; this GPS was dead accurate at every turn and to the destination ( both ways ).

The Sweet and Sour Pork was nearly worth the trip.

Al
any plans of getting Dynoed before your tune review?

Al
any plans of getting Dynoed before your tune review?

I have 3 more tunes that I have yet to road test before any dyno tune ( fine tune the tune ) evaluation.

I have 3 more tunes that I have yet to road test before any dyno tune ( fine tune the tune ) evaluation.
Thats great, can't wait to see the graphs

Today I did a road test to (1) appraise a new computer tune (2) evaluate the new Garmin 2620 StreetPilot GPS and (3) eat lunch at a great Chinese restaurant in Tampa, FL.

The journey was 126 miles ( total ) average speed was 67.8 MPH and the mileage was 32.8 MPG. The tune tested was not written for max mileage and yet did a formidable job in that respect. A supplementary review of this tune will be posted soon.

The trip was driven entirely with the voice commands from the 2620 ( with the Tampa location programmed in for the rout and the reciprocal was to my home in Sarasota ). I was beyond impressed; this GPS was dead accurate at every turn and to the destination ( both ways ).

The Sweet and Sour Pork was nearly worth the trip.
What resturant? :D

What resturant? :D

P F Changs

http://www.pfchangs.com/

P F Changs

http://www.pfchangs.com/
Small world
Phinnius fosgate Chang and I were dormies at UCSB, 1963-65 :D

P F Changs

http://www.pfchangs.com/
You know, I have been a bit unsatisified by PF Changs recently... I dunno why but the quality has been suffering IMHO.

I assume you went to the PF Changs at westshore mall? (Which also means you were about a mile and a half away from me) There are a few other great oriental places around here... a few that deserve notable mention are TC Choys, The Bamboo Flute, Indosheen(sp?), and this place on Dale Mabery touted as "the best sushi in the world" (it's not, but its really good ;))


You got excellent milage though... :thumbsup:

You know, I have been a bit unsatisified by PF Changs recently... I dunno why but the quality has been suffering IMHO.

I assume you went to the PF Changs at westshore mall?

and this place on Dale Mabery touted as "the best sushi in the world" (it's not, but its really good:

I was not at all impressed with (1) the service (2) the food (3) the parking at the Mal ( should have never gone on a Saturday ). I will not go there again.

Yes, at Westshore Mall. If I had known you were that close, you could have certain ally joined us for lunch ( my treat ).

I do not eat "bait". :)

I was not at all impressed with (1) the service (2) the food (3) the parking at the Mal ( should have never gone on a Saturday ). I will not go there again.

Yes, at Westshore Mall. If I had known you were that close, you could have certain ally joined us for lunch ( my treat ).

I do not eat "bait". :)
I agree with all of the above, certainly there are better spots in tampa to enjoy (another is "The Yellow Door" on howard, albeit a bit pricey)

Also, I would be glad to sit down for lunch with you sometime, altough I will be happy to pay, LoL I think I can pay for lunch if I drop $300 on a whim into an air purifier :p

And, hey, bait is good :D ... now I wouldn't go chomping on any old greenback, but the best single bit of food I have ever had was a nice bit of eel sushi, and it was throughly cooked thankyouverymuch :p

Al, do you travel to Tampa to eat often? That seems like quite a trip, although I must admit there are quite a few nice places to eat around here :)

Al, do you travel to Tampa to eat often? That seems like quite a trip, although I must admit there are quite a few nice places to eat around here :)

I travel to Tampa often, though not to eat Chinese. My trips are based on visit to marine aquarium stores. I often visit Marine Warehouse
on W Hillsbotough. A bonus is the fact that there is a Wing House a few shops away.

I travel to Tampa often, though not to eat Chinese. My trips are based on visit to marine aquarium stores. I often visit Marine Warehouse
on W Hillsbotough. A bonus is the fact that there is a Wing House a few shops away.
Oddly enough I eat there for lunch about once a week because it is less than a block from my school ;)

Yesterday I made a run down to the hunting camp to have lunch with my son and some friends. I drove faster than I normally do on I 75 ( 75-80 MPH ) and then had to drive at 2 MPH for 16 miles on a dirt trail ( it took hours to clean my truck this morning ) to get to the camp.

The average speed for the trip was not calculated due to the dissimilar driving patterns and would be insignificant. I did compute the mileage, which was very disappointing for me, a paltry 26.8 MPG. All things considered, I reckon this was still exceptional mileage.

I was still running the computer tune from the previous post. I have to admit this was a very fun tune to drive. The mid range power was amazing. This is definitely a pleasurable tune to drive,

Thought I would chime in, my totally stock 93ex gets about 14 mpg if i'm lucky, about 20 on the highway, my best was 23 on the highway. My next truck/suv will have a v8, most of my friends have v8 trucks and suv's and they only get a couple miles less per gallon, WTF mine as well get a v8, at least you would have some power. I'm not sure if i'm going to keep the ex do to the mileage factor, i'm actually thinking about going to bigger tires, I know this won't help but at this point, i think i might, at least it would look better. The sad part is, i sold my camaro due to insane insurance rates, i got damn near 30mpg on the highway, for as much gas as this thing uses, i should of kept that car even though insurance was twice as much, but for the price of gas and the amount of consumption, they would of been about = in the end, plus the camaro was twice the fun factor minus the snow and occasional offroad in the ex. The only mod if u wanna call it that is i switched to manual hubs, i did notice the increase in mileage, also changed spark plugs at 100,000, also noticed a difference. Love the site

I just spent forever reading this thread. There are some good ideas here. I think I will try to incorporate some on them into my explorer. I just bought mine last week and have only checked the mileage once. I seem to have managed 18.33 MPG. Since it was the trip home from the dealer, I did not baby it at all. I have a heavy right foot. :rolleyes: Sort of like aldive's son.

It is an '01 explorer, 4X4, 4.0 SOHC, and 4.10 trac-lock, with 255/75/R16 tires. I drove it just over 200 miles. Part of it was turnpike (75-80), highway (65-70), city (stop and go), and some very curvy hilly 2 lane (30-60).

Does 18.33 MPG seem about right for how I drove it? I assume it has improve some now that I quit driving it that hard. I need to check it again.

Later,
Brian_B

that seems right,I highly doubt anyone could get 30+ mpg on an explorer.That is just insanely wrong!!!
I think he is doing this by gps asfar as miles traveled if i am reading this correctly???
i would have to say that his gps is way off..
He lives in sarasota florida and I am in Mass. right now but just moved up here from 14 years in tampa florida and there is no traffic like there is down there t is just plain mental. stop and go stop and go which would kill any mileage.

Just my 2 cents,

my 95 explorer gets maybe 16
my 2002 gets 14 with my wife driving 17

Does 18.33 MPG seem about right for how I drove it? I assume it has improve some now that I quit driving it that hard. I need to check it again.

Welcome to Explorer ownership.

Your mileage doesn't appear out of wack based on your aggressive driving style, the combo course than you completed, the gears and the fact that you are 4 x 4.

Good luck with your new ride ....

that seems right,I highly doubt anyone could get 30+ mpg on an explorer.That is just insanely wrong!!!

I think he is doing this by gps asfar as miles traveled if i am reading this correctly???
i would have to say that his gps is way off..

He lives in sarasota florida and I am in Mass. right now but just moved up here from 14 years in tampa florida and there is no traffic like there is down there t is just plain mental. stop and go stop and go which would kill any mileage.

A rather bold statement you make. If you read these boards, you will see there are many Explorers getting 23-25 MPG highway and their owners are not as concerned with mileage as I am.

GPS is an incredable measuring device. The GPS that I currently use, Garmin 2620 StreetPilot ( http://www.garmin.com/products/sp2620/ ) is one of the best available, offering WAAS-enabled support to ensure the highest degree of GPS accuracy. GPS units have a screen that displays their current accuracy; mine averages 14 feet. My previous GPS ( Garmin III + ) had similar if not even better accuracy.

If you read carefully, you will see that most of my mileage reports are based on highway diving ( mostly I 75 ). The traffic in Sarasota is no where like you describe, sorry.

Not bold!!!! Just my opinion that is all.after driving my explorer for a few years i can not even get 200 miles on a tank and that is filling up at 1/4 tank...
I have read alot on these boards and find very few that have gotten even close to 25...I have a V-6 and i can't imagine if i had a V-8...

And again just my 2 cents ...
Sorry to get you upset in just an opinion...

It still amazes me how wonderful your mileage is. I still have never been able to push over 25 MPG in the Explorer. My Contour is getting around 24 MPG now, and it's a small car. I was able to keep a constant 29 MPG rating, with a rare 30, but it has dropped down to the mide to lower 20s recently.

Part of it is my old Mobil 1 oil, another is that my tire pressure is 28 PSI, and another is the girlfriend...she seems to think that jack rabbit starts are good for the car. I for one have never pushed any 3 of the Fords over 2K RPMs in any normal acceleration. The Explorer especially never has to go over 2K to get itself moving at a good pace.

Al, didn't you say you run the Tornado hootis? Any MPG difference with that? (I've seen the dyno sheet thread of that, obviously no gain)

Al, didn't you say you run the Tornado hootis? Any MPG difference with that? (I've seen the dyno sheet thread of that, obviously no gain)

No, I never said that, never have used it and never will.

I've got a 1994 XL 4.0L OHV and I get about 12mpg... that's city, and I have a leadfoot. Also the reason you got such great milage is you have the OHC engine.... LUCKY @$)@*) Oh well, like most people have mentioned if we wanted economy we wouldn't have bought an SUV. I may inherit my grandpa's cavalier when he gets rid of it.... i think it's a 2.2 L 4 banger... milage city :-P

4x4 gets worse gas mileage??? how is that

More weight to lug around.

Thought I would chime in, my totally stock 93ex gets about 14 mpg if i'm lucky, about 20 on the highway, my best was 23 on the highway. My next truck/suv will have a v8, most of my friends have v8 trucks and suv's and they only get a couple miles less per gallon, WTF mine as well get a v8, at least you would have some power. I'm not sure if i'm going to keep the ex do to the mileage factor, i'm actually thinking about going to bigger tires, I know this won't help but at this point, i think i might, at least it would look better. The sad part is, i sold my camaro due to insane insurance rates, i got damn near 30mpg on the highway, for as much gas as this thing uses, i should of kept that car even though insurance was twice as much, but for the price of gas and the amount of consumption, they would of been about = in the end, plus the camaro was twice the fun factor minus the snow and occasional offroad in the ex. The only mod if u wanna call it that is i switched to manual hubs, i did notice the increase in mileage, also changed spark plugs at 100,000, also noticed a difference. Love the site

14 and 20 on the highway puts you into the high mileage catagory for a 1993 EX. Great gas mileage.

Not bold!!!! Just my opinion that is all.after driving my explorer for a few years i can not even get 200 miles on a tank and that is filling up at 1/4 tank...
I have read alot on these boards and find very few that have gotten even close to 25...I have a V-6 and i can't imagine if i had a V-8...

And again just my 2 cents ...
Sorry to get you upset in just an opinion...

No, that was pretty bold of you to say. If you'd read through the thread and some others in which adlive participates, you'd see that he's basically a professor in "Explorerology." I don't know another person on this board (with over 25,000 members) that is more technical or fanatical in his attention to detail then him. I don't doubt for a minute his claims; he puts way too much effort into his "quest" and into this site to be making a word up.

If you can't get more then 200 on 3/4 of a tank, there's something wrong. You're a leadfoot, bad driving conditions, low tire pressure, mechanical issue...something's not right. Because I get 240-300 out of a tank in my truck, depending on how much highway I drive, and I am somewhere inbetween a leadfood and adlive.

Great job, Aldive. I have a 95 Limited with 4.0 OHV and I find that I am regularly getting 340-350 miles per tank with tire pressures set at 36psi. After following your exploits, I am going to work dilligently to see how much of an improvement I can make. An electric fan is definitely in my future thanks to you. And since I do no offroading, I will be looking for tires with more of an all season tread pattern instead of these very noisy and inefficient Wranglers.

Al, ever look into those "High Mileage" oils? Or does anyone have any info on those?

Al, ever look into those "High Mileage" oils? Or does anyone have any info on those?

I have read about these oils and no I have never tried them.

To quote from Penzoil about their High Mileage Vehicle™ Motor Oils:

Helps restore engine performance and extend engine life.
Provides enhanced protection for worn engine parts.
Helps prevent engine leaks and oil burn off.
Helps condition seals in older engines.
Has excellent anti-aging detergent to help keep engine clean.
Helps protect engine from overheating.


These oils, in my opinion, are for older, maybe neglected, motors. I shall stick to the best synthetic oils, thank you.

Great job, Aldive. I have a 95 Limited with 4.0 OHV and I find that I am regularly getting 340-350 miles per tank with tire pressures set at 36psi. After following your exploits, I am going to work dilligently to see how much of an improvement I can make. An electric fan is definitely in my future thanks to you. And since I do no offroading, I will be looking for tires with more of an all season tread pattern instead of these very noisy and inefficient Wranglers.

Dang, that's a pretty great average mileage from a 10 year old 4.0. How much of that driving is highway? I only get that many miles out of a tank if its 100% highway.

If you can't get more then 200 on 3/4 of a tank, .


I Just filled up yesterday after 90% of highway driving I went 223 miles and about a hair above empty. and that is putting about18 gallons into it.Pretty dammm sucky... But I can not expect much more . I did check yesterday my 33 Bfg AT KO's and they were ever soo low i think the air pressure was 19 to 20 so i brought them back up to about 40 PSI. hope that would help a little.

Dang, that's a pretty great average mileage from a 10 year old 4.0. How much of that driving is highway? I only get that many miles out of a tank if its 100% highway.
Highway to street use is about 50/50 with a lot of hills in this area.

On a recent trip to Naples, FL, I evaluated the ATF temperature with and w/o the Cool Collar ( http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1149575#post1149575 ) as well as tested two computer tunes for gas mileage.

The tunes were:
(1) Hypnotic Illusions ( http://www.hypillauto.com/ ) 93 max power
(2) Hypnotic Illusions 93 economy

The gas mileage was determined from a 100 mile run. Average speed ( GPS determined ) for (1) was 71.24 MPH and (2) was 70.85 MPH.

MPG
(1) 28.4
(2) 29.7

Other than the harsh shifting with these two tunes ( reported http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=127945&highlight=tunes ), the performance was good and the mileage excellent.

The only comfort I can take is that we have a gas war going on in town between Wal-Mart and Sheetz, and right now I'm only paying .77/gal :D


Where is that? Its almost worth the drive for me just to fill up my wife's Excursion. :navajo:

Tony

I am new on the forum. I am also amazed at the gas mileage that is being reported. I have a 1998 EB, V8, AWD, and I am getting about 21 mpg on the road. Probably 14 in town. Please help me with some of these terms.

OHV
SOHC
Scanguage
SCT Programmer
Apten Chip

Is the bolt on air dam for the front bumber still an option? Is it after market.

Thanks for the help. I am just beginning to learn about the Explorer. My Eddie Bauer has a lot of nice features and is really nice on the road.

I am new on the forum. Please help me with some of these terms.

OHV
SOHC
Scanguage
SCT Programmer
Apten Chip

Is the bolt on air dam for the front bumber still an option? Is it after market.
.

Lets solve the definations first:

OHV - overhead valve engine
SOHC - single overhead cam engine
Scanguage - ( http://www.scangauge.com/ )
SCT Programmer - ( an instrument used to install computer tunes )
Apten Chip - an aftermarket computer chip ( used to be a great company, they have fallen out of favor die to lousy customer service )

The air dam that I have is aftermarket it is from Explorer Express ( http://www.explorerexpress.com/catalog/pages/airdam.html )

Hope this helps. If you have more questions, pleas ask away ....

Thanks Aldive. I appreciate the info.

So, is the SOHC no longer available? Are all newer Explorers OHV?

Thanks Aldive. I appreciate the info.

So, is the SOHC no longer available? Are all newer Explorers OHV?

No, the SOHC is available ( not sure about the OHV ). Further, the SOHC will quite possibly be getting many more performance goodies for it now that is it available in the Mustang also.

So, is the SOHC no longer available? Are all newer Explorers OHV? The last production year for the 4.0 OHV was 2000. I have one of the last of the OHVs in my 2000 Sport.

OK, so you get 30 mpg by just driving like an old lady? I guess using the GPS number instead of the odo numbers helps a little too.

I've gathered a lot of tips from great guys like Aldive, in trying to improve the mileage I'm getting on my 95 X Limited 4X4 with OHV V6. Last week I took a trip from Rockland County in NY to Washington DC, a distance of just over 320 miles each way, with my X loaded with 4 adults and luggage for 3 days. The trip down was in freezing rain and we drove at approximately 70 mph with 4wd engaged and climate control (with defroster) in operation to keep windows fog-free and regular use of cruise control and timing to avoid heavy stop and go traffic periods on the interstates. Mileage came out to 21.6 mpg.

The return trip was a little less eventful with milder, dryer weather where the climate control system was turned to VENT, preventing cycling of the A/C compressor. Same load (plus a few souvenirs) and distance with the same stops for tolls and bathroom breaks :rolleyes: yielded a mileage of 24.9 mpg.

Modifications? Tire pressures increased to 40 psi, tranny, diff, and transfer cases filled with Royal Purple synthetic lubricants (75W90 in the diff), engine filled with Castrol Syntec 5W30, TPS (throttle position sensor) adjusted to 0.96 volts at idle, K&N air filter, new thermostat, new accessory drive belt, and SeaFoam treatment. Nothing more.

My plan is to repack wheel bearings with the best available grease, remove the crossmembers from the factory luggage rack, and install an electric fan in a few months before this trip is repeated. I will also be searching this forum intently for anything that might squeeze out another foot per gallon.

So how did I do, Aldive?

So how did I do, Aldive?

You did great; I am proud.

It is a very nice airdam you have on your explorer, Aldive (quite expensive too), and phenomenal mileage. I have the same truck (same year/engine and even similar color with 110,00 kms on it), and my mileage sucks on it (I do about 300 km to a tank of regular 87 octane, that's about 230-245 miles... the mileage used to be better when I got the truck, before I actually started messing with it).
I'm a beginner and don't really want to get into any heavy modifications (I'm still paying it off), therefore I'd like to know what would be the main mods, in your opinion, that would increase the milage without taking the engine apart, etc... Here's what I've done to the truck since I got it about a year and three months ago:

-Mobil1 5w30 synthetic oil + synthetic oil Fram filter.
-New NAPA Gold air filter.
-Transmission flushed with Quaker State semi-synthetic ATF (Mercon V), new gasket and trans filter installed.
-New Ford recommended differential fluids (80W90 in front, heavier synthetic fluid with friction modifier in the back, both Motorcraft from Ford dealer).
-New transfer case fluid (Mobil1 synthetic Mercon ATF).
-New radiator fluid (Prestone, mixed with distilled water).
-Bosch +4 spark plugs, I'm planning on changing those to Motorcrafts, double or triple platinums.
-New PCV valve (Motorcraft).
-Cleaned the IAC valve approx. 4 moths ago (helped in cold/humid starting).
-Ford repaired the cam and timing chain tensioners on warranty due to rattling, and replaced the front links/balljoint due to front end noise when driven.
-NOT YET DONE: Alignment and re-balance the tires (tires are pretty worn 4 season Michelins, probably the originals). Will do these things as soon as budget allows.

I'm getting new performance/heavy duty 8.5mm plug wires pretty soon as well to replace the originals. It seems to me like I've done quite a lot, but my mileage still sucks. I was going to get a K&N air filter, but the last one I had almost killed my previous car by leaking the red filter oil into the carburator, so I'm not so sure about K&N's anymore (it happened after a filter cleaning). Any input would be very welcome, thanks! :)

(I'm still paying it off), :)


On a 1999????
or did i read something wrong???

On a 1999????
or did i read something wrong???


No, you read right... Ford was after me for a few years, because I stopped making payments two years after buying the truck at a dealer (I realized the depreciation, so I figured I'd make Ford pay for it), but we figured a friendly way to solve our diffrences! Their goons were very convincing... :D

Seriously though, I'm the second owner of this vehicle (paid $14000 and change CDN for it, with tax)... I bought it about a year and a half ago, like I said. It is in a very nice shape though, and the inside/ouside look like an almost new vehicle, not much rust underneath either despite the winters up here (rust treated every year, it really shows). Mine is a 4x4 though, I didn't realize Aldive's was a 2x4... Quite surprising to see a 2x4 XLT with the SOHC, I thought they were all 4x4.

Also, an important factor that I forgot to mention (guess I'm an idiot) is that I mainly do city mileage, but most of it is on large boulevards at speeds of 45-50mph... Still, I wish my mileage would be a bit better, I calculated approx 12.5 mpg!

so I figured I'd make Ford pay for it I realized the depreciation


ok I do not get it. how could you seriously come to that conclusion..

do you also charge up your Credit Cards and then not pay and figure they can write it off. but in the long run every one pays for it ...

I seriously hope you are joking and pulling our leg???

when you realized the depreciation???Isn't that as soon as the rear wheels left the dealer lot.. probably lost a good $5000.00 on a newer Explorer..
My opinion and it is just my opinion that is why i never buy a new vehicle just 3 years old and let some one who needs the comfort of the warranty let them take the drastic hit on the price...

I seriously hope you are joking and pulling our leg???...

Yes, I am.., lol! :D Like I said, I bought it used (it was 4 years old when I bought it, more or less). I paid 14000 and change with tax/interest for it (Canadian $$$), and new XLT's like this one are 48000$ here, I checked (I have the automatic, SOHC, towing package, rear climate/radio controls, CD player, power windows/mirrors/seat, etc...)

The best thing about it is that it had a year left on a 5 year extended warranty (bought by the original owner), and I didn't even know about it till I brought it to Ford for an inspection. I used this warranty to fix my cam/timing chain tensioners problem, one ball joint and front steering links (everything described was rattling, either when idling or driving). And I haven't missed or even delayed a payment on it yet... I actually sort of make money on it, because I pay it off quicker on regular payments than the depreciation goes down, hehehe :D

You're absolutely right: never buy new!

A 1500 mile trip to Atlanta and Birmingham will start on Wednesday.

The trip is to do a dyno evaluation session with Doug ( http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=128560 ) and to test an acetone/gas fuel mixture for mileage ( http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1185465#post1185465 ).

Results soon ..........

Mileage data as follows:

using Amoco 89 gas, Doug's 89 performance tune, acetone at 2 fl oz/10 gal gas

trip up: 512 miles MPG-30.1 Avg speed 67.8 MPH

trip back: 534 miles MPG 29.96 Avg speeed 72.1 MPH

So would you say no change?

So how did I do, Aldive?

I agree, you have done great. 24 mpg especially is great for an OHV. The best I've gotten is 22 mpg on a trip--and I have done it all, mod-wise. Except the electric fan...a project I am contemplating as we type...

So would you say no change?

?????????????

No change in gas mileage after adding the acetone?

No change in gas mileage after adding the acetone?

The avg MPG before the test was 28.5 with this tune.

The acetone increased mileage slightly.

Further study is needed.

Can someone help me out with a couple of questions?

Ive looked in my manual and am trying to find out what engine, SOHC or OHV, is in a 95 XLT V6. And am I correct is stating that the difference is valve actuation, either directly by the cam or indirectly by cam to pushrod?

Secondly, Im sure everyone has noticed that every tire in creation, at least that Ive seen, states the max pressure in relation to max load. (ie Max load of xxxx lbs at 35psig max) My question, what is the max pressure with no load? If the load on each tire is well below the max, is increasing your tire pressure higher than 35 allowable?

Ive always been a max pressure guy, I run everything except my motorcycle at 35 psig. But with aldive going to 40 psig, it got me wondering about safe max pressures.

Does anyone else read this the same way? Or should it be seen as more of a load statement rather than a pressure statement. (I think this might be the case)

If the eighth alphanumeric in your VIN number is an "X" then you have an OHV engine. Example: 2FTBF25X5ELA000001.

You can also try the VIN Decoder (https://www.fleet.ford.com/maintenance/vin_tools/default.asp)

The tires on my vehicles say max pressure 44psi

Can someone help me out with a couple of questions?

Ive looked in my manual and am trying to find out what engine, SOHC or OHV, is in a 95 XLT V6. And am I correct is stating that the difference is valve actuation, either directly by the cam or indirectly by cam to pushrod?

Since you have a 95, you have the OHV. The SOHC was not yet introduced that model year.

400 miles on I 75. Average speed 71.3 MPH ( via GPS ) Fuel used 13.5 gal ( Amoco 89 filled and refilled at the same pump ) MPG=29.62. Computer tune - Doug's Dyno Tuned 89 program.

See details of this acetone/fuel test at http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1196756#post1196756

A run to Atlanta, GA then to Charleston, SC, back through Newberry, SC to Atlanta then home will be done next week. More acetone testing will be done.

Just returned from a 1000 road Mile trip.

First leg of the trip - Sarasota to Atlanta [ 507 miles all I 75 driving ]
average speed 79.3 MPH ( GPS determined )
1 fl oz acetone/10 gal Amoco 89 gas
26.1 MPG ( speed kills )
The truck had 3 adults, 2 dogs, and was packed with "stuff"

Return trip = Atlanta to Sarasota [ 512 miles all I 75 ]
average speed 76.3 MPH
no acetone in gas
24.5 MPG ( speed kills )
The truck had 2 adults, 1 dog, and was mostly empty

The acetone in the gas at 1 fl oz/ 10 gal, yielded a 1.6 MPH increase in gas mileage.

I am impressed with the results in my truck. The mileage will definately be better with the speed at or just below 70 MPH.

On a recent trip to Naples, FL, a total of 223 miles, I averaged 32.7 MPG.

Details at http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1225085#post1225085

Good job Al. I wish I could get anything near there. Did the new taillights add any MPG? :D

-Drew

Upcoming:

Latest addition in the perpetual quest for enhanced mileage is a new MAF.

When I dyno tested my truck with Doug Studdard ( http://www.bamachips.com/ ) ( http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=132515&highlight=dyno ), we tested a new MAF from C & L Performance ( http://www.cnlperformance.com/about.html ).

This MAF netted me 7 RWHP over the stock Ford MAF. I am hopping that its increased effeminacy will boost mileage.

I decided to purchase one and evaluate its effect on mileage. I am waiting for its arrival as I type.

Further reports soon ..........

I'm about to embark on the same quest but in my case it's the quest for 20 mpg... in my bone stock V8 4.7L 03 Mounty... I'm getting 18.0 mpg right now... wish I could do 30... probably with 4 cylinders turned off...

:(

after my 33's got put on my quest is back to at least 10MPG...

Al..... I am new to this site and see some interesting posts. Your use of acetone is one of them. The first post in this thread is from 2/24/2002 and now we are in 2005.... It looks like you have had success, increased mileage and no problems over the past 3 years.... If this is true ( I have no reason to dispute you) why all the negative posts? I will wait on your response, I do 100 miles a day have an 02 V8 X to/from Miama. I get 16MPG. I drive off hours so I do mostly 70MPH... Only mod... K&N filter.... Thanks in advance for your work here

There will always be naysayers. Every advancement in any field is meet with robust naysayers,

The ones here are the ones who like to talk but usually do not do any testing and experimentation.

I am very pleased with the progress in the mileage department ( as well as in the power department thanks to Doug Studdard ). I keep an open mind and will thoroughly research any concept and if valid or potentially so, will give it a try.

As I understand, 1 ounce to 10 gals to start and adjust from there. Does it matter what Octane to use?

As I understand, 1 ounce to 10 gals to start and adjust from there. Does it matter what Octane to use?

I first experimented with 2 oz acetone/ 10 gal gas nd then went to 1 fl oz acetone/ 10 gal gas. I got best results with the later.

I have not tested with 87 gas however, the results are similar with both 89 and 93 gas.

I wonder if Chevron knows about this, or Shell, Citgo Etc, if a major dealer could add Acetone to the blends and get 2% gain in MPG, they would take over the entire market.
In Calif alone where we use 46 million gallons of gas per day, the savings would be unreal

As I understand, 1 ounce to 10 gals to start and adjust from there. Does it matter what Octane to use?
My improvements have been while using 87 octane Getty. I started with 1oz. per 10 gals and am happy with my results so I'm staying at that level. Highly cost effective for me.

I wonder if Chevron knows about this, or Shell, Citgo Etc, if a major dealer could add Acetone to the blends and get 2% gain in MPG, they would take over the entire market.
In Calif alone where we use 46 million gallons of gas per day, the savings would be unreal
As you may have seen in other parts of this thread, there were apparently some situations, and vehicles, where no differences were noted. Can you imagine the uproar when folks find that they are paying more forr a fuel saving additive that is not working in their engine?

I just finished running a tank test on my 03 Mounty with a V8 and must say that I'm amased how much diference driving style makes. This time with speed under 70 mph and mixed city/highway (30/70) driving I got 18.5 mpg... wow... and that's out of a 4.7 liter V8. Usually I was getting 14 mpg normal driving at speeds reaching 80 mph once in a while. Al, you are the inspiration for me now to go with a few mods to see if I can reach that goal of mine... 20 mpg for now. Keep it coming!

With my 96' 4.0 Sport I was gettin 16.7 mi/gal, taking into consideration that I'm in high school, like to burn my tires off and I have a bad cat and a hole in my muffler. I got a little bit curious about what affect my driving style was having on my mpg so I drove normal or at least a little bit less crazy for the next tank and I gained .6 mpg. If I drive completely normal I'm sure I can gain at least 1 mpg! :p

If I drive completely normal I'm sure I can gain at least 1 mpg! :p

When my son drives mine he gets about 26 MPG whereas I get 30 MPG; its all in your definition of "normal" driving.

As stated in my previous post I gained 2.6 gal. between tanks. It's just a diference between two different styles of driving. Diference between a driving style of a 40 year old and an 80 year old. It all depends what you consider normal. In your case normal might be well, normal to you, young and full of testosteron but in my case I usually drive like a 40 yeard old guy. Sometimes I might go crazy and reach speeds of up to 100 mph on occasion with average at around 80 with hard acceleration (I like the sound of the V8 at full throtle)... driving like an 80 year old? slow starts, I mean very slow, no hard acceleration at all, lots and lots of coasting (to red light, stop sign, downhill) and keep speed on the highway under 70 mph. Especially on the highway driving in the right lane at about 65 and keep the pace steady. Other guys tend to go left lane at about 80 then slow to 50 when it gets a bit congested, then speed-up to 80 again and brake again down to 50 when someone is blocking them in the left lane doing 50 mph. Nobody is blocking my way in the right lane... So between three different styles I got this:
14.5 driving like a maniac;
15.9 driving like a 40 year old;
18.5 driving like an 80 year old.

I know the diference between these styles as I'm over 40 and have spent hundreds of thousands of miles behind a wheel. With time you will notice too that what used to be normal is really a bit overboard in some situations.

When my son drives mine he gets about 26 MPG whereas I get 30 MPG; its all in your definition of "normal" driving.
Just curious
Anyone with a SOHC V6 get 26 MPG?, anyone get 30 MPG besides Aldive

yea good question... this guy must be a really good driver

yea good question... this guy must be a really good driver
when you say this guy are you referring to AL Franklin???
If so I am sure it isn;t the fact that he is a good driver per say...
he is a smart driver. in a Explorer that has stock tires i believe since most of us have much oversized tires. so that defeats the who gasmileage thing...

also he seems to keep up very very good maintance on his Explorer. from tune up's to all synthetic fluids..

so Yes to your statement from what i get from reading many many posts here that yes he is a good and very smart driver..
although he gets 30 with my driving style i could get behind the wheel of his Ex and get 15 with my driving style...
a few extra dollars in my tank i do not care about..

Just curious
Anyone with a SOHC V6 get 26 MPG?, anyone get 30 MPG besides Aldive
I've reached 26 mpg with a 4.0 OHV V6.

well I've taken my 1994 explorer on the higway a few times and I average somewhere between 18-21mpg. It is a 4X2 with a 5 speed manual tranny and 4.0L OHV.

what usually drops it way down is the fact I endup having to creep along at about 20mpg for extended periods. Traffic usually kicks me in the butt and screws up any chance at good milage.

I recently took my dad's 1997 ford Aerostar (4.0L OHV 2wd automatic) , very similar in size and weight as an explorer, on a 110 mile round trip (55 or so each way) and averaged 20mpg. Average speed was about 63mph with air on. This did include on period where I got pissed and had the foot to the floor for a few minutes. Did quite well I do think.

take care all

George

I've reached 26 mpg with a 4.0 OHV V6.

Please tell us how you did this.

I get between 17-18.5 MPG in city driving, 22-24 on the highway, with 33's.
Stock I got 27 MPG once on all highway.

But that is Imperial gallons, so lower in US MPG.

I don't use overdrive due to the 33's, 3.73 ratio, 35 psi in the tires for onroad use, K&N, Gibson exhaust, synthetic fluids, Bosh +4 platinum plugs, 62 MPH max, easy acceleration and braking when possible, 87 octane, 89 for offroad trips to avoid pinging on long slow climbs.

Alot of folks on this site use Syns, drive like old folks, maintain there rigs to the nines.
How many of you get between 26 and 32 MPG with SOHC V6s

isn;t it true though one could only expect that mileage or close to it , if in fact their explorer is maintained near stock condition wheels lift etc..

i get maybe 10MPG at the most now but not complaining cause i expected that with the big wheels and such...

just my 2 cents..

isn;t it true though one could only expect that mileage or close to it , if in fact their explorer is maintained near stock condition wheels lift etc..

i get maybe 10MPG at the most now but not complaining cause i expected that with the big wheels and such...

just my 2 cents..
Than anyone with OEM wheels get that kind of MPG?

no lol but alot closer than most of us...
I am sure if i put 235/75/15 back on i will get alot more... but still not close to many,,

i just mean that is one of the major factors.. obviously among riving style also...

Please tell us how you did this.
i did it once when i was on 30's (actually, it was 25)- cc set at 72 for 300 miles

Please tell us how you did this.
If you will read through the thread, I already stated that my X Limited is street stock except for the rear leaf springs, meaning the stock sized 235/75R15 tires at 40psi air pressure, no chips, K&N air filter, Bosch +2 platinum plugs, new Taylor 8.2 ignition wires, Royal Purple syn lubes in tranny and trans cases, SeaFoam cleaning of TB, intake, engine and IAC, add Acetone at the rate of 1oz/10 gals., use of cruise control at 70-75 mph whenever possible.

Bottom line, I followed the advice used by ALDIVE, kept everything clean and well maintained, and used the free mods listed in this forum, and that's all.

If you will read through the thread,

I asked the question, assuming you mentioned it earlier in this thread, but I was hoping to NOT have to read through 26 pages of posts to find what you've done. :)


no chips, K&N air filter, Bosch +2 platinum plugs, new Taylor 8.2 ignition wires, Royal Purple syn lubes in tranny and trans cases,

Perhaps if you had a chip programmed for your truck, with a mileage program, you would get even better mileage! Imagine the possibilities...


SBottom line, I followed the advice used by ALDIVE, kept everything clean and well maintained, and used the free mods listed in this forum, and that's all.

You also have a more aerodynamic vehicle than I have. (2nd gen vs. 1st).
1st gen = brick going thru the air.

I get between 17-18.5 MPG in city driving, 22-24 on the highway, with 33's.
Stock I got 27 MPG once on all highway.

But that is Imperial gallons, so lower in US MPG.

I don't know how to convert from Imp. gals to regular gallons but that is great for a 1st gen, I have achieved 22 mpg highway, although that was driving 75 mph. You said you drive <62 mph so that mid-20's mpg seems very possible...obviously you maintain your truck very well to achieve that and you are to be congratulated...

U.S. gallons x 0.8327 = Imperial gallons

That means malcomzilla got 22.49 mpg all highway on his first gen once, and now he usually gets 19.16 mpg highway. That seems to be about typical of a well-maintained first gen, and good as 1st gen trucks go.

:thumbsup:

Well... next weekend I will be starting this test.....I may run it a month or two....and see what happens... :D

I have to go along with Al's driving style being a big detemining factor. Obviously, Al has a goal to get the best milage he can and he drives accordingly. That's great and I hope he achieves 40 mpg just so we can all say it can be done. :D It's a neat experiment!

In my opinion there are other very important things to consider:

Let's remember that Al has modified his truck with gas mileage in mind. Some of these upgrades were costly. Granted, maybe he would have done some of them anyway just for his own enjoyment (the lowering for instance), but let's say for arguments sake that all these mods are strictly in the interest of fuel economy. Lowering, air dams, synthetics, MAF sensors, chips, etc. All this stuff cost money. My question would be " is the gain offsetting all the expense and effort?" Can he gain enough mileage to offset the costs of all the modifications over the life span of the vehicle???

Another thing all you 4x4 owners need to remember is that Al has a 2-whell drive Explorer. A 4-wheel drive Explorer will NEVER get the mileage that a 2-wheel drive Explorer will obtain. The 4x4 package adds weight and drag.

Me?? I'm working out of my 4x4 2003 Ex with the 4.6. I'm a computer tech and I haul my equipment and tools around all day. Since I have people constantly yelling at me to "hurry up and get here!" most of my driving is "aggressive" to put it nicely! The "egg between my foot and the accelerator" method is not an option. My truck averages around 15 mpg working and on road trips it will get into the low 20's if I keep it under 75 and set the cruise.

Al, if your reading this, keep it up!! I think your experiment is great!!! I'll continue to follow your "quest" from my screen. :thumbsup: :D

Al lowered his Ex?

Yup, then he brought it back up a few months ago. Xspec if I recall.

Yup, then he brought it back up a few months ago. Xspec if I recall.

Correct; hated the ride quality when lowered.

Yup, then he brought it back up a few months ago. Xspec if I recall.

Just out of curiosity Al, did the ride height make a difference in mpg? ;)

Just out of curiosity Al, did the ride height make a difference in mpg? ;)

No, not a repeatable difference.

Let's remember that Al has modified his truck with gas mileage in mind. Some of these upgrades were costly. Granted, maybe he would have done some of them anyway just for his own enjoyment (the lowering for instance), but let's say for arguments sake that all these mods are strictly in the interest of fuel economy.

Some people like loud mufflers, loud sound systems, mucho horsepower, etc; I like the challenge of maximum fuel economy.

Its the results that are important to me, not necessarily the cost. I will spend hundreds to gain small amounts of mileage.

Many if not all of the mileage enhancing mods also boost horsepower; a plesant bonus.

Its a challenge for me, a quest...

Some people like loud mufflers, loud sound systems, mucho horsepower, etc; I like the challenge of maximum fuel economy.

Its the results that are important to me, not necessarily the cost. I will spend hundreds to gain small amounts of mileage.

Many if not all of the mileage enhancing mods also boost horsepower; a plesant bonus.

Its a challenge for me, a quest...


:D I understand exactly what you mean. I'm the same way with my personal interests. Costs become secondary to achieving the goal. Personally, I think what you are doing is great! Like I said earlier, a great experiment and I wish you the best of luck.

My point was more directed to some of the other posters who seem in awe of your results. I don't think it is reasonable to expect the kind of results you are achieving without installing costly mods directed towards the goal of better mpg. Not only that, but the "average" driver (whatever that is) isn't likely to modify their day-to-day driving habits to facilitate the goal. And lastly, a 4x4 doesn't have a prayer of achieving 30+ mpg regardless of how many mods you make.

Most importantly, for the average driver, the costs of achieving this goal can't be justified as a means of cutting operating expenses.

Keep us up to date!! I'll be following "The Quest"!!

I completed my mileage test today. This is the results: On a full tank- I drove 248 miles till empty. Took that # and divided by the size tank-14; and came up with 17.7 miles per gallon. This result sucks to me. There have to be a way to get better milage.

I completed my mileage test today. This is the results: On a full tank- I drove 248 miles till empty. Took that # and divided by the size tank-14; and came up with 17.7 miles per gallon. This result sucks to me. There have to be a way to get better milage.

That is not an acceptable way to calculate mileage. You must divide the miles traveled by the number of gallons of gas used to determine MPG.

I completed my mileage test today. This is the results: On a full tank- I drove 248 miles till empty. Took that # and divided by the size tank-14; and came up with 17.7 miles per gallon. This result sucks to me. There have to be a way to get better milage.

That's not a correct way to figure mileage. You must take the miles you've driven (248) and divide that by how many gallons you put back in the tank.

Example, you run 248 miles. Then you go to a gas station to re-fill. You put in 13.231 gallons. Therefore, you take 248 and div by 13.231 which means you went 18.75 miles per gallon for that tank.

Does running on a more 'full' tank result in lower gas milage due to the excess weight of the gas compared to an empty tank? My dad is a pilot and he says that he usually is provided with just enough fuel for a trip because it is more efficient to run with less fuel in the tanks. I dont know if it makes much of a difference in a car, and I dont know how much more a full tank of gas weighes compared to an empty one, but I want to know your opinion on this.

Does running on a more 'full' tank result in lower gas milage due to the excess weight of the gas compared to an empty tank? My dad is a pilot and he says that he usually is provided with just enough fuel for a trip because it is more efficient to run with less fuel in the tanks. I dont know if it makes much of a difference in a car, and I dont know how much more a full tank of gas weighes compared to an empty one, but I want to know your opinion on this.
Your talkin aprox 8 lbs per gallon, 10 gals= 80 lbs,overall, running less wgt, adding acetone trying to get one more MPG, in the long run you may garner a total savings of two bux per week, 30 cents per day, is the effort worth it :confused:

the way it is now i fill back up when ever i come close to half a tank unless prces are on the way down?

the things that you say to do to help gas mileage i think that is going a little bit too far in what you are trying to do for just an extra mile per gallon..

the gas doensl;t bother me as far as not wanting to drive. because if that was the case i wouldn;t own 2 explorers that are driven daily.
my 1995 i get maybe 11 per gallon..
my 2002 i get about 16 on a good week...

the way it is now i fill back up when ever i come close to half a tank unless prces are on the way down?

the things that you say to do to help gas mileage i think that is going a little bit too far in what you are trying to do for just an extra mile per gallon..

the gas doensl;t bother me as far as not wanting to drive. because if that was the case i wouldn;t own 2 explorers that are driven daily.
my 1995 i get maybe 11 per gallon..
my 2002 i get about 16 on a good week...
dave
First calculate what we all do to get an extra mile per gallon, maybe two.
Syn oil in your entire drivetrain, will get ya some, running less wgt, sure.
Flashers with econo settings, without question to a point maybe.
Intakes, exhaust, make your engine more efficiant, all will help (maybe)
You may get better MPG, maybe not.
But than calculate the cost of the hardware changes to get what your after.
than enter the costs of syn oils versus Dyno, that need to be changed at cost at certain intervals.
after doing all the above, you may find that it may take you 5 yrs to amortize the cost of gas that you have used in that timeframe JMO

we all must weigh if the outcome is worth the hassle or immediate expense..

i am working on the weight lol lost 15 pounds in last month and half...

Does running on a more 'full' tank result in lower gas milage due to the excess weight of the gas compared to an empty tank? My dad is a pilot and he says that he usually is provided with just enough fuel for a trip because it is more efficient to run with less fuel in the tanks. I dont know if it makes much of a difference in a car, and I dont know how much more a full tank of gas weighes compared to an empty one, but I want to know your opinion on this.

My opin is that for a car it doesn't make as much difference as with an airplane. Aircraft are very sensitive to weight, and if you have a 10000 lbs airplane, it might carry 400 lbs of fuel. Well, if you load it with 300 lbs of fuel, it might be able to fly 20 mph faster and 2,000 feet higher, and as a result burning 5 gallons less per hour. That's pretty good fuel savings for AVGAS or JET1. On commercial airliners you're talkin' 100's of gallons of gas, 1000's of gallons over weeks time. Talking Big $$$$ savings.

But with cars, they carry what, 100 lbs of gas? It would matter A LITTLE, but not as much as with an airplane. You might get .1 of a mpg better when you're low on the tank, vs. when you're full. You might get 2 mph faster top speed when you're low on the tank vs. when you're full. That's insignificant if you ask me. Ask the racing guys about 0-60 times when they're carrying lots of gas. It makes a difference for them...and handling, too. That's why a lot of them use fuel cells.

Some people like loud mufflers, loud sound systems, mucho horsepower, etc; I like the challenge of maximum fuel economy.

Its the results that are important to me, not necessarily the cost. I will spend hundreds to gain small amounts of mileage.

Many if not all of the mileage enhancing mods also boost horsepower; a plesant bonus.

Its a challenge for me, a quest...

Of all the mods you did, which ones would you say gave you the most notable improvements? (soory, too lazy to read through over 20 pgs of this thread...

Glad to see somone keeping track of mileage and how it changes with various mods and improvements....

Does running on a more 'full' tank result in lower gas milage due to the excess weight of the gas compared to an empty tank?

A car and a plane are very different when it comes to gas mileage.

First, at constant highway speed [edit] the weight of extra gasoline [edit] has no effect on gas mileage, other than the minor increase in drag caused by the added rolling friction in the tires. Where a car's weight really hurts gas mileage is during acceleration from a stop. So in city traffic the added weight may make a very small difference. So with a car the the effects of the added weight are different whether you are traveling at a constant speed or starting and stopping a lot.

Planes don't start and stop in the air, so if you apply the rules from a car you might think the weight doesn't make a big difference. However, when you add weight to a plane, you must generate added lift to keep the plane in the air. To increase lift a combination of two things can happen. The plane can pitch its nose up and/or increase its air speed. Both of which burn more fuel. So basically the plane is SOL when it comes to saving gas with added weight.

New to the board and just wanted to say thanks to everyone, especially Al for the tips provided. Just had a buddy buy a '98 EX 4x4 and was complaining of the 14-16 MPG he's getting. Armed with some of the info in this thread I think there is definately room for improvement.

Just a couple of questions;

Is there any other way to tell the difference between the OHV and the SOHC besides the "X" in the 8th space of the VIN?

Where's everyone getting thier acetone?

Keep up the good work everyone! :thumbsup:

Is there any other way to tell the difference between the OHV and the SOHC besides the "X" in the 8th space of the VIN?


Yes. They look different under the hood. From the outside? Hmm..
...
...
<rhett thinks for a long time (a rarity)>
...
..
hmm I would say from the outside you can't tell an OHV from a SOHC. I don't think there's any "SOHC" badging...

Yes. They look different under the hood. From the outside? Hmm..
...
...
<rhett thinks for a long time (a rarity)>
...
..
hmm I would say from the outside you can't tell an OHV from a SOHC. I don't think there's any "SOHC" badging...
AU Contrere
Some of the 03 SOHC EXs are badged in a differant than the norm manner :D

Yes. They look different under the hood...
Thanks for the reply. I pulled up some pics of the SOHC and can definately say my buddy is SOL because his is an OHV. :fire: But, according to some posts here low 20's doesn't sound entire impossible, so maybe there's hope. :cool:

Thanks for the reply. I pulled up some pics of the SOHC and can definately say my buddy is SOL because his is an OHV. :fire: But, according to some posts here low 20's doesn't sound entire impossible, so maybe there's hope. :cool:
getting 14 mpg is not unusuall... although I just got 18.5 mpg out of my 03 Mounty which has a V8 under the hood... so as you can see, it's possible.

Our '92 X is now averaging 18-20mpg on the highway... (v6, 4.10 gears, 32" tires, 700r4 tranny, 315k miles on the motor)

the biggest improvment came from slowing down. I now drive 72mph using the cruise control instead of 77mph. At 77mph I was getting 15-16 mpg.

This is without a/c but with 2 windows rolled down (a/c isn't working right now)..

~Mark

Thanks for the reply. I pulled up some pics of the SOHC and can definately say my buddy is SOL because his is an OHV. :fire: But, according to some posts here low 20's doesn't sound entire impossible, so maybe there's hope. :cool:

22-23 mpg is very reachable highway mpg with an OHV, with the right mods.
It can't compare to the SOHC though in terms of mileage.

22-23 mpg is very reachable highway mpg with an OHV, with the right mods.
It can't compare to the SOHC though in terms of mileage.
I won't compare it to the SOHC's mileage then, but if we can get it to pull low 20's at close to freeway speeds (75mph) then I'm sure he'll be happy. So, I'll work on getting him to slow down and we'll let the mods begin!

you will get much better mileage at 65mph compared to 75mph. something like 10-20%, it's probably covered earlier in this thread, if you click search this thread near those stars at the top.

you will get much better mileage at 65mph compared to 75mph

A definite fact.

A definite fact.
And even better at 45 VS 110, trust me on that :D

you will also get better mileage if you dont let al's son drive :D

think i could sell this sticker to all the bunny-huggers that drive hybrids?

'Drive it like your grandma stole it!'

And even better at 45 VS 110, trust me on that :D

...fewer tickets too...

^^ i think you mean less jail time...

These tips might help, clicky here:
http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/transportation/personal/driving/autosmart-methods.cfm?attr=8

The first 1000 mile plus trip with the new C & L MAF ( http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=136883&highlight=MAF ) will be conducted over the 4th of July.

Very curious to see how this MAF affects gas mileage. I will run one leg (500 plus miles ) with Doug's dyno tuned 93 tune and the return leg ( 500 miles ) with Doug's 89 tune.

I will not be using acetone on this trip in order to evaluate the MAF only.

Data soon .......

Have you entertained the idea of using syn ATF in the power steering? Less parasitic drag from the pump = more power/mileage. Not sure what Ford's spec is on thier PS fluid and/or what would be a compatible syn alternative... Just putting ideas on the table.

I bet aldive's already got Amsoil power steering fluid in there.

Have you entertained the idea of using syn ATF in the power steering? Less parasitic drag from the pump = more power/mileage. Not sure what Ford's spec is on thier PS fluid and/or what would be a compatible syn alternative... Just putting ideas on the table.

I use PS fluid in the PS pump. It has been fully synthetic PS fluid for years.

Thanks for the suggestion though.

The first 1000 mile plus trip with the new C & L MAF ( http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=136883&highlight=MAF ) will be conducted over the 4th of July.

Very curious to see how this MAF affects gas mileage. I will run one leg (500 plus miles ) with Doug's dyno tuned 93 tune and the return leg ( 500 miles ) with Doug's 89 tune.

I will not be using acetone on this trip in order to evaluate the MAF only.

Data soon .......
Al a few weeks back you said you were going to dyno the New maf housing, looking I believe for 8-14 H.P, did that ever happen? if so can you report the results?

Latest mileage data is at http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1248267#post1248267

Results look good as always Al. Are you going to start running Acetone again to see what your combined results will be?

Results look good as always Al. Are you going to start running Acetone again to see what your combined results will be?

Yes.

Curious to see how that will turn out. Anything planned for the next mod in your quest?

Curious to see how that will turn out. Anything planned for the next mod in your quest?

Lots of plans, nothing definite currently.

Hey Al,

I just got back from an Advanced Training class for SCT exclusive dealers and boy did I learn a great deal, even about milage. I'm headed out the door this morning to hopefully tune that STS turbocharged Explorer if everything goes right but I'd like to send you some new milage files when I return. We had a huge discussion about this while I was there and I learned some new adjustments that should really help out.

Send me an email that I can send you some files at.

Thanks, Doug.

Hey Al,

I just got back from an Advanced Training class for SCT exclusive dealers and boy did I learn a great deal, even about milage. I'm headed out the door this morning to hopefully tune that STS turbocharged Explorer if everything goes right but I'd like to send you some new milage files when I return. We had a huge discussion about this while I was there and I learned some new adjustments that should really help out.

Send me an email that I can send you some files at.

Thanks, Doug.

You have mail.

This sounds great ...........

Hey Al,

I just got back from an Advanced Training class for SCT exclusive dealers and boy did I learn a great deal, even about milage. I'm headed out the door this morning to hopefully tune that STS turbocharged Explorer if everything goes right but I'd like to send you some new milage files when I return. We had a huge discussion about this while I was there and I learned some new adjustments that should really help out.

Send me an email that I can send you some files at.

Thanks, Doug.
Anything that I might be able to use on a second gen OHV-V6?

To further the quest for more and more mileage, I am now testing a new computer tune ( actually two tunes ) that Doug Studdard ( http://www.bamachips.com/ ) wrote for me to test.

The tunes were written to maximize gas mileage and are based on new data Doug brought back from SCT.

One is for 89 gas and the other 93. Currently testing the 93 tune.

Time shall tell ..........

Can't wait to hear how the results turn out, Al.

Is my Lund wing costing me mileage?

In a discussion with Jeff Draper, he pointed out that one of the biggest problems with the Explorer shape is the drag caused by the area of low pressure created at the rear of the truck. Due to the shape and it's bulk. That spoiler will deflect a good bit of air upwards, causing the low pressure area behind the explorer to be greater.

Further, Jeff, an engineer with wind tunnel experience, pointed out that one would probably get an improvement in mileage if you had a spoiler on the rear that deflected the flow downwards to fill in the area behind the vehicle with higher pressure air from over top of the vehicle.

I shall remove the wing/spoiler and do a long test drive to see what effect it has on my mileage. Then I shall investigate a spoiler that deflects airflow downwards.

Jeff, thanks for the idea.

Well I'm new to this website and I was reading over this thread. Alot of usefull info. I noticed alot of people where saying how bad there gas mpg was on there 4x4 exp. I just wanted to share a little bit of info from my own minor mods to my 2001 4.0L 4x4.
I drive 207 miles once a week with my own vehical for work related pick ups. Anyway using the asumtion that my fuel tank is 20 gal(20.whatever acourding to ford)when I first bought it a few months ago I was getting about 17.3mpg(btw this trip is 99% highway)Oh and also my G-tech says my exp made 192hp at peak.

About 2 weeks ago I finaly got around to doing a general maint mod I have done to every one of my vehicals since I was 17. This includes bosch +4 plat spark plugs,nascar silicone wires, K&N stock air filter replacement. did a complete trans flush and replaced it with synth trans fluid with quick silver auto trans fluid aid.K&N oil filter, Oil replaced with quaker high performance synth 10w40 and engine restore fluid. Coolent flushed and replaced with prestone 60/40 with heat transfer aid fluid.

After doing these minor things on my next trip I got 23.8mpg and this week I got 24.3mpg also my G-tech now says I have 206 hp at peak. I knew these things helped with gas milage and hp but I never knew it was this much. Not bad increases for spending less then 100 dollars and 3hours of time

I will be experimenting with a new TB in the next week or so.

I first bought it a few months ago I was getting about 17.3mpg(btw this trip is 99% highway)Oh and also my G-tech says my exp made 192hp at peak.

About 2 weeks ago I finaly got around to doing a general maint mod I have done to every one of my vehicals since I was 17. This includes bosch +4 plat spark plugs,nascar silicone wires, K&N stock air filter replacement. did a complete trans flush and replaced it with synth trans fluid with quick silver auto trans fluid aid.K&N oil filter, Oil replaced with quaker high performance synth 10w40 and engine restore fluid. Coolent flushed and replaced with prestone 60/40 with heat transfer aid fluid.

After doing these minor things on my next trip I got 23.8mpg and this week I got 24.3mpg also my G-tech now says I have 206 hp at peak. I knew these things helped with gas milage and hp but I never knew it was this much. Not bad increases for spending less then 100 dollars and 3hours of time

Welcome to the site ....

What mods have you done to your truck?

That is all at this point. Although my next mission is to make a custom directed air intake for a K&N conical air filter. Also im checking out a hypetech power programer right now lol :p

That is all at this point. Although my next mission is to make a custom directed air intake for a K&N conical air filter. Also im checking out a hypetech power programer right now lol :p

Is the HP that your G Tech reports crank HP or RWHP?

I assume you have the SOHC motor???

Al, I agree with Jeff's reasoning. (I'm not an AE, but have some experience with military and civilian aircraft.) That HUGE rear hatch area has concerned me regarding aerodynamics ever since I bought mine.

The stock Ford rear air deflector is probably as good as it gets. The shape of it does deflect the airflow downwards, giving a dual purpose, to clean the window, and improve the aerodynamics. With today's CAFE standards, could Ford have possibily done wind-tunnel studies on the Explorer, when designing the rear deflector?............... Nah :)

it is a sohc and those numbers are estimated crank hp it can also report whp but thats to depressing at this point for my exp. I think it reported it at 160 or something when I first got the exp LOL.

Spoiled?

After further pondering Jeff Draper’s comments on the spoiler that I have ( Lund Windjammer ), I am wondering if the spoiler is not “so bad” for mileage after all.

If the spoiler were a solid wing ( such as found on NASCAR Nextel Cup cars, Jeff’s comments would definitely apply. However, since the spoiler has slots ( see pictures ) that according to the manufacturer, are used to downward deflect air to keep the rear glass clean. This downward air flow would theoretically reduce the low pressure area behind the truck and possibly enhance gas mileage,

A road test with and without the spoiler will provide us some information.

;) the time...

So you are the guy that comes to a crawl on a grade forcing everyone to pass cause you don't wanna add gas and mess up your mileage...? ;) My grandpa used to clip coupons... Talked about it aaaaaall the time...

Whats a grade? Remember I live in Florida. :)

Spoiled?

After further pondering Jeff Draper’s comments on the spoiler that I have ( Lund Windjammer ), I am wondering if the spoiler is not “so bad” for mileage after all.

If the spoiler were a solid wing ( such as found on NASCAR Nextel Cup cars, Jeff’s comments would definitely apply. However, since the spoiler has slots ( see pictures ) that according to the manufacturer, are used to downward deflect air to keep the rear glass clean. This downward air flow would theoretically reduce the low pressure area behind the truck and possibly enhance gas mileage,

A road test with and without the spoiler will provide us some information.

I hadn't seen any closeups of the windjammer, so I didn't know it had the slots. My assumption was that it was a solid piece, and that would definitely create more drag. It would still be interesting to see what effect it is having on your mileage.

The type of spoiler that I'm thinking would do the best for mileage is like one off an old Plymouth Gran Fury/Dodge Coronet wagon. Back in the early 70's, they had a curved spoiler on the car that was designed specifically to pull air down the rear of the car, not to increase downforce. I'm having a heckuva time finding a good pix of one though....here's what I could find.

http://i6.ebayimg.com/03/i/04/79/81/54_12_sb.JPG

http://i7.ebayimg.com/03/i/04/79/cc/ca_12_sb.JPG

Hmm...either the plate is being intentionally covered, or they are some crazy looking spoiler effects :afro:

By the way...my stock explorer (just back from new t-case and rebuilt rear driveshaft) averaged a record 25.6 mpg last night on a 100+ mile trip from philly. The air was about 78 degrees last night with periodic rain on the turnpike...

drove with cruise control between 65-70 mph w/o rain and 50-55 mph w/ rain. (say avg speed=65). No as good as Al's model of efficiency, but not bad for completely stock (roof racks and all).

My personal best was at 21.1mpg ona 70 mi. roundtrip from my normal house to my lake and back, thats going by that little display in the console of my X. But i've got the 5.0, city is in the 13 range.

I recently replaced the throttle body on my truck. ( http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=139454 ).

My hopes are that the larger TB will let the motor be more efficient and a more efficient motor often means better mileage,

We shall soon see .....

I wonder if a rather dirty throttle body inside has been costing me mileage? ( http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=139457 )

Thoughts .......

I would have to say the windjammer spoiler probably IS costing mileage, since even though it does have slots, the fast moving air going over the roof gets "spoiled" not just by going smoothly over it or through the slots, but likely gets caught in the hollow inside and is then forced out when more air displaces it. It's just a guess and I have nothing to prove my aerodynamic theory, but I've installed a few of these things and they just don't appear to be anything more than a cosmetic item. Sure, they probably disturb the air enough to keep the back glass from picking up as much dust as a vehicle without it, but it definitely appears to have a parachute effect going on. It would be interesting to see how the air would flow in a wind tunnel over/through such a thing. Taking it off to find out would be a hassle though, and leaving it off would show the holes.

Spoiled, again?

I really like the look of my Lund Windjammer, but I like my gas mileage even better.

After coming to the conclusion that the spoiler might not be bad for mileage and might even augment it, I decided to do a road test to see the significance of the spoiler.

I have the current mileage data ( highway ) with the spoiler in place, therefore, I had to remove the spoiler and do another road test. My spoiler is attacked only with the 3M tape and it was a bitch to get it off; that tape is tough stuff.

The test consisted of a 140 mile run on I75 ( 70 miles S to Ft Myers, short visit with a friend, and back ). The fuel used was Amoco 93; computer tune used – Doug’s dyno tuned 93 tune. The speed was GPS determined.

Previous best mileage with this tune was 31.7 MPG ( see http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1248267#post1248267 post #44 ).

This trial was 147 miles; average speed 69.6 MPH; mileage was 30.4 MPG. Ambient temperature 92 F.

Based on this one test, the mileage was better with the spoiler.

Further, I like the look and I am keeping it.

Sure, they probably disturb the air enough to keep the back glass from picking up as much dust as a vehicle without it

Taking it off to find out would be a hassle though, and leaving it off would show the holes.

Actually it doesn't do much if anything to help keep the hatch glass clean.

Taking it off is just a matter of removing the 3M tape. There are no holes; held on only by the 3M tape.

Ah, was worth a try. I'm kinda surprised at the results considering it's construction. Would have been interesting to see what a back to back test (trip down without, trip back with) would have produced.

. Would have been interesting to see what a back to back test (trip down without, trip back with) would have produced.

Yes, it would have been. Its just too damn hot to install the spoiler on the side of the road/parking lot.

Maybe another time ( like winter ).

Aldive, by the looks of that slotted spoiler, it looks more like a 'turbulator' than a spoiler. It apparently causes turbulence behind the hatch, thereby breaking up the low pressure area there. The designers must have figured that out when they added the slots.

I agree that it looks good, and I'd keep it too...... :thumbsup:

I don't think one run is really enough to say one way or the other on the spoiler's effect on mileage, or even any mileage in general. The effect of disturbing the air that I think might increase drag might actually be breaking up the low pressure area as mentioned though. After thinking more about it, it probably doesn't contribute much drag if it's just held on with 3M tape, since as strong as the tape is, driving at 80+m.ph. would probably rip it off if the air flowing over the roof was really getting trapped in the hollow part. I do agree it looks pretty nice, at least from the back, but still feel theres probably a better design option that would do more for your mileage. Lund only advertises the windjammer as a air deflector that keeps the back glass clean though, so it would be something if it improves aerodynamics but doesn't do that. It might be interesting to test the factory type spoilers vs. the windjammer vs. no spoiler over time and see the results.

I wonder if a rather dirty throttle body inside has been costing me mileage? ( http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=139457 )

Thoughts .......


I am very surprised that you were running a stock size throttle body.
I thought that you had changed that long ago...

I do not have data to support the claim that a larger TB, or a dirty one, will affect gas mileage. I can say that my mileage data from 4 years ago (with a stock TB) is inferior to the mileage I get today (with a larger TB). But then again, I have done many other modifications in addition to the TB.

Again, I am surprised that you of all people were running a stock TB. (!!!!) :eek:

Again, I am surprised that you of all people were running a stock TB. (!!!!) :eek:

Why? There are no aftermarket TBs for the SOHC? I had to use a Mustang TB

I didn't know that the spoiler had a pocket inside of it. That is extra drag, I thought that they smoothly deflected air down. The Ford spoilers just divert air down, with the simple plate style that someone already referred to.

I wonder if it could be helped by filling the pockets with a curved section, to divert air down onto the window. Regards,

Spoiled, again?

My spoiler is attacked only with the 3M tape and it was a bitch to get it off; that tape is tough stuff.


Further, I like the look and I am keeping it.

I agree Al! I have Lund Window air deflectors on my X. That tape is almost bullet proof. Once it's on it wants to stay on!! :D

what about the visors for the windsheild I had one on a old blazer i had years and years ago..