97 Ranger fuel mileage

[Toolmaan]

Hello everyone. Recently purchased a 97 ranger. 4cyl, 5spd extended cab 2wd, 105,000 miles. The best mileage I get so far is 21MPG. I drive this 70 miles a day to work so it is mainly highway mileage. I was really hoping for 25 mpg when I bought it but not happening yet.
I havent' even pulled the plugs yet but anyone got suggestions on how to boost the mileage on these little trucks? What does everyone else get on these? Thanks

 

['97 V8]

well keep the tailgate up first of all. Also get those plug and wires replaced if you havent done that. Air filter, and fuel filter as well.

 

[RangerX]

If it has larger than stock tires, the speedo/odo will be off, making MPG calculations off.

 

[Toolmaan]

If it has larger than stock tires, the speedo/odo will be off, making MPG calculations off.

Now that you mention that, the tires are stock size, but teh speedo is off about 11MPH. If it says 71 I am really doing about 60MPH. I figured this by going 60 MPH for exactly 1 mile for exactly 60 seconds. Something is up, I haven't even looked into it yet. Has 225-75-R14 tires on it.

 

[KKM]

The OEM tire is listed as 195/70-14, so having a taller side wall will effect the speedometer reading, especially with a higher psi. Also consider the significantly wider tread will decrease mileage a bit. Our shop 2.3L usually averaged 24.5 in mixed driving with intake and exhaust upgrades.

 

[meanswell]

my 97

I also have a 97 2.3 x5 x-cab . I get about 400 miles a tank ( 18 gal. i think) I believe you need to change the oil frequently and the air filter. I bought mine at 22 k , and i have 163 k now . do you use any oil ?

Best i can tell you so far , i drive mine all over Texas going to gas wells. i get crappy milage at different times.