How to improve my fuel mileage

[jshg46]

I would like to have some suggestions on how to improve my fuel mileage in my 94 xlt with 4.0 L it really bites ,its getting around 11 to 12 mpg any advice on anything that will help this problem is very welcomed

 

[EBInterceptor]

Intake, exhaust, chip, slow accelerations, and not speeding.

 

[double_take]

Well I was able to get an extra 2MPG outta my V8 by adding a K&N air filter.

 

[TheJMan]

I have replaced numerous things on my 93 for better mileage, some really helped. I haven't done any "mods" to my X, just OEM style replacements. I used to get around 11.5 to 12 but I now bet 13.5 to 14. I have replaced/changed the following:

-Spark plugs (use Motorcraft, Bosch +4s aren't that great for $5.99 a pop)
-Plug Wires
-Thermostat
-K&N Air Filter (1/2 mpg gain there)
-PCV Valve
-Rear Differential Fluid (now use M1 75W-90)
-Front Differential Fluid (M1 75-90)
-Gas Cap
-Oil and filter (M1 5W-30 and Wix Filter)
-Tires all at 40 PSI

If your engine doesn't have too many miles on it, I highly recommend using a synthetic oil. My 4.0 quieted down significantly after switching to Mobil 1. Also, my X really seems to run well on Chevron 89 octane gasoline. I have tested it many times, and I get almost 1/2 mpg better with Chevron 89 octane than I do with 87 or 91.

 

[410Fortune]

GEesh you guys.

FIRST THING is check the tire pressure at all four corners.
Low tire pressure = crappy mileage

Then check the alignment if the tires are wearing un-evenly. Bad alignment = crappy mileage.


The other thing that can cause a huge drop in gas mileage is if you fan cluitch is toasted, it will freeze up causing the fan to drag on the engine all the time...

THEN start on the tune up stuff.....

 

[Jimbo]

91 Explorer..
band new K&N (proally doesnt add anything)...

and like 11 mpg....
and the check engine comes on all the time
eh any help?

also....

does a bug guard mess up ur mpg cause i heard it did...

thanks,

Jim

 

[jgilbs]

take a look at this thread:
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=44372&highlight=mileage+aldive

 

[Mbrooks420]

the check engine comes on all the time

You need to have the code scanned. A lot of the bigger auto chains will do this for free. You probably have a bad sensor, or something triggering the CEL, and it is also causing your MPG to drop. A bug guard slightly decreases mpg due to being less areodynamic.

 

[410Fortune]

About the bug guard??? Seriously???

How do we prove that one? air tunnel?

I have heard rumors on the Prerunner boards that flared fiberglass fenders can effect MPG, I mean the Explorer is already a brick wall in the aerodynamics dept so how much could a bug shield effect real world mileage?

I mean I believe you I am just curious as to how you know that?

 

[Mbrooks420]

I mean I believe you I am just curious as to how you know that?

Common sence. Anytime you add something that will add to drag it will decrease mileage. Not only that, you are causing an updraft from the leading edge of the hood that extends up and over the windshield(which is what makes a bug guard work)The factory roofrack makes a noticable difference.

 

[410Fortune]

Oh okay I knew that much..I just thought you did some wind tunnel tests or something...

I mean common sense tells us that anything you add to the outside of the vehicle will effect the wind drag, but so does rolling down the window.
I guess you could argue that the bug shield may have cost you X amount of $$$ in gas last year but it also saves X an=mount of $$$ in glass repair... hahahaha I love the internet......

 

[Jimbo]

so the stock roof rack takes away 2?

Damn... lol... should I take it off?

 

[X~FACTOR]

How about fuel leak... got any? Smell any after shutting down the engine? I know I got one. I just need to trace it down and fix it.

 

[Jimbo]

Would Advanced Auto do it for free?

Napa?

Auto Zone?

(code scan)

 

[EBInterceptor]

Autozone has free scanning. I've never used it but many others here have.

 

[EliteConcept]

just clean your engine.....the dirt and grime that builds up can "insulate" your engine so it runs warmer than it should...NOT by much but some cleaning should help out a little.

 

[jshg46]

reply

This is interesting but how much fuel mileage are you gaining from doing these mods