Improving gas mileage....

[Chris Jella']

My 93 despite all attempts to improve it was getting 17-18mpg. It's a 3.73 LS. I changed to synthetic tranny fluid 3 weeks ago, (it was the last thing that wasn't synthetic), in the 3 tanks of gas since I'm getting 19-19.5 mpg and thats with warmer temps and running the A\C quite a bit. I'm very happy with the increase

 

[PLRBEAR]

Ok, it's confirmed. I've got the D4, which is a 3.73 Limited Slip.

 

[AgExplorer]

Looking at my records we have be averaging 17.4 MPG. I'm getting about 14 when driving only in town and 20+ on the highway.

 

['96explorereddiebauer]

Thanks PLRBEAR. My '96 has the D2 axle, with the 4.10 LSD, so I guess that's why it sucks a little more gas than yours. Sometimes I have a lead foot too. Hehe. I guess 15.9 mpg is pretty good for my truck but I still want better mileage. When 60k comes around, I'll get new plugs and wires, change every fluid to synthetic, the works...

 

[aldive]

What is the best mileage that you know of in an Explorer?

What were the mods necessary to acheive that goal?

Thanks....

 

[95ExplorerLtd]

So far from what I've read, Alec Rosenbaum gets about 20-22 with his supercharged 4.0, which is really good for an Explorer. But its also a Sport and 2wd, that that all contributues.

 

[PLRBEAR]

Yeah. The 2wd/2dr models are lighter than the 4wd/4dr models aren't they? Take the 2002 model for instance. Here are the two extremes with the same engine:


4x2,5spd,V6: 4094lbs
4x4,5spd,V6: 4334lbs

Auto trans adds about 10lbs to the curb weight.

 

[aldive]

Latest update on mileage quest

On a trip yesterday of 523 miles, the mileage in my Explorer averaged 21.7 mpg.

The trip was mostly Interstate highway at a speed of 77.4 ( monitored by GPS ),

The truck was loaded with 4 people, 8 Scuba tanks, 4 weight belts, and 4 sets of Scuba equipment.

 

[MikeTEC]

Chris Jella'...I have a 93 EB with 105K and thinking about changing to Mobil 1 synthetic transmission fluid. Have you experienced any leaks/problems yet? Thanks MikeTEC

 

[aldive]

No, none, zip. Only difference is smoother shirf points and much better fuel mileage.

Hope it works for you too.

 

[Stephen]

Your truck isnt as old as his Al, his very well may leak after switching to synthetic.

 

[irtySanchez]

Stephen----

Why do you suggest that his older Explorer may leak tranny fluid after switching to a synthetic?

I am considering this and I have 129,000 on my 94 Ex with the original trans.

 

[Stephen]

A lot of times when you switch to a synthetic fluid on an older car it will leak. Synthetic fluids dont congeal like natural ones, so they dont plug up small holes and such.

 

[aldive]

This is very true. However, I have switched on high mileage vehicals ( and boats ) with narry a problem.

 

[Ray Lobato]

When I switched from dino to synthetic, I had to replace the oil pan gasket because mine leaked big time. This is just something you have to check. Some leak, some don't.

BTW Al,
I had sent you and email asking you not to quote someone when they were posted right under your post. I see that you are still doing it. Please don't do that.
Thank you for your support.