If you watch the news, then you've probably heard, "Blah, blah...fuel prices are on the rise again...blah, blah." While the talking heads may be easy to tune out, we have to admit that diesel prices are on the rise and reaching three dollars per gallon in many areas. That doesn't mean you have to sit back and watch your wallet drain. You can beat the system, and we're not talking about detaching from the grid and converting freedom-fry grease in your backyard. This article is about maximizing the efficiency of your average performance diesel truck and getting the most spark-less bang for each buck spent at the No. 2 pump.
1. Go With the Flow
A clean air filter makes it easier for your engine to breathe, which means it will run more efficiently. Aftermarket filters allow better flow than the factory paper, but this comes with the drawback of not capturing all the particles the stock paper will trap. Whatever you decide to use, make sure you keep it clean. According to the EPA, replacing a clogged unit can improve your mpg by as much as 10 percent, but the filter is just one piece in the efficient engine puzzle.
2. Breathe In
Upgrading your intake is a great way to increase efficiency. Factory units are made of plastic and often have accordion-style bends and narrow sections that can restrict airflow. Aftermarket intakes maximize the air pathway while minimizing the distance from the filter to the engine. Cold-air intake setups are best because you won't end up with hot underhood air in the mix, just clean, cool air from Mother Nature.
3. Breathe Out
An exhaust system as big as a water main looks and sounds cool, plus it helps keep your engine running at a lower temperature. Driving with a low Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) is essential to the longevity of your powerplant; plus it means you are maximizing your efficiency. Another advantage to a free-flowing exhaust is the reduction of backpressure on your turbo(s), which allows the compressor(s) to spool up faster and reach the target boost pressure with less effort.
4. No More Idling!
Not only are you annoying your neighbors with half-hour warm-ups when it's 70 degrees outside, but you are wasting fuel. Idling achieves zero miles per gallon-it's a geographic fact. Modern diesel engines are designed to start up quickly each time you turn the key, even in cold weather. Modern diesel trucks will get up to operating temperature in a matter of minutes, and one of the best ways to speed the process is to start driving with a light right foot. There just aren't many situations where extended idling is necessary. If it's 55 degrees outside, don't leave your truck running in the driveway before work. It's noisy, it wastes Rudolph's favorite fuel, and you are just asking for someone to hop in and steal your rig.
5. Contents Under Pressure
Before you roll out of the driveway, make sure your tires are properly inflated. Squishy meats not only reduce your mpg, but they also tend to get hot, which can lead to a blowout. One of the reasons hybrid cars get so many miles out of each gallon is because they ride on narrow tires made with rock-hard rubber. We're not suggesting you install pizza-cutters on your rig and pump them to 80 psi. Just make sure your current tires aren't mush. The Feds say you lose four tenths of a percent on your mpg for every psi missing from your set of tires.
6. Weekend 'Wheelers
If you only hit trails on days that start with an "S," you should consider investing in a set of street tires, or at least some all-terrains that can be used on- and off-road. Running soft, chunky tires increases your rolling resistance, and that hurts mpg. Giant tires and wheels also increase the mass of your truck, which means it will take more energy to get moving in every situation. When shopping for wheels, keep their weight in consideration. Forged aluminum rims are light yet strong enough to support large trucks.
7. Lighten Up
Speaking of weight, carrying a giant diamond-plate toolbox that never gets used is like dragging a small anchor. Toss everything you don't need out of your truck. Say adios to items that are not safety-related but are increasing your curb weight. When a job is done, take your tools out of the cab until the next time you need them. You can also put your truck on a diet with lightweight replacement parts like the wheels mentioned above or a fiberglass hood. Unnecessary weight adds up and will reduce the efficiency of your rig in all types of driving.
"Get the most spark-less bang for each buck spent at the No. 2 pump."