Re: Surprising increase in truck MPG

William Noble wrote:
> 
> snip---------
> 
> >
> > I don't have first hand experience with your model truck (I'm sure
> > others here do), but I would expect it to get perhaps 16-18 MPG if it
> > has the default low axle ratio. If it has a GVW under 10k it should
have
> > some EPA MPG estimate numbers (also on the window sticker) that should
> > be reasonably close to what to expect.
> >
> > I'd take a few weeks of filling the tank and logging the mileage to
get
> > an accurate MPG number and see where you really stand.
> 
> 1. I think, based on a 93 suburban (e.g. same mfg) with the smaller
engine
> that 16 mpg is optimistic - my suburban gets 16 on the freeway with
people
> in it, traveling long distances but less in town.

A Suburban weighs more than a pickup.

> 2. thermostat makes a big difference - if the car doesn't come up to
temp
> the computer keeps it running rich - (and it fails smog test) - you can
see
> this in the exhaust gas analysis re****t - going from a 160 to a 180 deg
> thermostat made quite an improvement.

Reprogramming the ECM so it goes closed loop with the 160 t-stat will
also fix that problem, without running the engine too hot and cooking
every wire and piece of plastic in the engine compartment.