Rising gas prices make everyone a high mileage expert. You’ve probably read some of those expert “How to save gas” articles and they sound like they’re written by your Mom. C’mon, who doesn’t know driving slower or driving less will save gas? Riding a bicycle will do the same thing but if you plan on using your truck for work and play, how do you get better mileage without parking it?
OK, some of the things the articles point out are good ideas. Check your tire pressure. I have seen so many guys riding around with underinflated tires it makes me cringe to think about it. Guys, it uses a lot more gas, wears the tires out faster, and tires cost a lot more than gasoline, and on top of it all, underinflated tires at highway speed overheat. When you hear about those trucks or SUVs crashing after mysterious blowouts, I first wonder when they checked their tire pressure last. Be smart, be responsible, keep the tires inflated.
Replace your dirty air filter, better yet, replace it with a high performance air filter. The new high technology filters are less restrictive than the stock filters. Less restriction means more air and oxygen get into the engine and fuel burns more efficiently. More power, better mileage. When they get dirty, you can clean them and reuse them, they last pretty much as long as you’ll own your truck. They’re a smart move.
Even better than a filter replacement is to replace the air intake system. They come with a high performance filter as well and flow a lot more air than stock. These systems can give a meaningful power boost, too.
Pickup trucks come stock with a guaranteed gas hog built in, an open truck bed. When air flows over the cab and into the bed it hits the tailgate and creates huge air turbulence, upsetting any smooth flow created by the front of the truck. Think about it, did you ever watch truck races? Ever see an open bed? Bed covers come in a wide variety of styles and types but no matter what you do, cover the bed. It makes the truck more practical, too. Covering the bed allows you to carry things out of the weather and away from the gaze of anyone who might like to walk off with your tools or possessions. Truck bed covers get rid of the turbulence, smoothing air flow, reducing drag, increasing mileage. They’re a big winner all around.
We’ll talk about this a lot more with more ideas and more detail, so stay tuned.