Hey guys. With rising gas prices I just want to get the most out of every drop. That being said I have done all of the tune up tricks on this site (magnecors, bosch fusion sparks, seafoam etc.) and I am still averaging about 16.5 on the highway. Now I know that I can get more and one of the biggest improvements is going slow, but how slow should I really be going. Realistically it all boils down to engine RPM, so on the highway, what is the best RPM range/power range for D2's. Any thoughts? Thanks alot

 

I have been told that 65mph is what the Disco's where setup to run at.

 

I've read that peak torque is at 2600 rpm's. What's that, about 65 mph? That seems like a good place to start. Of course wind resistance is a big factor when you're shaped like a brick. Iswear I got better mileage going about 80than 70, but I'll have to retest that sometime.

 

The trick is to go slower, for several reasons.
1. Less wind resistance.
2. Lower engine RPM.
3. You can drive at a more steady speed.
Speeding up and slowing back down and then speeding up again is a huge waste of gas. Depending on your traffic conditions, set your cruise slower than the cars around you, if you can keep a steady speed for several miles, or more, it will really help the MPG.
Here in MI the speed limit is 70, everybody drives 80+, we set the cruise at 65 and average 18+ and have gotten as much as 22.
And remember, just becasue you can drive 80 doesnt mean you need to.

 

It does when you have a toddler and a 3.5 hour trip.

 

LOL, I feel your pain.
And now for the fatherly advise, it is safer to drive slower, it will save you money, and do the math, how much time are you actually saving?
A 200 mile trip at an average speed of 74 MPH, lets face it, you cant drive 80 the whole way, you know, other cars on the road and all, will take you 2.70 hours.
The same trip at 65 will take you 3.07 hours, thats a difference of .37, or roughly 37 minutes.
How much more gas are you going to use? And at $4.00 per gallon, if it takes you an extra 5 gallons then it costs you and extra $20. That is $40 round trip. Is it worth $40 to save a hour?
Not to mention fewer emissions from the tail pipe. And did I mention safer for your child?
Sorry, not trying to preach, I used to drive 80 everywhere I went, then I changed my driving habits and I am better for it. Portable DVD players and headphones are the way to go.