Project Pickup – Running the MPG Numbers

The TFLcar Project Pick-up is ready to be modified

We have been busy running our TFLcar Project Pickup under different conditions and different ECU modes on the quest for MPG numbers. We are using the Diablo Sport Trinity programmer from Autoanything.com to switch between ECU modes.  Heavy duty trucks (2500 series and above) have traditionally been exempt from EPA or manufacturer MPG certification.  One of the main reasons for this exemption is the great variance in fuel usage between empty versus loaded situations, as you will see in the data below.  “Empty” = driver only and no cargo.  “Loaded” = driver + carrying approx. 2,000 lbs camper in bed and towing approx. 5,500 lbs trailer.

Tow/Efficiency Mode

Empty Highway : 21.3 MPG, running 93% of the trip on the highway and averaging 60 mph.

Empty Mixed : 17.4 MPG, running 50/50 of the trip city/highway.

Loaded Mixed : 13.3 MPG, running 40/60 of the trip city/highway.

 

Stock Mode

Empty Highway : 19.1 MPG, running 93% of the trip on the highway and averaging 60 mph.

Empty Mixed : 16.2 MPG, running 50/50 of the trip city/highway

Loaded Mixed : 12.1 MPG, running 40/60 of the trip city/highway

 

Summary

We saw the biggest improvement on the Empty Highway driving loop of 2.2 MPG or 10.5%.  Our Loaded Mixed driving loop yielded a 1.2 MPG or 9% improvement.  Notice how drastically the efficiency drops off once you start piling on the weight!  And please remember that all driving loops are located in the Rocky Mountain Front Range area near Denver Colorado.

Don’t forget about the Project Pickup Mod Poll .  Take the opportunity to tell us what type of modifications you would most like to see us do.