Diesel Fuel Economy

In June of 2008 diesel fuel in Hemet hit $5.19. At present (July, 2012) it is about $3.75 a gallon, and it seems to be stable for the moment. We can’t seem to do anything about the price of the fuel. But maybe we can burn less of it.

Bully Dog fuel economy: With my Bully Dog programmer set on level 2, I have improved my highway fuel economy by 3mpg. I have tested it several times, and the programmer is good for an improvement from 18.5 to 22mpg. I have a 2001 Duramax LB7 motor. Around town (3 miles to work, 3 miles back home) I get a depressing 13mpg. The programmer does not seem to improve this mileage. I avoid using the truck for that kind of driving as a result.

Unfortunately, due to smog regulations in California and new smog inspections of diesel trucks, Phil’s can no longer sell the Bully Dog programmer. The diesel smog inspection will include an inspection for VISIBLE non-approved equipment, a check for computer codes, and a visible smoke test.

The next best fuel economy trick I have is…..SLOW DOWN! For every 5mph above 55mph you can figure on losing 1mpg. That’s a rough estimate, but the testimony on The Diesel Page indicates that this is a true statement.