Economical speed

It is usually and rpm rate, not speed you look at for the best mileage.

Engines have a 'sweet spot' where they pull the best using the least amount of gas pedal to keep them at a steady speed. On my Jeep CJ7, that is 2300 rpm or so. For me this works out at 65 mpg in 4th gear.

If I use 5th or overdrive, my rpm drops out of the sweet spot down to 1700 or so at 65 mph. This causes my engine to lug and I have to use a lot of gas pedal travel to maintain a steady speed against wind or inclines. Yes, I still have lots of pull in 5th, but... This costs me about 5 mpg.

Different brands of fuel make a difference too. Some use a lot of alcohol in them which cuts down on gas mileage.

Mike 86-00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glbutt nose to tail in '00 88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view! (More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

Dgethin