A/C Reduces MPG?
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A/C Reduces MPG?
I have read other posts that say A/C can reduce MPG by 2-3 miles per gallon. Is this a common experience? I read somewhere that, at highway speeds, it's better to run the A/C than keep windows open for cooling--in terms of MPG. I've got a '89 F250 4X4 plus cab with a 1,500lb. low profile camper. On a recent drive, fairly flat road, I got about 9.5MPG with some cross wind/head winds while running A/C. Unfortunately, I only have the three speed Auto tranny. The best mpg. that I have managed on this stretch of road is about 10.5. My most recent mod is a set of those "Tornados" that swirl the air as it goes into the intake. I'm trying to figure out if these are helping me or if I should send them back. If the A/C really does cut mpg by 2 to 3 miles, then these have been worth the investment. Any responses would be welcome. Thanks!
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A/C Reduces MPG?
Ive always found that using the A/c is city type driving will reduce mileage some . As for highway driving I have noticed little difference . The engine in your truck has enough spare power to run the A/c w/o cutting into your mileage at highway speeds . As for the tornado things ...Questionable , Ive always been leary of automotive gimmicks . Your best bet is a properly tuned engine , proper tire pressures & alignment ...these will deliver more mileage than something that supposedly offers unrealistic gains in mpg .IMHO , A K&N air filter would have been a better purchase .
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A/C Reduces MPG?
Paul--Thanks. Those were my thoughts, too. I already have a K&N filter. I think I will be sending back those Tornados. I've read on this board that a Cat Back delivers some real benefits, so I think I'll be doing that as soon as I can afford it, especially since I want more power. The rig kind of dogs on hills with the camper, and it seems to me that a 5.8 liter engine should fly up hills, even with a camper. Anyway, I know I get passed a lot! But what is an "IMHO"? Do you think an MSD or Jacob's ignition is worth the $'s? What, in general, do you think is the best MPG I can expect with this set-up? Thanks.
'89 F250 S/C 4X4 351W camper
'89 F250 S/C 4X4 351W camper
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Joined: Jul 1999
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A/C Reduces MPG?
IMHO = In My Humble Opinion . With a 351 hauling a camper , you really cant expect a lot in the MPG area . Most people seem to have pretty good luck with MSD or Jacobs . Anything you do to make the engine more efficient will help with Mpg & power . Id send back the tornado thing & apply that money to a good cat back exhaust .
