I am an older dude getting ready to retire and plan on traveling alot. Gas is getting totally out of hand. I have a 2002 econoline 150. I know virtually nothing about modifying my van for better mileage. What can I bolt on, to the body, engine, add to liquids, change gear ratios to get better mileage? thanks for any help.

Adding a performance intake and exhaust will give you a couple extra mpg.

http://www.geocities.com/dragginbody87/

Intake and exhaust will give you a few extra MPG in a best case scenario. The secret to improved MPG is EFFICIENCY. A low restriction intake and low restriction exhaust TYPICALLY improve efficiency. So do synthetic lubricants and such. A taller rear end gear will lower your RPM at speed, but your engine may actually working HARDER to maintain that speed, hence using more fuel.

To be fair to your van, start with a complete tune-up by a reputable shop. Something as simple as a fouled plug can contribute to crappy mileage more than you may expect.

Besides that, get rid of the big box and go for a little rice-burner econo car. If you're like me you'd rather have an American V8 than a front driver ricer, even if it does mean less MPG.

First things first, make sure the van is well tuned. A clean air filter and good plugs and wires can do a world of difference. Given the age of the van, I would not switch over to synthetics. Just make sure you get your regularly scheduled service on your oil.

Another thing to take a close look at is your tires. Make sure the tires are properly inflated. In many cases you can go a couple pounds over the vehicles recommended pressure to decrease rolling resistance. This can sometimes cause a slightly stiffer ride, though. You have to determine for yourself if the trade off is worth it. Also, look into tires with a lower rolling resistance when it is time for replacements.

And lastly, before looking at modifications to your intake and exhaust, I would look at replacing the wheels. Look for a set of lighter aluminum wheels in the same diameter as your stocks. You need to actually compare the wheel and tire weights to be sure that you are actually decreasing unsprung weight.

Hope that helps.


Dustin
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