Diesel vs Gas - Page 2

Padgett · 08-06-2014, 07:07 AM

OK this has gotten me curious now: on paper, the Ecoboost should be doing better MPG than my Jeep. For one the direct injection allows higher compression which explains the difference between 290 and 365 hp. However what is important here is the cruise load and engine speed.

I do notice that a range of rear gears from 3.15:1 to 4.1:1 (mine has a 3.09:1) are available and apparently the EB does not wind as high. At 65 mph on the flats I am turning 1800 rpm and the load is low enough to keep me out of Power Enrichment.

Mine is also one of the lightest GCs at 4475 lbs curb weight.

If anyone cares we can start a comparison thread but will need to be able to monitor a lot of readings (load, fuel trim, etc). If not we can just drop it.

Redtail Cruiser · 08-06-2014, 07:34 AM

Personally, I'm not into analysis; however my plan is to install a performance/tow tuner to my truck as soon as it's out of warranty. Should improve mpg 15%.

davlin · 08-06-2014, 09:51 AM

Well, that's two Ecoboost TM owners that say they're getting 14+ while towing. That's why I like this forum! Mark's rig is probably getting closer to my tow weight, and both Tim and Mark have 4x4's, which I don't need. I don't know how much difference that will make to "real world" towing mpg figures, but it must be some.

Have either of you had any troubles with the intercooler or spark plugs? I think those problems were probably addressed in earlier models?

Dave

davlin · 08-06-2014, 10:04 AM

I thought you Ecoboost owners would be interested in looking at this. And yes, I understand the towed load was 9,000 lbs.

Dave

MarkoPolo · 08-06-2014, 10:17 AM

I do use 91 octane (Premium in Colorado) when I am towing. I figure 10 cents a gallon more is not that much. No problems with spark plugs or anything else. I truly was skeptical of this engine when I first researched it. I listened to to many internet trolls, I guess. But I am completely satisfied with it. I can't believe how much power is available when needed. It does seem to give you sort of pseudo diesel performance without all the hassles.

ArkyDoodle · 08-06-2014, 11:43 AM

I too own the EB and have regularly gotten 15-16MPG towing at 65mph....and ya gotta love the power!

hillbillyhotel · 08-06-2014, 01:53 PM

redtail,'

We do tow with the avalanche ,it's a beast in sheep's clothing,

the dodge is just kinda my toy
,04 ram 1500 slt w/5.7 4x4 short wheel base

mecicon · 08-09-2014, 08:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Redtail Cruiser

That is a lot of info, with the point being...?

^^^^^ Funny right there. ^^^^^

Panamapat · 10-19-2014, 09:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ArkyDoodle

I too own the EB and have regularly gotten 15-16MPG towing at 65mph....and ya gotta love the power!

Wow, I'm really impressed with that MPG for the ecoboost motor. You must have been able to stay out of boost where fuel enrichment kicks in protecting the motor but lowering fuel mileage.

I just finished a 3000 mile trip from Denver to Oregon and California, and averaged 15 mpg. I was driving mostly around 70-75 MPH except in California where I dropped to 60 MPH.

4.0l 4Runner towing 2720SL.

mecicon · 10-20-2014, 06:13 AM

Diesel = Low end torque VS Gas = Horsepower

4 cylinder gas engines are now capable of producing 220+ HP but only 170~ ft/lb.

Where the torque is produced (high RPM v low RPM) is more important than how much is produced (under towing conditions).

For all practical purposes a diesel is not "necessary" to pull a TM, but it certainly is "fun."