Saving money and getting the most out of a tank of gas is always important, and even more so in these days of wildly fluctuating gas prices and a waning economy. Owning a large truck with a 5.7-liter HEMI isn't the answer to saving money on fuel. However, if you do own one, there are still some ways to improve your gas mileage. Certain driving techniques that you can easily do will make a difference on how far you can go on one tank of gas, even with a HEMI.
Reduce your speed. Unfortunately, the faster you are driving, the more gas your truck is guzzling. Most vehicles use significantly more gas above 60 mph. Dropping your speed just five miles per hour can save you money.
Inflate your tires to the recommended psi, and keep an eye on the pressure by checking it once a week. Underinflated tires can create drag that will decrease precious available miles from your tank of gas.
Check what grade of oil is recommended for your vehicle. Try to stick to that manufacturer recommendation since using a different grade of oil can decrease your miles per gallon.
Avoid the tendency to fill up the bed of your truck. Yes, with that powerful HEMI at the helm, you can haul heavy loads. But you shouldn't unless you have to. Just 100 pounds of extra weight in the bed of your truck can lower your mpg as much as 2 percent, according to the Fuel Economy website.
Stop leaving your truck in idle while you run into the store. Idling burns fuel while giving you zero miles to the gallon. A large engine like the 5.7-liter HEMI eats up gas when at an idle.
Use overdrive and cruise control when you are on the highway. Every little bit helps, and maintaining a speed or using overdrive to lower your engine's speed can help save gas. Plan your routes so that you can take care of multiple errands in one trip. Keeping your truck's HEMI warmed up will use less gas than multiple cold starts.
