Diesel engines typically attain greater fuel economy than their gasoline-powered counterparts. This is due to the fact that a single gallon of diesel fuel possesses more energy content than a single gallon of gasoline. In fact, according to Cars Direct, diesel fuel is more efficient than gasoline by a margin of roughly 33 percent. Thus, the Powerstroke diesel in your Ford F250 is more economical than a comparably equipped F250 with a gasoline engine. Of course, this does not imply that you can't boost your truck's current mileage.
Exchange the Powerstroke's current oil for a top of the line synthetic. Although synthetic oil will have a greater upfront cost, it will reduce your fuel costs due to improved efficiency in your Powerstroke engine. In fact, according to a test conducted by Truck World, switching to a premium synthetic in a 2004 Ford F250 Powerstroke resulted in an 11-percent improvement in fuel economy. This also included switching to synthetic oils for the transfer case and differential.
Check the F250's tire pressure. Also ensure the truck's tires are rotated and aligned regularly. According to the Federal Trade Commission, tires with low pressure and/or tires that are misaligned may result in a 3-percent drop in fuel efficiency. Thus, a simple way to boost the trucks fuel mileage is to keep the tires full of air.
Substitute the F250's current air filter for high-performance filter and intake. Many stock filters are easily clogged, while the stock intake does not allow for sufficient airflow. Installing a high-performance intake and filter will boost airflow. This will improve the Powerstroke's efficiency and boost fuel mileage.
Buy and install an electronic performance module exclusively designed for the Ford Powerstroke diesel. By installing a module, you will essentially reprogram the truck's computer or electronic control unit. The module will be designed to program the engine to run at a more efficient level, while also providing more power.
Modify the manner in which you operate the F250. You will boost the truck's fuel mileage if you reduce the time you allow the Powerstroke to idle. Just 10 minutes of idling can cost you 1 percent of the fuel in the truck's fuel tank. When driving your Ford truck, also steer clear of city driving and congested roadways. Use the truck's AC less often and keep your speed under 60 mph.
