MPG, mods and springs.

[boertje]

Just took a trip from California (mostly I-70) to Tennessee, then to Iowa and back to Cal (I-80). Total miles was 5372.6 and total gallons of diesel was 294.4 which is 18.25 mpg. We had all kinds of conditions including downpours, heavy tail and head winds and all kinds of road grades. The Excursion was loaded to the hilt with stuff and 5 people. I had just installed the DP tuner with the 80econ tune and all I can say is that I am well pleased. I have made this trip many times and have never bettered 17 under the same conditions. This engine never ran better nor smoother than on this trip. I used Delo 400LE 15-w40 and used about 1 quart. My speeds on the interstates were mostly 75-80 mph where prudent to do so. For the first time I out did my '04 dmax on this trip. While in Sioux Center Iowa, I stopped by the local Ford dealer and picked up the new gray CPS for under 30 bux and installed it. No difference on performance and such but I changed it just for peace of mind.
This is also the first major trip I have taken with the V & F code springs. It handled so much better than past trips and the ride was great...nice and smooth...I am glad to have added that leaf from the original X rear spring pack to the F code. It looks like my mods are finally finished now that I have just turned 80k miles.