Old-fashioned Tips for the Best Fuel Economy
With gas prices above $3.50 per gallon this summer in the U.S., there has been a lot of press on improving fuel economy. Interestingly, most of the ideas are not new at all.
Here’s some timeless wisdom from my 1964 Ford Falcon Owner’s Manual:
FOR BEST ECONOMY
1. start gradually, accelerate gently
Jack-rabbit starts and sudden bursts of speed are the main causes of excessive fuel consumption in ordinary driving. By accelerating more slowly, you’ll need less power and gasoline to move the car the same distance.
2. drive at moderate speeds
Your Falcon’s best economy is at speeds between 35 and 60 mph. The faster you drive your car, the greater your fuel costs.
3. drive at steady speeds
Wherever possible, vary your car’s speed as little as possible. The driver who jiggles the accelerator pedal, moving the car in little bursts and pauses, is simply throwing away nickels and dimes.
4. avoid hard braking
Each brake application means the loss of much energy already consumed to get your car up to speed. You’ll save gas if, instead of rushing up to a red traffic signal or stop sign, you simply let up the accelerator pedal so that the car does most of the slowing down itself.
5. shut off ignition when parked
An idling engine uses a richer mixture to prevent stalling. And since the car is not moving, the gasoline is wasted…
6. tire pressures
Keep tires up to recommend pressures. In fact, 4-6 pounds extra pressure will improve economy–especially when carrying heavy loads–if you don’t mind slightly “harder” riding qualities.
Tire Inflation Note of Caution
Often there is a recommended psi discrepancy between what the owner’s manual says and what is written on the tire sidewall. Never inflate tires to a higher psi than is printed on the sidewall. Some people advise never to inflate to a pressure exceeding the car manufacturer’s recommendations, as that could lead to tire wear, less traction, and increased stopping distance. However, I believe that some auto manufacturers take many factors into consideration when determining what psi to recommend. Some factors, like ride comfort, may lead them to recommend a lower than necessary tire pressure. Use your best judgment when inflating your tires.
See Also:
How To Save Gas and Ease Traffic
Improving MPG: Hi-Tech vs Low-Tech Methods