Suggestions for 95 Dodge P/U 5.9 performance?

[pcarss]

So, being a newby here, and having done a search with no results, I'd like to ask the members for advice on the following new thread.

I have a dead-stock 95 Ram 3/4 ton pickup, 5.9 gas, A/T, 2wd, and I believe about a 3.50:1 rear end, that I use mainly to carry a truck camper & tow a boat. Of course, the fuel mileage really sucks with that load. What I'm wondering is what mods would be worthwhile to improve efficiency, without spending a ton of money . . . cold air intake/K&N filter? Headers? more open exhaust? (I believe it's a 3" dia on there now.) I usually drive with the O/D off, but it's still tough going up the hills. I hate being passed by semi's!

All suggestions greatfully received!

Pete Carss

[olddog]

I think all the things you mentioned will help with HP & torque, which should help you compete with the semi's, but I doubt any of them will help the MPG. Making more HP burns more fuel, so while you are using it, it's going to hurt MPG.

Tire pressure, air drag, synthetic & teflon oils and greases, are the types of things that would help MPG.

[pcarss]

Thanks for confirming my thoughts. I'm assuming if I don't try to drive "harder" after the mods than before, I'll gain some efficency which would translate to improved economy. . . Although it would be nice to pass the semi's!

Pete

[OffRoader]

Hey Pete, check out www.dto.org and/or www.speedtweeks.com see-ya-there.

[dougbfresh]

Originally Posted by pcarss

I'll gain some efficency which would translate to improved economylthough it would be nice to pass the semi's!

Pete

Unlikely. You want 2 different things. More power (takes more fuel) and better economy (less fuel). If you want more power to pass "Semi's", it's going to cost you fuel.

[olddog]

Originally Posted by pcarss

I use mainly to carry a truck camper & tow a boat. Of course, the fuel mileage really sucks with that load.

One of the biggest fuel saving improvements envented is that big ugly air dam on all the semi, just in front of the trailer. I don't know if anyone is selling anything for your camper and boat, but you have to be burning up a good 20 hp or more just pushing and dragging air. Go to a boat and RV show and ask around or search the net. I would bet this is where you could get the most bang for your $$$.