Fuel Mileage Increase?

[escort_jay102]

Is there any possible way to increase my mileage in my 86 k10 with a 454? Like a better carb, or intake manifold? I know it would be hard to get better mileage with such a huge motor, but just wonderin.

[electricmanbob]

I increased my mileage from 14.5 to 17mpg by just keeping my foot off the gas. Easy on the pedal when taking off and watch your braking. I noticed that when getting off the tollway, I kept my foot on the gas until I just got up to the light. When gas got closer to $4/gal. here, I started taking my foot off the gas when I approached the exit ramp and braked when I when I got to the light. It's a long ramp and I was still going 50 mph when I got to the light. It really made a difference, but I really have to concentrate to do it, old habits are hard to break.........

[sub006]

I have a 383 in my 1990 Suburban. I can pick up at least 2 mpg on the highway by staying in the right lane and setting the cruise control to 60, instead of 70 or more in the fast lane. We're talking an increase from 14 to 16-17 mpg. Your '86 big block probably doesn't have overdrive, but you still should be able to go from 9 or 10 mpg to 11 or 12.

Gearing and load are factors, but on level ground I think the major issue is that these trucks have the aerodynamics of a brick; wind resistance increases as the square of your speed. Slow down and save.

[silverado122775]

you could change our you rear-end gears to 3:10's that will reduce your RPM's but it will also reduce your torque. but you will save MPG's
Make sure you have a non-restrictive air-filter, like K&N. they make OEM styles. You can also upgrade your exhaust if you have not done so already. the easier it is for the truck to breathe in and exhale. the less gas/energy you will need.