02 4.0 auto fuel economy?

[QuickSilver]

I had to buy a new truck. I killed my old one in water, hydrolocked and broke a rod. It was a 98 ranger 4x4 3.0 5 speed dual exhaust/no muffler. My new baby is an 02 ranger 4.0 4x4 with an auto. With the oldie I was getting about 22 mpg with mostly country driving. What can I expect with my new ride? I'm not sure what gear ratio it has in the pumpkins. But at 55 it runs right at 2k rpm. I drive very lightly on the country roads. Keeping it right at 35-40 mph which runs the motor right below 2k.

Also, do aftermarket airfilter kits improve fuel economy much?

Thanks!

 

[exbass94]

I usually get 17 mpg with my 4.0 auto 4x4. That's mostly highway driving. And no, aftermarket air filter kits won't do anything for gas mileage.

 

[QuickSilver]

Is there any simple mods that can be done to improve fuel economy? 17 seems poor for a small pickup.

 

[exbass94]

Not really, just keep it maintained and running properly, and go easy on the gas pedal. 17 mpg is about average for all small V6 pickups.

 

[kerry]

I've also got an '02 extended cab 4.0. The best I've ever done in mixed driving was 17.

In order to do that well, I have to keep the tires inflated to the max on the sidewall, keep excess weight out of the truck, and pay attention to condition of the air filter & other tune-up components.

These trucks are designed to haul & tow, not for gas milage.

Consider installing a low ratio differential if you need better milage than you are able to get by paying attention to the details & driving appropriately.

Kerry