Best MPGs yet!

[k_redball92]

Thanks Rackster!! and yeah I think I might have an account on those forums from a long time ago...I used to go there whenever I had issues...lots of great information there, but I havent gone in a while.

Have fun on your vacation!! and I know what you mean about being called slow lol...but all you have to do is show the data...and they wish they were getting that many MPGs out of their vehicles. I dont even think about hypermilling anymore when I drive...It's just become habit...and instead of looking at my speedo I just glance over at my ultragauge and check out my throttle position, engine load, and instant MPGs to see if I'm driving the right speed...Sometimes when I try to drive normally it just feels like too much work...pushing the gas pedal nearly to the floor...then breaking heavily when I hit a light or stop sign...then accelerating again...it's just so natural now to use hypermilling techniques...and I know that over the course of the next 30 years, I'm going to save a ton of money lol

[Rackster]

OK, so the trip was great: good weather and time well spent with the family. The long drive to and from allowed me to gather data on the MDX. Not impressive, but given it's an MDX, you get what you get and don't get upset (so my son says). Driving 55 mph, I got the best FE; around 24 MPGs. With every 5 MPH increase, I lost about 7-10%. Many places in the South, you can drive 70 mph legally, but at that speed, 20% loss over 55 mph (19-20 MPGs). So, the EPA ratings look to be spot on: 17Cty/22Hwy.

So, if you have the time, driving 55 is the right idea. Sticking to the smaller state highways is a better way to do that. Driving off-peak is advisable as well. On the trip back, we drove during the busier periods, and travel was slower, more variable, and included many more redlight stops and starts.

But it was a good challenge!

Kevin

[litesong]

Originally Posted by k_redball92

But in that 65 miles I only used 2.5 gallons. that's 26 MPG in a V6 4x4. This was I-80 in western PA so there are alot of steep climbs.

You didn't gas up in either Paineville, Ohio or Erie, PA did you? There's a single station in each town that has 100% pure gasoline(ethanol-free). 100% pure gasoline will give you 6-8% better mpg(some say more), a smoother, quieter, more responsive & slightly more power. Go to pure-gas.org for the minority of 5000 stations(10 in every 350) (have increased to 5300 stations;11 in every 350) that sell 100% ethanol-free gasoline.

[k_redball92]

Rackster- yeah I have found the same with my ranger...I can get 25 consistantly driving at 50-55 but then only 19 at 70...I've been sticking to the country roads...and ive noticed that maybe driving 60 on a freeway is better than driving 50 on a state road...if that state road has stop signs and stop lights. For me they bother average out to 22MPGs approximately...but one trip gets you to your destination faster lol

litesong - Thanks for the heads up about those pure gas places in Painsville and erie...a little too far for me to get gas though...but when im in those areas ill be sure to do some testing.

[litesong]

Originally Posted by k_redball92

litesong - Thanks for the heads up about those pure gas places in Painsville and erie...a little too far for me to get gas though...but when im in those areas ill be sure to do some testing.

Before you gas up on 100% pure(ethanol-free) gasoline, take accurate records of your previous 10% ethanol blend tanks & then your 100% pure gasoline tanks. Have your tank almost empty to get rid of nearly all the ethanol right off the bat. Try to test a series of tanks together. As much as your mpg, pay attention before & after, to the smoothness, quietness & extra HP(less downshifting to ascend hills) of your vehicle.

I see you have Germack & Ashtabula Airports near you. They could have exemptions so they can sell 100% pure gasoline. Also, check out Lake Erie marinas because they should have exemptions to sell 100% pure gasoline.

[shadescape]

Originally Posted by k_redball92

yep...summer here maxes out around 85 degrees...there might be a little more room for improvement...but what im really excited about now is I broke down and ordered an ultragauge...hopefully I'll have it tomorrow...cant wait to test it!!!

congratualtions-

I have 2 Escapes, 4WD, 3.0, auto
I also ordered the Ultra Gauge EM- should be here shortly
already made the custom bracket & know where I'm mounting mine and have my layout for the gauges I want