We have (4) 2000 model trucks, all powerstrokes. Mileage ranges between 130,000 to 200,000. We wish to put performance chips in them to increase fuel efficiency. Not necessarily concered so much with towing, as max loads we tow are about 6000 lbs and is not so often. What is the best option without having to perform any additional mods other than the chip? Or is this advisable?
The best and safest fix/mod would be to install a low restriction exhast on all of them as this will increase turbo efficency, give you a little more free power, raise MPG some while lowering EGT which extends engine life.
As you might have guessed, with fuel costs what they are and manufacturer claims being what they say to sell product, this question has been asks alot recently. Below are some snippets from other threads to which I've responded.
There really isn't anything that will make such a difference that you'll get an overall cost savings or ROI within the life of the vehicle. For example, let's do the math...
At 12k miles per year, 18 MPG, and $2.65 p/gal = total yearly fuel of $1767. With a 10% increase in MPG, you save $160. I don't know any of the chip guys, or anyone else for that matter that claim a 10% increase in MPG, so I don't think you'll find any $160 or less aftermarket solution that provides a 10% increase in MPG.
Or, some other figures to contemplate...
adding a cold air intake system, chip tuner, and high flow exhaust system will cost about $1000 (low end). With that you may, and I reiterate "may", get a 10% increase...as long as you keep your foot out of it...because you'll also get a performance gain that may be hard to resist. To recover the $1000 in the 1st year you'd need a %130 increase (equal to about 41 MPG). Or, going back to only the 10% increase, you'd need 6.25 years just to break even...are you going to keep your vehicles for another 6 years?
Granted, the more miles you drive per year and how often and what you tow and carry will affect the numbers.
For me, I drive, carry, and tow alot. I add aftermarket enhancements for performance, which in a small way increase my MPG. But, I'm more concerned that I can get up a hill, merge into traffic, or pull out of my driveway.
More at issue are: (1) getting better air flow (intake and exhaust) to help both economy and performance, as well as EG temps and (2) what's the ROI when you factor in the cost of the tuner and other mods to the fuel saving cost. If you don't do alot of driving and/or towing it may take a long time to realize the ROI.
FWIW, be leery when a manufacturer makes an MPG increase claim. For example a claim of 3-4 MPG increase means your 18 MPG truck would need to be 17-23% more efficient...kinda unlikely. When looking at claims, if the manufacturer can't provide exact figures for your vehicle, then percentage increases provide a better measurement than flat MPG number increases.
This may not have been the answer you were looking for, but hope it helps anyway.
Is anybody familiar with this particular chip?
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