Additech and the Joe Gibbs Racing champion crew chief Greg Zipadelli have some expert tips to help drivers improve fuel efficiency:
1. Check tire pressure and inspect tires for uneven tread wear – Driving with under inflated tires can cause a loss in fuel efficiency.
2. Remember to tighten fuel caps with each refueling – loose or missing fuel caps allow fuel to evaporate causing a loss in fuel efficiency of up to two miles per gallon. It will also get you put out-of-service if it is missing entirely.
3. Don’t be an aggressive driver – aggressive driving can lower fuel mileage dramatically. Observe the speed limit. Mileage decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 MPH.
4. Avoid excessive idling. Sitting idle gets zero miles per gallon.
Additech operates more than 2,100 fueling positions across 16 states at major fuel center retailers.
Samples the right way
SHOPCO stores’ fleet manager Herman Miller, says it is important to draw oil that is not contaminated by sloppy collection techniques. Miller installs a cap fitting between the full-flow filter and the part-flow system on his fleet’s trucks.
He uses a 1/8th in. capped pipe fit into a 1/8th in. fitting. His technicians use a football inflation needle fitted with a plastic tube to drain oil into a bottle. They drain two or three ounces out of the system and then collect the sample.
Reduce wheel lock-up
According to the brake experts at ArvinMeritor, anti-lock braking systems reduce wheel lock-up. That can result in spin-out and loss of control. Still, you must make sure your foundation brakes are adjusted properly and that proper maintenance guidelines are followed.
