So it seems that the fuel mileage is killing me. I have done everything I can to get it up (with out 100's of dollars) and it just stays at 14mpg.

I'd like to trade for another truck but a 4 cylinder. EFI is a must.

Does anyone have suggestions for an easy to fix 4cylinder?
I am looking at:

Mazda B2200
Nissian KingCab
Chev s10

 

Look at the Toyota Taco 4cyl, I'm sure they are more fuel efficient than an s-10.

I don't think any truck will get "good" gas mileage, although some might get a little over 20mpg. If you don't NEED a truck, perhaps a 4cyl car is the better choice.

 

I had a 92 s10 with a 4.3 v6 that got 21mpg on the highway, but it isn't half the truck my Dakota is. It wasn't 4x4, sat much lower, less power, smaller tires, smaller truck overall.

 

I do need a truck.
And I do realize that i'm never going to get 50MPG but I know that it can be better.

I tow my 14" fiberglass boat and haul firewood.
Sometimes I get lumber ad soil too.

In other words, I don't need 200HP.

In the next couple of years, I want to convert to EV and pickups deal with the battery weight much better.

 

My '90 Isuzu 4x4 Pickup got 24mpg with normal driving. Good little truck, too.

 

Doesn't seem like there are many Isuzu's in my neck of the woods. Too bad.

 

There aren't many Isuzus anywhere... But it's pretty much identical to the Mitsubishi Mighty Max (Dodge D50), Nissan Hardbody, Ford Ranger, Mazda B-Trucks, etc. That era of early 90's small pickups was a time I have looked at in great detail. They had just gotten fuel injection working really well, so they were responsive. Most of them have a timing chain and manual locking hubs, drum rear and disc front, 29" tires on 15" wheels, 5 speed and a barebones interior. All can be had for under $3000 in great condition. The only reason I didn't get one when I bought the Dak was that $2k flat got me a V8 and an actual rear seat for my son.

 

My vote is for a Ford Ranger. The Ford 4-cylinder is one of the most reliable engines ever made, IMO. Parts are cheap and easy to find, and they're easy to work on.

Not sure how the mileage is, but it's GOT to be better than a Dakota.

 

Hey Tom,
I have worked on a Ranger before. IT was an oil pan gasket and it was a @($^&%# to replace. But I see them all over the place... good paint, good body, and my friend's had very little problem with his.

I am considering getting a 4cylinder 4x4 to help me with towing and hauling. I take a bit of a hit on MPG, but am I right assuming that out on the mountain or towing my boat it will help?

 

Any good online forums for Rangers?