I saw a study on the internet where the truck actually got better fuel economy with the tailgate on. It used a 94+ Dodge Ram as the example. The aerodynamics are designed to be optimal with the tailgate in the closed position. The wind tunnel tests showed that with the tailgate lowered, additional turbulence was created behind the cab, which created more drag. I don't think it accounted for much, but there was a measurable difference when they opened the tailgate (and in a negative way). I'll see if I can find that link.

I also pumped up the pressure on my tires. The door jamb calls for 35 PSI. The previous owner installed 32x11.50 BFG ATs, and they were at 32 PSI when I bought the truck. I put them back up at 35-36 PSI. That's probably "overinflated" for those tires on that wheel size (only 7" wide), and they may start to show an overinflated wear pattern, but I'll see if my MPG changes on this tank. The last two tanks, it's between between 14 and 15, so I should know if the inflation makes a difference.

Edit: and yes, I do "correct" the trip odometer read out for the larger tires (15%).

 

Although I didn't find exactly what I remember seeing, there was a plethora of information debunking the "myth".

I started a new thread (https://dodgeforum.com/m_1261733/tm.htm) because I figured it would generate discussion and didn't want to hijack this thread.

 

on my '05 I have the 33's and run them at 54/50 f/r... wear is even provided I keep them rotated. 73k miles & counting...

 

What is your wheel width? You'll be able to run higher pressures to keep an even wear pattern with wider wheels.

 

my mileage varies alot...worst has been 14, and best has been 17. average is usually around 16

i run my tires at 38-40 and check them at the first of every month. i usually set them at 40 and they lose a pound or two by the time i check them again. a couple other guys on this siteset theirs at 40 and have had good even wear so i went with what they did.

 

18x9's... however the tire I think is too big for the rim, should be a 10" rim IMO if you look at the pic in the sig you can kinda tell it's too narrow for the tire. btw, I picked these up used for $1000 bux plus my stockers (didnt have to sell them, traded which was even better). I also found a set of the exact same tire on CL for $400 bux... a deal I couldnt pass on.

 

i upped mine from 32-35/36 and went from 13 mpgs to 15 mpgs(approx) so i gained 1.5-2 mpgs for those 3-4 lbs of air IMO its worth it

 

something that i think has affected my mileage at least in eastern PA has been that i've been noticing a lot more stations where i fill up with the 10% ethanol stickers. i didnt notice them before so unless they didnt have the stickers i was guessing they weren't using it. i think this is one of the reasons why im not seeing as good of numbers as i used to.

 

I should be better at checking my pressure too. That, along with all the towing and short jaunts in town, probably affect my milage alot. Myabe I'll up my pressure a bit.

And yes ethanol will give you a drop in mpg. I don't use it unless I have to.

 

thats what i was doin too but it seems like most of the place i fill up at have the 10% stickers now it sucks