Texas66

I have a 2013 Ecoboost, 3.55 rear end, 3800 miles on the odometer, and tow an Airstream trailer that weighs 7,300 lbs. In a couple of weeks I will be take my first trip, and will check MPG (calc. and on board computer). Can't wait.

Left Plate

As has been stated here before, speed, wind, higher profiles really kill mileage!

IMO, little changes seem to have larger effects with the Eco-Boost motor. That being said, I would suggest installing a boost gauge. This motor has enough torque, that once you learn that you can accomplish the same thing on less boost, then you know how hard to push the skinny pedal!
I started with a mechanical gauge, but switched to the Aeroforce as I can monitor other parameters. There are other options, this is just the route I took.

venatic

Towing this 14' trailer back this weekend with a load of oak and no idea how much weight was on there, I was averaging 13.5 mpg with 3.73 gears and max tow package. Wind was out of the SW and I was heading east which may have helped.

I also had it tow/haul mode and dropped out 6th gear.

Texas66

I do not understand the purpose of a boost gauge. At this point I do not intend to make any modifications to the engine.

Thanks.

Left Plate

Boost=gas! If you can pull the same hill with less boost, that would equal less gas. Without the gauge, you have no idea how much boost you are making!
I feel that it helps you to adjust your driving style if you are used to a V8 or do not have much pulling expierance?
I would not consider this a modification to the engine as the Aerforce gauge plugs into the OBD port. The live wire also plugs into the OBD port, but since it is a tune, I would consider that a modification! A mechanical boost gauge would plug into a vacum line with a t. No service department in their right mind would fault you for monitoring your equipment! That is my 2 cents!
Just trying to help!

SkiSmuggs

You can accomplish about the same thing with the fuel economy screen as you can with a boost gauge.
Also, travel trailers have terrible aerodynamics. The air goes around the truck and slams into the TT. A fifth wheel rides right behind the cab and the air flow around it before it closes around the rear of the truck.
Given that most trailer tires are rated for only 65 mph, you really shouldn't go faster than that and your mileage should improve somewhat.
Finally, I get better mileage towing by about 1.5 using premium over 87 octane, but this is only true while towing as the engine is working hard enough to take advantage of the higher octane.

Left Plate

I agree, although the economy screen is not as precise as some sort of numerical gauge. The thing I like about the Aeroforce, is that I can keep an eye on other parameters (ex:intake air temp,oil temp,coolant temp,engine load,throttle percentage, etc.) on the same gauge for a little more money than a mechanical boost gauge.

ecobeest

Well said SkiSmuggs!

For that matter just use the RPM. Keep the RPM in the sweet spot making the most power with the least amount of go go juice being consumed and it'll go a LONG way.

There's ZERO reason to tow about 65MPH also IMHO. Absolutely ZERO.

KRIEGHOFF

I can see everything that is going on with my motor with a GPS with Bluetooth.

When I am pulling my trailer the only time it isn't making boost is going down hill.

That is one reason I change my oil every 4,000 miles!

The other thing I have learned is the the motor runs warmer than most.

205 to 218.

benji666broz

Well my 13 Eco I run 91 and I use a SCT program also have a tonnoue cover. And u asked about my empty mpg, it's 13 to 14 no better doesn't matter if I drive 65 or 85 ????