MPG Reality Check

[Ernie Ekberg]

Steve- send some of that warmth to Texas. You don't need it all Ernie Ekberg 83PT40 Wanderlodge Weatherford, Tx 817-475-3991 www.ernieekbergflooring.net --- On Mon, 2/15/10, ebirder2000@... wrote: From: ebirder2000@... Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] MPG Reality Check To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com Date: Monday, February 15, 2010, 2:39 PM Bob, I don't dispute your method or your finding at all. My only comment is, that mileage seems too low.I would expect thatyour mileage would be closer to 8mg. But,that's only based on other folks bragging including my own,that I have observed. Steve (at Painted Rocks campground). Temp 80 degrees with absolute clear blue skies. In a message dated 2/12/2010 12:22:01 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, sundance101@ comcast.net writes: Finally, after 7 years, I filled the fuel tank to the top, drove 1015 miles, and filled it again. The 167 gallons calculates to about 6 MPG. The method has plenty of potential for error. The odometer reads low and I don't have a GPS. I used the Google mileage plus 5% to account for wrong turns, finding RV sites, etc. The route was Brookings, OR to Q by way of Hwy 101 and Malibu, CA. The tank is so big that I figure the fill could be off by as much as 10%. If the fill-up were 10% low, the MPG would have been 6.7. If the fill-up were 10% high, the MPG would have been about 5.5. Other details: 1984 FC31 with California 210HP turbo 3208. Road speed about 58 MPH. 4.89 gears. 11R22.5 Michelins at 105 and 95 PSI. Towing a Honda CRV. Air filter has about 5000 miles. The air intake is the enlarged version designed for the 250HP turbo engine. Never blows any black unless I make an operator error. To achieve the 10 MPG sometimes suggested for the FC, my mileage estimate would need to be off by almost 700 miles, or the fill-up would need to be off by almost 70 gallons. I'd be interested any anyone else's MPG observations and the method used. Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA

[Chuck Wheeler]

Several things could be affecting Bob’s
mileage.

1. He is towing.

2. I don’t know where he is in WA,
but there is a lot of it that is more like mountain running.  I can run 800
miles and not change over 600ft elevation.

3. Do they pump a “winter blend”
of diesel in WA?  My mileage in the truck has always been lower on “Winter
Blend”

3. He has more power than I do and when
the power is there we tend to use it. My cousin followed us on a trip with his Monaco and he
gained almost 2mpg driving the way we have to.  (He said it wasn’t worth
it!)

4. We do a lot of winter traveling and so
it is not necessary to run the generator.

5. I believe that a “California” engine
runs with different injection timing and advance curve.

6. I usually run with Gray and black water
tanks empty, about ¼ tanks of fresh water and on the bottom half of the fuel
capacity to keep my weight down.  That’s why I have to compute mpg over a
many miles to get an idea of what milage I am getting.

I track milage mainly to keep an idea of
how the bus is running. 

- Chuck
Wheeler-

1982 FC 31SB Fort Worth TX

---

From: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com [mailto:WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of ebirder2000@...

Sent: Monday, February 15, 2010
2:39 PM

To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com

Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum]
MPG Reality Check

Bob, I don't dispute your method or your
finding at all. My only comment is, that mileage seems too
low.I would expect thatyour mileage would be closer to 8mg.
But,that's only based on other folks bragging including my own,that
I have observed.

Steve (at Painted Rocks campground). Temp
80 degrees with absolute clear blue skies.

In a message dated 2/12/2010 12:22:01
P.M. Pacific Standard Time, sundance101@comcast.net writes:

Finally, after 7 years,
I filled the fuel tank to the top, drove 1015 miles, and filled it again. The
167 gallons calculates to about 6 MPG.



The method has plenty of potential for error. The odometer reads low and I
don't have a GPS. I used the Google mileage plus 5% to account for wrong turns,
finding RV sites, etc. The route was Brookings, OR to Q by way of Hwy 101 and Malibu, CA.



The tank is so big that I figure the fill could be off by as much as 10%. If
the fill-up were 10% low, the MPG would have been 6.7. If the fill-up were 10%
high, the MPG would have been about 5.5.



Other details: 1984 FC31 with California
210HP turbo 3208. Road speed about 58 MPH. 4.89 gears. 11R22.5 Michelins at 105
and 95 PSI. Towing a Honda CRV. Air filter has about 5000 miles. The air intake
is the enlarged version designed for the 250HP turbo engine. Never blows any
black unless I make an operator error.



To achieve the 10 MPG sometimes suggested for the FC, my mileage estimate would
need to be off by almost 700 miles, or the fill-up would need to be off by
almost 70 gallons.



I'd be interested any anyone else's MPG observations and the method used.



Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA

[Bill Mills]

I have the same set up as below except a 250hp turbo. I am probably stuck with MPG regardless, but I wonder more about the best range on the torque curve to operate at. Also what is the top RPM on this engine and is it governed to protect from over rev.? Armed with this information would I not be prepared to reach max MPG? Thanks Bill 83 FC35 Livingston Tx. --- On Mon, 2/15/10, Chuck Wheeler wrote: From: Chuck Wheeler Subject: RE: [WanderlodgeForum] MPG Reality Check To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com Date: Monday, February 15, 2010, 6:57 PM Several things could be affecting Bob’s mileage. 1. He is towing. 2. I don’t know where he is in WA, but there is a lot of it that is more like mountain running. I can run 800 miles and not change over 600ft elevation. 3. Do they pump a “winter blend” of diesel in WA? My mileage in the truck has always been lower on “Winter Blend” 3. He has more power than I do and when the power is there we tend to use it. My cousin followed us on a trip with his Monaco and he gained almost 2mpg driving the way we have to. (He said it wasn’t worth it!) 4. We do a lot of winter traveling and so it is not necessary to run the generator. 5. I believe that a “ California ” engine runs with different injection timing and advance curve. 6. I usually run with Gray and black water tanks empty, about ¼ tanks of fresh water and on the bottom half of the fuel capacity to keep my weight down. That’s why I have to compute mpg over a many miles to get an idea of what milage I am getting. I track milage mainly to keep an idea of how the bus is running. - Chuck Wheeler- 1982 FC 31SB Fort Worth TX From: WanderlodgeForum@ yahoogroups. com [mailto: WanderlodgeForum@ yahoogroups. com ] On Behalf Of ebirder2000@ aol.com Sent: Monday, February 15, 2010 2:39 PM To: WanderlodgeForum@ yahoogroups. com Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] MPG Reality Check Bob, I don't dispute your method or your finding at all. My only comment is, that mileage seems too low.I would expect thatyour mileage would be closer to 8mg. But,that's only based on other folks bragging including my own,that I have observed. Steve (at Painted Rocks campground). Temp 80 degrees with absolute clear blue skies. In a message dated 2/12/2010 12:22:01 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, sundance101@ comcast.net writes: Finally, after 7 years, I filled the fuel tank to the top, drove 1015 miles, and filled it again. The 167 gallons calculates to about 6 MPG. The method has plenty of potential for error. The odometer reads low and I don't have a GPS. I used the Google mileage plus 5% to account for wrong turns, finding RV sites, etc. The route was Brookings , OR to Q by way of Hwy 101 and Malibu , CA . The tank is so big that I figure the fill could be off by as much as 10%. If the fill-up were 10% low, the MPG would have been 6.7. If the fill-up were 10% high, the MPG would have been about 5.5. Other details: 1984 FC31 with California 210HP turbo 3208. Road speed about 58 MPH. 4.89 gears. 11R22.5 Michelins at 105 and 95 PSI. Towing a Honda CRV. Air filter has about 5000 miles. The air intake is the enlarged version designed for the 250HP turbo engine. Never blows any black unless I make an operator error. To achieve the 10 MPG sometimes suggested for the FC, my mileage estimate would need to be off by almost 700 miles, or the fill-up would need to be off by almost 70 gallons. I'd be interested any anyone else's MPG observations and the method used. Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA

[freewill2008]

Chuck - Thanks for those observations. The fuel in this case was pumped in
Brookings, Oregon and the route was from there to Q.

If our California turbo really makes more power than the 210 NA, it surely does
get used when climbing the very frequent west coast hills. More power is more
fuel.

The genset in this FC31 is gas, so genset operation does not affect the diesel
tank.

I'm sure the setup is unique to the California motor. For example, the torque
is more than a 225T even though the HP is less. Cat has a manual with all the
details but I haven't purchased it yet.

The posts to this thread are much appreciated. I intend to buy a GPS and start
keeping better track of miles and gallons. As Chuck says, tracking fuel
consumption is one way to monitor engine condition.

Meanwhile, sitting here in the Arizona desert soaking up sun uses zero diesel
fuel! )

Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA

--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Chuck Wheeler" wrote:
>
> Several things could be affecting Bob's mileage.
>
> 1. He is towing.
>
> 2. I don't know where he is in WA, but there is a lot of it that is more
> like mountain running. I can run 800 miles and not change over 600ft
> elevation.
>
> 3. Do they pump a "winter blend" of diesel in WA? My mileage in the truck
> has always been lower on "Winter Blend"
>
> 3. He has more power than I do and when the power is there we tend to use
> it. My cousin followed us on a trip with his Monaco and he gained almost
> 2mpg driving the way we have to. (He said it wasn't worth it!)
>
> 4. We do a lot of winter traveling and so it is not necessary to run the
> generator.
>
> 5. I believe that a "California" engine runs with different injection timing
> and advance curve.
>
> 6. I usually run with Gray and black water tanks empty, about ¼ tanks of
> fresh water and on the bottom half of the fuel capacity to keep my weight
> down. That's why I have to compute mpg over a many miles to get an idea of
> what milage I am getting.
>
>
>
> I track milage mainly to keep an idea of how the bus is running.
>
>
>
> - Chuck Wheeler-
>
> 1982 FC 31SB Fort Worth TX
>
> _____
>
> From: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of ebirder2000@...
> Sent: Monday, February 15, 2010 2:39 PM
> To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] MPG Reality Check
>
>
>
>
>
> Bob, I don't dispute your method or your finding at all. My only comment
> is, that mileage seems too low. I would expect that your mileage would be
> closer to 8mg. But, that's only based on other folks bragging including my
> own,that I have observed.
>
>
>
> Steve (at Painted Rocks campground). Temp 80 degrees with absolute clear
> blue skies.
>
>
>
> In a message dated 2/12/2010 12:22:01 P.M. Pacific Standard Time,
> sundance101@... writes:
>
>
>
> Finally, after 7 years, I filled the fuel tank to the top, drove 1015 miles,
> and filled it again. The 167 gallons calculates to about 6 MPG.
>
> The method has plenty of potential for error. The odometer reads low and I
> don't have a GPS. I used the Google mileage plus 5% to account for wrong
> turns, finding RV sites, etc. The route was Brookings, OR to Q by way of Hwy
> 101 and Malibu, CA.
>
> The tank is so big that I figure the fill could be off by as much as 10%. If
> the fill-up were 10% low, the MPG would have been 6.7. If the fill-up were
> 10% high, the MPG would have been about 5.5.
>
> Other details: 1984 FC31 with California 210HP turbo 3208. Road speed about
> 58 MPH. 4.89 gears. 11R22.5 Michelins at 105 and 95 PSI. Towing a Honda CRV.
> Air filter has about 5000 miles. The air intake is the enlarged version
> designed for the 250HP turbo engine. Never blows any black unless I make an
> operator error.
>
> To achieve the 10 MPG sometimes suggested for the FC, my mileage estimate
> would need to be off by almost 700 miles, or the fill-up would need to be
> off by almost 70 gallons.
>
> I'd be interested any anyone else's MPG observations and the method used.
>
> Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA
>

[Chuck Wheeler]

BOB,

HP is a function of Torque and RPM. 
Without knowing the RPM that is used for two motors to compute HP there is not
enough to run a fair comparison.  Up to a point torque will increase as the
timing is retarded but mileage will decrease.  The peak combustion temp will
decrease but the average will increase and this will reduce emissions.  The newer
motors can decrease emissions and increase efficiency but this was not the case
for most of the power plants produced in the 80s.  At that time they were just
trying to meet the emission regulations and did not have time to re-engineer
the motors.

The two things that helped our mileage
were getting a valve adjust, having the timing set, and solving the problem of
hot air from the radiator entering the intake system.  Some folks have had
improvement adding more area to the air intake but I used a very sensitive
device used to measure HVACs duct pressure and could not measure any negative
pressure in the existing setup for our 3208NA.  Makes me wonder if possibly
they just solved the heat problem in a different way or turbos do have a issue.

I believe, especially after our accident,
that we have one of the softest units out there.  I know we pay a mileage penalty
due to the weight, but given a choice I will take the lower mileage.  Walk
around a repair facility and you wouldn’t ride around the block in most
new motor homes.

Our FC31 happens to have a diesel
generator, 12.5kw for what ever reason as I can power everything on ½ of that!

- Chuck
Wheeler-

1982 FC 31SB Fort Worth TX

---

From: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com [mailto:WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of freewill2008

Sent: Monday, February 15, 2010
8:09 PM

To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com

Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Re:
MPG Reality Check

Chuck - Thanks for those observations. The fuel in
this case was pumped in Brookings,
Oregon and the route was from
there to Q.



If our California
turbo really makes more power than the 210 NA, it surely does get used when
climbing the very frequent west coast hills. More power is more fuel.



The genset in this FC31 is gas, so genset operation does not affect the diesel
tank.



I'm sure the setup is unique to the California
motor. For example, the torque is more than a 225T even though the HP is less.
Cat has a manual with all the details but I haven't purchased it yet.



The posts to this thread are much appreciated. I intend to buy a GPS and start
keeping better track of miles and gallons. As Chuck says, tracking fuel
consumption is one way to monitor engine condition.



Meanwhile, sitting here in the Arizona
desert soaking up sun uses zero diesel fuel! )



Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA



--- In "WanderlodgeForum%40yahoogroups.com",
"Chuck Wheeler" .> wrote:

>

> Several things could be affecting Bob's mileage.

>

> 1. He is towing.

>

> 2. I don't know where he is in WA, but there is a lot of it that is more

> like mountain running. I can run 800 miles and not change over 600ft

> elevation.

>

> 3. Do they pump a "winter blend" of diesel in WA? My mileage in
the truck

> has always been lower on "Winter Blend"

>

> 3. He has more power than I do and when the power is there we tend to use

> it. My cousin followed us on a trip with his Monaco and he gained almost

> 2mpg driving the way we have to. (He said it wasn't worth it!)

>

> 4. We do a lot of winter traveling and so it is not necessary to run the

> generator.

>

> 5. I believe that a "California"
engine runs with different injection timing

> and advance curve.

>

> 6. I usually run with Gray and black water tanks empty, about ¼ tanks of

> fresh water and on the bottom half of the fuel capacity to keep my weight

> down. That's why I have to compute mpg over a many miles to get an idea of

> what milage I am getting.

>

>

>

> I track milage mainly to keep an idea of how the bus is running.

>

>

>

> - Chuck Wheeler-

>

> 1982 FC 31SB Fort Worth
TX

>

> _____

>

> From: "WanderlodgeForum%40yahoogroups.com"

> [mailto:"WanderlodgeForum%40yahoogroups.com"]
On Behalf Of ebirder2000@...

> Sent: Monday, February 15, 2010 2:39 PM

> To: "WanderlodgeForum%40yahoogroups.com"

> Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] MPG Reality Check

>

>

>

>

>

> Bob, I don't dispute your method or your finding at all. My only comment

> is, that mileage seems too low. I would expect that your mileage would be

> closer to 8mg. But, that's only based on other folks bragging including my

> own,that I have observed.

>

>

>

> Steve (at Painted Rocks campground). Temp 80 degrees with absolute clear

> blue skies.

>

>

>

> In a message dated 2/12/2010 12:22:01 P.M. Pacific Standard Time,

> sundance101@... writes:

>

>

>

> Finally, after 7 years, I filled the fuel tank to the top, drove 1015
miles,

> and filled it again. The 167 gallons calculates to about 6 MPG.

>

> The method has plenty of potential for error. The odometer reads low and I

> don't have a GPS. I used the Google mileage plus 5% to account for wrong

> turns, finding RV sites, etc. The route was Brookings, OR
to Q by way of Hwy

> 101 and Malibu, CA.

>

> The tank is so big that I figure the fill could be off by as much as 10%.
If

> the fill-up were 10% low, the MPG would have been 6.7. If the fill-up were

> 10% high, the MPG would have been about 5.5.

>

> Other details: 1984 FC31 with California
210HP turbo 3208. Road speed about

> 58 MPH. 4.89 gears. 11R22.5 Michelins at 105 and 95 PSI. Towing a Honda
CRV.

> Air filter has about 5000 miles. The air intake is the enlarged version

> designed for the 250HP turbo engine. Never blows any black unless I make
an

> operator error.

>

> To achieve the 10 MPG sometimes suggested for the FC, my mileage estimate

> would need to be off by almost 700 miles, or the fill-up would need to be

> off by almost 70 gallons.

>

> I'd be interested any anyone else's MPG observations and the method used.

>

> Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA

>

[Al Scudder]

You folks are way toooo cridical offinding or formulating of the MPG.



On flat roads I get 6.5 on hills I get 5.8. The engine is a Cummins M11 450. I fill up when it is convienent not when I need it. You can never use the fuel that you left at the pump. My boating days and 4 years in the USCG taught me that and a my old sage friend that is a pilot taught me these things.



I never worry about the MPG because to me it means to me I Mostly Prefer Going where I want to go. Since the diference to my 2000 LX is 0.7 miles which is 105 more miles at a usaable rate of 80% of the tank (175) I ALWAYS plan trips on 5 MPH.



Since I do like the comforts of home and the safety of my gastromic supply of food we always run with heat in the cold, cold in the heat and the referer cold all the time. My genny runs when the the coach is going down the road or sitting in the rest area.Cruise speed is what the traffic will bear. You want to cruise at 70 I'm with you want a earlier ETA I'm there on time.



When we purchased our BB my goal was to have fun and run. I always have fun and the run, will go when ever there is and sometimes not, a excuse to do it.


Scooter 2000LX Ocqueoc, MI

---

To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
From: sundance101@...
Date: Tue, 16 Feb 2010 02:09:21 +0000
Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: MPG Reality Check

Chuck - Thanks for those observations. The fuel in this case was pumped in Brookings, Oregon and the route was from there to Q.

If our California turbo really makes more power than the 210 NA, it surely does get used when climbing the very frequent west coast hills. More power is more fuel.

The genset in this FC31 is gas, so genset operation does not affect the diesel tank.

I'm sure the setup is unique to the California motor. For example, the torque is more than a 225T even though the HP is less. Cat has a manual with all the details but I haven't purchased it yet.

The posts to this thread are much appreciated. I intend to buy a GPS and start keeping better track of miles and gallons. As Chuck says, tracking fuel consumption is one way to monitor engine condition.

Meanwhile, sitting here in the Arizona desert soaking up sun uses zero diesel fuel! )

Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA

--- In "WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com", "Chuck Wheeler" .> wrote:
>
> Several things could be affecting Bob's mileage.
>
> 1. He is towing.
>
> 2. I don't know where he is in WA, but there is a lot of it that is more
> like mountain running. I can run 800 miles and not change over 600ft
> elevation.
>
> 3. Do they pump a "winter blend" of diesel in WA? My mileage in the truck
> has always been lower on "Winter Blend"
>
> 3. He has more power than I do and when the power is there we tend to use
> it. My cousin followed us on a trip with his Monaco and he gained almost
> 2mpg driving the way we have to. (He said it wasn't worth it!)
>
> 4. We do a lot of winter traveling and so it is not necessary to run the
> generator.
>
> 5. I believe that a "California" engine runs with different injection timing
> and advance curve.
>
> 6. I usually run with Gray and black water tanks empty, about ¼ tanks of
> fresh water and on the bottom half of the fuel capacity to keep my weight
> down. That's why I have to compute mpg over a many miles to get an idea of
> what milage I am getting.
>
>
>
> I track milage mainly to keep an idea of how the bus is running.
>
>
>
> - Chuck Wheeler-
>
> 1982 FC 31SB Fort Worth TX
>
> _____
>
> From: "WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com"
> [mailto:"WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com"] On Behalf Of ebirder2000@...
> Sent: Monday, February 15, 2010 2:39 PM
> To: "WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com"
> Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] MPG Reality Check
>
>
>
>
>
> Bob, I don't dispute your method or your finding at all. My only comment
> is, that mileage seems too low. I would expect that your mileage would be
> closer to 8mg. But, that's only based on other folks bragging including my
> own,that I have observed.
>
>
>
> Steve (at Painted Rocks campground). Temp 80 degrees with absolute clear
> blue skies.
>
>
>
> In a message dated 2/12/2010 12:22:01 P.M. Pacific Standard Time,
> sundance101@... writes:
>
>
>
> Finally, after 7 years, I filled the fuel tank to the top, drove 1015 miles,
> and filled it again. The 167 gallons calculates to about 6 MPG.
>
> The method has plenty of potential for error. The odometer reads low and I
> don't have a GPS. I used the Google mileage plus 5% to account for wrong
> turns, finding RV sites, etc. The route was Brookings, OR to Q by way of Hwy
> 101 and Malibu, CA.
>
> The tank is so big that I figure the fill could be off by as much as 10%. If
> the fill-up were 10% low, the MPG would have been 6.7. If the fill-up were
> 10% high, the MPG would have been about 5.5.
>
> Other details: 1984 FC31 with California 210HP turbo 3208. Road speed about
> 58 MPH. 4.89 gears. 11R22.5 Michelins at 105 and 95 PSI. Towing a Honda CRV.
> Air filter has about 5000 miles. The air intake is the enlarged version
> designed for the 250HP turbo engine. Never blows any black unless I make an
> operator error.
>
> To achieve the 10 MPG sometimes suggested for the FC, my mileage estimate
> would need to be off by almost 700 miles, or the fill-up would need to be
> off by almost 70 gallons.
>
> I'd be interested any anyone else's MPG observations and the method used.
>
> Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA
>

[Chuck Wheeler]

I agree with you Al.  As I said I only
track mileage to watch out for issues.  Most of our travel is in the winter
months and does not require the generator for heat.  I keep the weight down
because we are off paved roads a lot of the time.  I don’t have the power
to hold 70 so that is not an issue.

- Chuck
Wheeler-

1982 FC 31SB Fort Worth TX

---

From: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com [mailto:WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Al Scudder

Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2010
9:24 AM

To:
wanderlodgeforum@yahoogroups.com

Subject: RE: [WanderlodgeForum]
Re: MPG Reality Check

You folks
are way toooo cridical offinding or formulating of the MPG.



On flat roads I get 6.5 on hills I get 5.8. The engine is a Cummins M11 450. I
fill up when it is convienent not when I need it. You can never use the fuel
that you left at the pump. My boating days and 4 years in the USCG taught me
that and a my old sage friend that is a pilot taught me these things.



I never worry about the MPG because to me it means to me I Mostly Prefer Going where I want to go. Since the diference to my 2000 LX
is 0.7 miles which is 105 more miles at a usaable rate of 80% of the tank
(175) I ALWAYS plan trips on 5 MPH.



Since I do like the comforts of
home and the safety of my gastromic supply of food we always run with heat in
the cold, cold in the heat and the referer cold all the time. My genny runs
when the the coach is going down the road or sitting in the rest
area.Cruise speed is what the traffic will bear. You want to cruise at 70
I'm with you want a earlier ETA I'm there on time.



When we purchased our BB my goal was to have fun and run. I always have fun and
the run, will go when ever there is and sometimes not, a excuse to do it.



Scooter 2000LX Ocqueoc, MI

---

To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com

From: sundance101@comcast.net

Date: Tue, 16 Feb 2010 02:09:21 +0000

Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: MPG Reality Check

Chuck - Thanks for those
observations. The fuel in this case was pumped in Brookings, Oregon
and the route was from there to Q.



If our California
turbo really makes more power than the 210 NA, it surely does get used when
climbing the very frequent west coast hills. More power is more fuel.



The genset in this FC31 is gas, so genset operation does not affect the diesel
tank.



I'm sure the setup is unique to the California
motor. For example, the torque is more than a 225T even though the HP is less.
Cat has a manual with all the details but I haven't purchased it yet.



The posts to this thread are much appreciated. I intend to buy a GPS and start
keeping better track of miles and gallons. As Chuck says, tracking fuel
consumption is one way to monitor engine condition.



Meanwhile, sitting here in the Arizona
desert soaking up sun uses zero diesel fuel! )



Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA



--- In "WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com",
"Chuck Wheeler" .> wrote:

>

> Several things could be affecting Bob's mileage.

>

> 1. He is towing.

>

> 2. I don't know where he is in WA, but there is a lot of it that is more

> like mountain running. I can run 800 miles and not change over 600ft

> elevation.

>

> 3. Do they pump a "winter blend" of diesel in WA? My mileage in
the truck

> has always been lower on "Winter Blend"

>

> 3. He has more power than I do and when the power is there we tend to use

> it. My cousin followed us on a trip with his Monaco and he gained almost

> 2mpg driving the way we have to. (He said it wasn't worth it!)

>

> 4. We do a lot of winter traveling and so it is not necessary to run the

> generator.

>

> 5. I believe that a "California"
engine runs with different injection timing

> and advance curve.

>

> 6. I usually run with Gray and black water tanks empty, about ¼ tanks of

> fresh water and on the bottom half of the fuel capacity to keep my weight

> down. That's why I have to compute mpg over a many miles to get an idea of

> what milage I am getting.

>

>

>

> I track milage mainly to keep an idea of how the bus is running.

>

>

>

> - Chuck Wheeler-

>

> 1982 FC 31SB Fort Worth
TX

>

> _____

>

> From: "WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com"

> [mailto:"WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com"]
On Behalf Of ebirder2000@...

> Sent: Monday, February 15, 2010 2:39 PM

> To: "WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com"

> Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] MPG Reality Check

>

>

>

>

>

> Bob, I don't dispute your method or your finding at all. My only comment

> is, that mileage seems too low. I would expect that your mileage would be

> closer to 8mg. But, that's only based on other folks bragging including my

> own,that I have observed.

>

>

>

> Steve (at Painted Rocks campground). Temp 80 degrees with absolute clear

> blue skies.

>

>

>

> In a message dated 2/12/2010 12:22:01 P.M. Pacific Standard Time,

> sundance101@... writes:

>

>

>

> Finally, after 7 years, I filled the fuel tank to the top, drove 1015
miles,

> and filled it again. The 167 gallons calculates to about 6 MPG.

>

> The method has plenty of potential for error. The odometer reads low and I

> don't have a GPS. I used the Google mileage plus 5% to account for wrong

> turns, finding RV sites, etc. The route was Brookings, OR
to Q by way of Hwy

> 101 and Malibu, CA.

>

> The tank is so big that I figure the fill could be off by as much as 10%.
If

> the fill-up were 10% low, the MPG would have been 6.7. If the fill-up were

> 10% high, the MPG would have been about 5.5.

>

> Other details: 1984 FC31 with California
210HP turbo 3208. Road speed about

> 58 MPH. 4.89 gears. 11R22.5 Michelins at 105 and 95 PSI. Towing a Honda
CRV.

> Air filter has about 5000 miles. The air intake is the enlarged version

> designed for the 250HP turbo engine. Never blows any black unless I make
an

> operator error.

>

> To achieve the 10 MPG sometimes suggested for the FC, my mileage estimate

> would need to be off by almost 700 miles, or the fill-up would need to be

> off by almost 70 gallons.

>

> I'd be interested any anyone else's MPG observations and the method used.

>

> Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA

>

[bubblerboy64]

I interpret what Al is saying is that he can afford "it" and so he doesn't worry
about mpg. He has a point. Certainly, worry isn't going to get a fellow any
better fuel economy. That being said there are folks who have to consider each
and ever trip and the costs involved, it's a fact of life. How many of us are
on what side of this bell curve I have no idea but I would guess there are
darned few who wouldn't appreciate an improvement of one or even a half a mpg.
I know I would. So this discussion seems relevant to me.

While shopping for bus I ask a PO what the fuel usage was. His comment was if
you have to ask you can't afford it. You know I didn't buy that bus, and I am
not too certain that comment wasn't the biggest reason.

I am only making an assumption of what Al meant by his comments. And I take no
offense either. It is what it is for each of us. I am not without but I must
admit that filling the tank causes me to wince. Some would wince regardless of
their financial circumstances. Some of the wealthiest people I know would
complain the loudest. And on the other hand I wonder some times how I will
finance this as time goes on. For the time being I am with Al enjoy it because
time is what is most fleeting. I am grateful that I can "play" and pay to play
but I also do not take a bit of this as a given.

Not sure that I added a thing to this conversation but I had to comment.

--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Chuck Wheeler" wrote:
>
> I agree with you Al. As I said I only track mileage to watch out for
> issues. Most of our travel is in the winter months and does not require the
> generator for heat. I keep the weight down because we are off paved roads a
> lot of the time. I don't have the power to hold 70 so that is not an issue.
>
>
>
> - Chuck Wheeler-
>
> 1982 FC 31SB Fort Worth TX
>
> _____
>
> From: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Al Scudder
> Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2010 9:24 AM
> To: wanderlodgeforum@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: RE: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: MPG Reality Check
>
>
>
>
>
> You folks are way toooo cridical of finding or formulating of the MPG.
>
> On flat roads I get 6.5 on hills I get 5.8. The engine is a Cummins M11 450.
> I fill up when it is convienent not when I need it. You can never use the
> fuel that you left at the pump. My boating days and 4 years in the USCG
> taught me that and a my old sage friend that is a pilot taught me these
> things.
>
> I never worry about the MPG because to me it means to me I Mostly Prefer
> Going where I want to go. Since the diference to my 2000 LX is 0.7 miles
> which is 105 more miles at a usaable rate of 80% of the tank (175) I ALWAYS
> plan trips on 5 MPH.
>
> Since I do like the comforts of home and the safety of my gastromic supply
> of food we always run with heat in the cold, cold in the heat and the
> referer cold all the time. My genny runs when the the coach is going down
> the road or sitting in the rest area. Cruise speed is what the traffic will
> bear. You want to cruise at 70 I'm with you want a earlier ETA I'm there on
> time.
>
> When we purchased our BB my goal was to have fun and run. I always have fun
> and the run, will go when ever there is and sometimes not, a excuse to do
> it.
>
> Scooter 2000LX Ocqueoc, MI
>
>
>
>
> _____
>
> To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
> From: sundance101@...
> Date: Tue, 16 Feb 2010 02:09:21 +0000
> Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: MPG Reality Check
>
>
>
> Chuck - Thanks for those observations. The fuel in this case was pumped in
> Brookings, Oregon and the route was from there to Q.
>
> If our California turbo really makes more power than the 210 NA, it surely
> does get used when climbing the very frequent west coast hills. More power
> is more fuel.
>
> The genset in this FC31 is gas, so genset operation does not affect the
> diesel tank.
>
> I'm sure the setup is unique to the California motor. For example, the
> torque is more than a 225T even though the HP is less. Cat has a manual with
> all the details but I haven't purchased it yet.
>
> The posts to this thread are much appreciated. I intend to buy a GPS and
> start keeping better track of miles and gallons. As Chuck says, tracking
> fuel consumption is one way to monitor engine condition.
>
> Meanwhile, sitting here in the Arizona desert soaking up sun uses zero
> diesel fuel! )
>
> Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA
>
> --- In WanderlodgeForum@
> yahoogroups.com, "Chuck Wheeler" wrote:
> >
> > Several things could be affecting Bob's mileage.
> >
> > 1. He is towing.
> >
> > 2. I don't know where he is in WA, but there is a lot of it that is more
> > like mountain running. I can run 800 miles and not change over 600ft
> > elevation.
> >
> > 3. Do they pump a "winter blend" of diesel in WA? My mileage in the truck
> > has always been lower on "Winter Blend"
> >
> > 3. He has more power than I do and when the power is there we tend to use
> > it. My cousin followed us on a trip with his Monaco and he gained almost
> > 2mpg driving the way we have to. (He said it wasn't worth it!)
> >
> > 4. We do a lot of winter traveling and so it is not necessary to run the
> > generator.
> >
> > 5. I believe that a "California" engine runs with different injection
> timing
> > and advance curve.
> >
> > 6. I usually run with Gray and black water tanks empty, about ¼ tanks of
> > fresh water and on the bottom half of the fuel capacity to keep my weight
> > down. That's why I have to compute mpg over a many miles to get an idea of
> > what milage I am getting.
> >
> >
> >
> > I track milage mainly to keep an idea of how the bus is running.
> >
> >
> >
> > - Chuck Wheeler-
> >
> > 1982 FC 31SB Fort Worth TX
> >
> > _____
> >
> > From: WanderlodgeForum@
> yahoogroups.com
> > [mailto:WanderlodgeForum@
> yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of ebirder2000@
> > Sent: Monday, February 15, 2010 2:39 PM
> > To: WanderlodgeForum@
> yahoogroups.com
> > Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] MPG Reality Check
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > Bob, I don't dispute your method or your finding at all. My only comment
> > is, that mileage seems too low. I would expect that your mileage would be
> > closer to 8mg. But, that's only based on other folks bragging including my
> > own,that I have observed.
> >
> >
> >
> > Steve (at Painted Rocks campground). Temp 80 degrees with absolute clear
> > blue skies.
> >
> >
> >
> > In a message dated 2/12/2010 12:22:01 P.M. Pacific Standard Time,
> > sundance101@ writes:
> >
> >
> >
> > Finally, after 7 years, I filled the fuel tank to the top, drove 1015
> miles,
> > and filled it again. The 167 gallons calculates to about 6 MPG.
> >
> > The method has plenty of potential for error. The odometer reads low and I
> > don't have a GPS. I used the Google mileage plus 5% to account for wrong
> > turns, finding RV sites, etc. The route was Brookings, OR to Q by way of
> Hwy
> > 101 and Malibu, CA.
> >
> > The tank is so big that I figure the fill could be off by as much as 10%.
> If
> > the fill-up were 10% low, the MPG would have been 6.7. If the fill-up were
> > 10% high, the MPG would have been about 5.5.
> >
> > Other details: 1984 FC31 with California 210HP turbo 3208. Road speed
> about
> > 58 MPH. 4.89 gears. 11R22.5 Michelins at 105 and 95 PSI. Towing a Honda
> CRV.
> > Air filter has about 5000 miles. The air intake is the enlarged version
> > designed for the 250HP turbo engine. Never blows any black unless I make
> an
> > operator error.
> >
> > To achieve the 10 MPG sometimes suggested for the FC, my mileage estimate
> > would need to be off by almost 700 miles, or the fill-up would need to be
> > off by almost 70 gallons.
> >
> > I'd be interested any anyone else's MPG observations and the method used.
> >
> > Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA
> >
>

[Wayne Kotila]

Well put Al.

Wayne

96 WB 42

---

From: Al Scudder
To: wanderlodgeforum@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Tue, February 16, 2010 9:23:34 AM
Subject: RE: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: MPG Reality Check

You folks are way toooo cridical offinding or formulating of the MPG.

On flat roads I get 6.5 on hills I get 5.8. The engine is a Cummins M11 450. I fill up when it is convienent not when I need it. You can never use the fuel that you left at the pump. My boating days and 4 years in the USCG taught me that and a my old sage friend that is a pilot taught me these things.

I never worry about the MPG because to me it means to me I Mostly Prefer Going where I want to go. Since the diference to my 2000 LX is 0.7 miles which is 105 more miles at a usaable rate of 80% of the tank (175) I ALWAYS plan trips on 5 MPH.

Since I do like the comforts of home and the safety of my gastromic supply of food we always run with heat in the cold, cold in the heat and the referer cold all the time. My genny runs when the
the coach is going down the road or sitting in the rest area.Cruise speed is what the traffic will bear. You want to cruise at 70 I'm with you want a earlier ETA I'm there on time.

When we purchased our BB my goal was to have fun and run. I always have fun and the run, will go when ever there is and sometimes not, a excuse to do it.

Scooter 2000LX Ocqueoc, MI

---

To: WanderlodgeForum@ yahoogroups. com
From: sundance101@ comcast.net
Date: Tue, 16 Feb 2010 02:09:21 +0000
Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: MPG Reality Check

Chuck - Thanks for those observations. The fuel in this case was pumped in Brookings, Oregon and the route was from there to Q.

If our California turbo really makes more power than the 210 NA, it surely does get used when climbing the very frequent west coast hills. More power is more fuel.

The genset in this FC31 is gas, so genset operation does not affect the diesel tank.

I'm sure the setup is unique to the California motor. For example, the torque is more than a 225T even though the HP is less. Cat has a manual with all the details but I haven't purchased it yet.

The posts to this thread are much appreciated. I intend to buy a GPS and start keeping better track of miles and gallons. As Chuck says, tracking fuel consumption is one way to monitor engine condition.

Meanwhile, sitting here in the Arizona desert soaking up sun uses zero diesel fuel! )

Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA

---
In "WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com", "Chuck Wheeler" wrote:
>
> Several things could be affecting Bob's mileage.
>
> 1. He is towing.
>
> 2. I don't know where he is in WA, but there is a lot of it that is more
> like mountain running. I can run 800 miles and not change over 600ft
> elevation.
>
> 3. Do they pump a "winter blend" of diesel in WA? My mileage in the truck
> has always been lower on "Winter Blend"
>
> 3. He has more power than I do and when the power is there we tend to use
> it. My cousin followed us on a trip with his Monaco and he gained almost
> 2mpg driving the way we have to. (He said it wasn't worth it!)
>
> 4. We do a lot of winter traveling and so it is not necessary to run
the
> generator.
>
> 5. I believe that a "California" engine runs with different injection timing
> and advance curve.
>
> 6. I usually run with Gray and black water tanks empty, about ¼ tanks of
> fresh water and on the bottom half of the fuel capacity to keep my weight
> down. That's why I have to compute mpg over a many miles to get an idea of
> what milage I am getting.
>
>
>
> I track milage mainly to keep an idea of how the bus is running.
>
>
>
> - Chuck Wheeler-
>
> 1982 FC 31SB Fort Worth TX
>
> _____
>
> From: "WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com"
> [mailto:"WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com"] On Behalf Of ebirder2000@ ...
> Sent: Monday, February 15, 2010 2:39 PM
> To: "WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com"
> Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] MPG Reality Check
>
>
>
>
>
> Bob, I don't dispute your method or your finding at all. My only comment
> is, that mileage seems too low. I would expect that your mileage would be
> closer to 8mg. But, that's only based on other folks bragging including my
> own,that I have observed.
>
>
>
> Steve (at Painted Rocks campground). Temp 80 degrees with absolute clear
> blue skies.
>
>
>
> In a message dated 2/12/2010 12:22:01 P.M. Pacific Standard Time,
>
sundance101@ ... writes:
>
>
>
> Finally, after 7 years, I filled the fuel tank to the top, drove 1015 miles,
> and filled it again. The 167 gallons calculates to about 6 MPG.
>
> The method has plenty of potential for error. The odometer reads low and I
> don't have a GPS. I used the Google mileage plus 5% to account for wrong
> turns, finding RV sites, etc. The route was Brookings, OR to Q by way of Hwy
> 101 and Malibu, CA.
>
> The tank is so big that I figure the fill could be off by as much as 10%. If
> the fill-up were 10% low, the MPG would have been 6.7. If the fill-up were
> 10% high, the MPG would have been about 5.5.
>
> Other details: 1984 FC31 with California 210HP turbo 3208. Road speed about
> 58 MPH. 4.89 gears. 11R22.5 Michelins at 105 and 95 PSI. Towing a Honda CRV.
> Air filter has about 5000 miles. The air intake is the
enlarged version
> designed for the 250HP turbo engine. Never blows any black unless I make an
> operator error.
>
> To achieve the 10 MPG sometimes suggested for the FC, my mileage estimate
> would need to be off by almost 700 miles, or the fill-up would need to be
> off by almost 70 gallons.
>
> I'd be interested any anyone else's MPG observations and the method used.
>
> Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA
>

[Al Scudder]

I care, don't get me wrong.



If I look at this in mathematical way ( my wife just hates it when I say that) If I were to say, gain a half a mile from 6 to 6.5 at 140 gallons ( 80% of tankage) I gain 70 miles on the tank it gives me less than 11 gallonsof fuel extra @2.75 per gal that comes out to $29.15. Yes it is a savings but then on a long trip I am also 70 miles further down the road. If I am on a 3 day trip to destination I will be 1 day ahead of the game and out the $58.30 which is what 1 1/4 campsite?



Trust me I look as you do on what a trip will take in expenses. My first trip to RITV was 2600 miles, 433 gals @ 3.25, $1,407.25 in fuel. That's a big swallow. $500.00 for entry fee, $300.00 for crap at the vendors, $500.00 misc stuff on the road and around Perry, A whopping $2,700 bucks for a short trip to see people and things I might not even like..........It was worth every penny that we spent. We visited withanother coach that we had met in Ohio the year before and we have turned that relationship to a great relationship. We enjoyed talking to people like your self and have never been happier with our time spent...I can not and will nottrade the enjoyment that I have had with our Bird.



In any case we should always try to save our selves some bucks in anyway we can but remember theONLY thing that we can not buy is time. Time in some way is the most precious thing there is to us.



To save dollars we all could have purchased a 1976 Winnebago Chieftain and bought Chevy big blocks by the trailer full to keep up and you would have had the same mileage that you have in your BEEEEEutyyyyfull BB LOL!!!!!



See Ya!!!

Scooter 2000LX Ocqueoc, MI

---

To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
From: jehdds@...
Date: Tue, 16 Feb 2010 20:39:49 +0000
Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: MPG Reality Check

I interpret what Al is saying is that he can afford "it" and so he doesn't worry about mpg. He has a point. Certainly, worry isn't going to get a fellow any better fuel economy. That being said there are folks who have to consider each and ever trip and the costs involved, it's a fact of life. How many of us are on what side of this bell curve I have no idea but I would guess there are darned few who wouldn't appreciate an improvement of one or even a half a mpg. I know I would. So this discussion seems relevant to me.

While shopping for bus I ask a PO what the fuel usage was. His comment was if you have to ask you can't afford it. You know I didn't buy that bus, and I am not too certain that comment wasn't the biggest reason.

I am only making an assumption of what Al meant by his comments. And I take no offense either. It is what it is for each of us. I am not without but I must admit that filling the tank causes me to wince. Some would wince regardless of their financial circumstances. Some of the wealthiest people I know would complain the loudest. And on the other hand I wonder some times how I will finance this as time goes on. For the time being I am with Al enjoy it because time is what is most fleeting. I am grateful that I can "play" and pay to play but I also do not take a bit of this as a given.

Not sure that I added a thing to this conversation but I had to comment.

--- In "WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com", "Chuck Wheeler" .> wrote:
>
> I agree with you Al. As I said I only track mileage to watch out for
> issues. Most of our travel is in the winter months and does not require the
> generator for heat. I keep the weight down because we are off paved roads a
> lot of the time. I don't have the power to hold 70 so that is not an issue.
>
>
>
> - Chuck Wheeler-
>
> 1982 FC 31SB Fort Worth TX
>
> _____
>
> From: "WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com"
> [mailto:"WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com"] On Behalf Of Al Scudder
> Sent: Tuesday, February 16, 2010 9:24 AM
> To: "wanderlodgeforum@yahoogroups.com"
> Subject: RE: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: MPG Reality Check
>
>
>
>
>
> You folks are way toooo cridical of finding or formulating of the MPG.
>
> On flat roads I get 6.5 on hills I get 5.8. The engine is a Cummins M11 450.
> I fill up when it is convienent not when I need it. You can never use the
> fuel that you left at the pump. My boating days and 4 years in the USCG
> taught me that and a my old sage friend that is a pilot taught me these
> things.
>
> I never worry about the MPG because to me it means to me I Mostly Prefer
> Going where I want to go. Since the diference to my 2000 LX is 0.7 miles
> which is 105 more miles at a usaable rate of 80% of the tank (175) I ALWAYS
> plan trips on 5 MPH.
>
> Since I do like the comforts of home and the safety of my gastromic supply
> of food we always run with heat in the cold, cold in the heat and the
> referer cold all the time. My genny runs when the the coach is going down
> the road or sitting in the rest area. Cruise speed is what the traffic will
> bear. You want to cruise at 70 I'm with you want a earlier ETA I'm there on
> time.
>
> When we purchased our BB my goal was to have fun and run. I always have fun
> and the run, will go when ever there is and sometimes not, a excuse to do
> it.
>
> Scooter 2000LX Ocqueoc, MI
>
>
>
>
> _____
>
> To: "WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com"
> From: sundance101@...
> Date: Tue, 16 Feb 2010 02:09:21 +0000
> Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: MPG Reality Check
>
>
>
> Chuck - Thanks for those observations. The fuel in this case was pumped in
> Brookings, Oregon and the route was from there to Q.
>
> If our California turbo really makes more power than the 210 NA, it surely
> does get used when climbing the very frequent west coast hills. More power
> is more fuel.
>
> The genset in this FC31 is gas, so genset operation does not affect the
> diesel tank.
>
> I'm sure the setup is unique to the California motor. For example, the
> torque is more than a 225T even though the HP is less. Cat has a manual with
> all the details but I haven't purchased it yet.
>
> The posts to this thread are much appreciated. I intend to buy a GPS and
> start keeping better track of miles and gallons. As Chuck says, tracking
> fuel consumption is one way to monitor engine condition.
>
> Meanwhile, sitting here in the Arizona desert soaking up sun uses zero
> diesel fuel! )
>
> Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA
>
> --- In WanderlodgeForum@
> yahoogroups.com, "Chuck Wheeler" wrote:
> >
> > Several things could be affecting Bob's mileage.
> >
> > 1. He is towing.
> >
> > 2. I don't know where he is in WA, but there is a lot of it that is more
> > like mountain running. I can run 800 miles and not change over 600ft
> > elevation.
> >
> > 3. Do they pump a "winter blend" of diesel in WA? My mileage in the truck
> > has always been lower on "Winter Blend"
> >
> > 3. He has more power than I do and when the power is there we tend to use
> > it. My cousin followed us on a trip with his Monaco and he gained almost
> > 2mpg driving the way we have to. (He said it wasn't worth it!)
> >
> > 4. We do a lot of winter traveling and so it is not necessary to run the
> > generator.
> >
> > 5. I believe that a "California" engine runs with different injection
> timing
> > and advance curve.
> >
> > 6. I usually run with Gray and black water tanks empty, about ¼ tanks of
> > fresh water and on the bottom half of the fuel capacity to keep my weight
> > down. That's why I have to compute mpg over a many miles to get an idea of
> > what milage I am getting.
> >
> >
> >
> > I track milage mainly to keep an idea of how the bus is running.
> >
> >
> >
> > - Chuck Wheeler-
> >
> > 1982 FC 31SB Fort Worth TX
> >
> > _____
> >
> > From: WanderlodgeForum@
> yahoogroups.com
> > [mailto:WanderlodgeForum@
> yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of ebirder2000@
> > Sent: Monday, February 15, 2010 2:39 PM
> > To: WanderlodgeForum@
> yahoogroups.com
> > Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] MPG Reality Check
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > Bob, I don't dispute your method or your finding at all. My only comment
> > is, that mileage seems too low. I would expect that your mileage would be
> > closer to 8mg. But, that's only based on other folks bragging including my
> > own,that I have observed.
> >
> >
> >
> > Steve (at Painted Rocks campground). Temp 80 degrees with absolute clear
> > blue skies.
> >
> >
> >
> > In a message dated 2/12/2010 12:22:01 P.M. Pacific Standard Time,
> > sundance101@ writes:
> >
> >
> >
> > Finally, after 7 years, I filled the fuel tank to the top, drove 1015
> miles,
> > and filled it again. The 167 gallons calculates to about 6 MPG.
> >
> > The method has plenty of potential for error. The odometer reads low and I
> > don't have a GPS. I used the Google mileage plus 5% to account for wrong
> > turns, finding RV sites, etc. The route was Brookings, OR to Q by way of
> Hwy
> > 101 and Malibu, CA.
> >
> > The tank is so big that I figure the fill could be off by as much as 10%.
> If
> > the fill-up were 10% low, the MPG would have been 6.7. If the fill-up were
> > 10% high, the MPG would have been about 5.5.
> >
> > Other details: 1984 FC31 with California 210HP turbo 3208. Road speed
> about
> > 58 MPH. 4.89 gears. 11R22.5 Michelins at 105 and 95 PSI. Towing a Honda
> CRV.
> > Air filter has about 5000 miles. The air intake is the enlarged version
> > designed for the 250HP turbo engine. Never blows any black unless I make
> an
> > operator error.
> >
> > To achieve the 10 MPG sometimes suggested for the FC, my mileage estimate
> > would need to be off by almost 700 miles, or the fill-up would need to be
> > off by almost 70 gallons.
> >
> > I'd be interested any anyone else's MPG observations and the method used.
> >
> > Bob Griesel '84 FC31 WLII WA
> >
>