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In the automotive world, there aren’t a lot of things that are more distinctly American than the diesel truck. Prized for its versatility, looks, and raw power, the diesel truck is a true cultural icon that has stood the test of time. 

For all its merits, diesel engines are also known to be fuel guzzlers—which makes sense, given its size and the hauling power that it typically needs. With the price of diesel going up with each passing day, however, a driver needs all the help that one can get to make the most of every drop of fuel in the tank. 

Here are four areas that you can improve to help increase the fuel mileage of your diesel truck. 

Intakes and Filters 

If you’ve been driving for a significant period of time, you’re probably already aware that your intake system is responsible for allowing air to reach your car engine. This process is incredibly crucial for the proper combustion of fuel to propel your truck to movement. 

One modification that you can do to increase your truck’s fuel efficiency is by swapping your stock intakes and filters for a cold intake system. Through it, the temperature of the air that it feeds to your engine is better regulated—helping ease your fuel usage. This happens because cold air allows for a more efficient fuel burn due to its increased mass. Another small but significant modification to your intake is by using performance air filters, which are durable, washable, and actually enhance airflow better than stock OEM filters. 

Exhaust Systems 

Just like how an inefficient intake can force your engine to work harder than it should, a poorly working exhaust system can also hold your diesel engine back. While stock exhaust systems do get the job done, their narrow surface areas are causing your engine to exert more energy into expelling the waste gases out. You can help lessen the load on your engine by installing a larger diameter exhaust system with a smooth mandrel bent radius that will help improve fuel efficiency. 

Diesel Performance Chips

One of the more popular ways and easy-to-do modifications are installing performance chips. These chips work by modifying your engine’s behavior in ways that can alter its performance—provided that your truck is compatible with them. 

A good example of this is the edge chip for Dodge Cummins, which is a tuner chip that provides better fuel economy, sharper throttle response, and higher torque for Dodge’s line of Cummins pickup trucks. While it can seem counterintuitive, more power in your engine doesn’t usually translate to more fuel consumption. Most of the time, it’s the result of your engines being able to do their job freely without being encumbered by inefficient parts. 

Differential Gear Upgrade

Some of the most common modifications for pickup trucks are lifted rigs and oversized tires, which are usually strenuous on your differential gear. You will know that your truck’s differential gear needs an upgrade if your truck feels sluggish on cruising speeds, and if your RPM feels a little too high for your speed. If the RPMs are too high, it’s a good idea to raise or lower your drivetrain gear ratio. 

Conclusion 

With the price of diesel fuel quickly catching up to gasoline, it’s important to ensure that you’re making the most out of your fuel. You can do this by investing in higher performance parts that will keep your engine from working harder than it needs to be. Upgrading your parts will result in better fuel economy, as engines that are not held back by inefficient parts will also be able to produce more power. 

We offer the biggest selection of parts for your diesel engine trucks. We carry everything from 2003 dodge diesel engines to LLY Duramax injector o-ring. Contact us today to know more.