MPGs

Hey guys,
I am new with this so bare with me. I currently own a 1964 chevy C-10(long bed stepside). I believe its the original 230 engine though I think its been changed to a four speed with that granny gear other then that its stock.
This maybe a step in a different direction, from the performance side of life to the efficient side of things, but the love for six is much the same.
I currently get around 15-16 mpg highway, and i am wondering what possible combination are out there to get better mileage. I am willing to change the engine diffs, trannies anything as long as it remains a six. I figured you guys would know best.
Thank you for your time
Riley

 

Don't forget to Read This First! then do an intro.


But the big things that will help are either rear end gears or a 5 speed with overdrive. A good tune with a strong ignition will help as well.

 

With my experience of aerodynamics or lack there of, you are doing very good to squeak that kind of mileage without overdrive. With a pretty good idea of how that truck is spec'd rearend gear wise, taller (numerically smaller) gears will probably lug the small cid engine and cause lower fuel mileage with the expense of having to buy a ring and pinion set and a diff carrier for the taller ratio gear.
I have a 65 short step with a 350/TH350/3.08 gear. I have only put 300k miles on my combo. Long distance hwy mileage will usually yield 13.5 mpg unless you get a long term draft from a big truck. This is also with a homemade "air tailgate" made from 1 1/2" square tubing.

 

yup, that's good mileage for an old truck.