While the idea of tuning specifically for mileage isn't new, I'm curious about it.

Why couldn't a program be set up to "detune" to much lower power levels with the goal of much increased mileage? It obviously isn't practical, or somebody long before me would have made it work.

For example, on long cruises empty, I by no means need 350-400 HP. But since I'm not actually using all the power I have available, would a low-power tune really increase mileage at all?

Please set me straight if you can!

that kind of sounds like going back to stock to make a road trip.

I can't speak specifically to pickups, but I was reviewing tractor data on fuel consumption before buying one last fall. The data I looked at from the Nebraska Tractor Tests (very well respected) basically showed that the different horsepower tractors used about the the same amount of fuel for a given task. For example, a 100 HP tractor and a 150 HP tractor would use about the same amount of fuel for 100 HP worth of work. I hope this makes sense.

:confused:

PPE makes a box called the "Duraminimizer," which decreases the stock numbers. What I've read about it indicates that it's main purpose is to avoid excessive driver wear and tear on fleet trucks and also to decrease emissions. I suppose it may increase economy when running empty, as long as most of the miles were highway at a steady speed. On the other hand, you are not using all of your engine power when running empty at posted highway speed limits. I know I'm satisfied with 20+ mpg for my truck that weighs almost 3½ tons.