Gas Mileage Question
 

I have had Lucy (94 SE) for about 3 years and 40,000 Miles now. She is at a grand total of 85,000. When I first got her I could push it a little and get 360 miles off a tank, Normally 340 - 350. This is mostly Highway/Interstate driving... She is basically my work car and we have about a 17-mile trip across the interstate to work. Right now we are down to an average of 280-290 Miles per tank. I plan to try some of the STP Fuel System Cleaner, but other than that, and barring a tune-up I can't really afford does anyone have any suggestions to goose my mileage a little? I will freely admit that I drive a LITTLE lead footed, averaging 65 Mph on the Highway and 75 Mph on the interstate. I guess I could get my Lazy A$$ out of bed earlier enough to not have to push it but that would be a lot harder ;) I am curious what other people get in the way of mileage, and whether what I am getting is close to "the norm" or not. I am really enjoying the forums and learning a lot and have so many things I want to try when I get the time and or money :)
Styx

I believe it's time for you to replace your O2 sensor. Also a complete tune-up(plugs, air filter, gas filter, pcv) couldn't hurt. I would also change the trans fluid at this time too if it hasn't been done in awhile. You should be back to 360 miles/tank in no time!!! Others can offer their suggestions too.

I have a similar trip and get 320-340 miles to a tank with 103800 miles on my 95 SE I use premium only no lower than 91 octane in her, and that was before any upgrades or the recent tune up.

Oh I also drive between 65 and 85mph depending on traffic (I fallow now learned the hard way not to lead) :twisted: Actually on a trip to the WisDells I got 411 miles on a tank :banana: and the check gauge light had not come on yet.

Complete tune up and new 02 sensor like was already mentioned, and open up the air intake some if at all possible, and the exhaust too. A smoother, cleaner, more efficient running engine is going to get better gas mileage, so if the engine can breathe easier it will get better gas mileage.

Oh I almost forgot check your air filter thats a fairly inexpensive tune up that can restore gas millage.

now being cheap as I have mentioned (not so much cheap as broke) would it be better to get an drop in K&N and gut the airbox or really try to convince myself and the wife I need a nice shiny new intake?

That depends on what kind of intake you get. If you get a filter that is exposed to the engine bay at all it isn't going to help at all. A drop in K&N and a gutted airbox is very effective, otherwise you will need a cold air box that is insulated and sealed off from hot underhood air.