86 GV 454 Chevy Gas Mileage
We have just returned from a 2000 mile round trip holiday journey to the Hill Country of Texas.. first time we were able to get an accurate reading of our gas mileage based on speed and RPM's.... at 68-70 mph ( 3100 rpm) just a 6mpg... but at 64-66mph ( 2800-3000 rpm) we bumped up to 7.5... what a difference.. no tow vehicle. Just half tank of fresh water on board for the 18 hours each way from Boulder CO to nearby Fredericksburg TX.
Lost an alternator and a battery on this trip. The Ford pick up external regulator for the original equipment alternator ( 1971 Chevy) overheated one of the 4 connections and failed... and let the alternator speed and lock up the bearings... stuck in Winters Texas on Sunday evening at truck stop. monday 7am CarQuest autoparts and nearby truck and auto shop came to our rescue and replaced on site.... a few hours after breakfast and on our way home.... replaced with the upgraded ONE wire alternator and by passed the old regulator .. replaced the now dead Interstate battery and all good for the remaining 13 hours home to Boulder.