New 7.3 owner- RPM question

[Corky]

Hi all,
Great web site. Did a bit of surfing here and answered most of my questions.
I have a 1996 Ford E350, 7.3 Ppower stroke turbo, 266K, 4 spd auto, Dana w/3.55-1 ratio.
I have searched Ford and IH sites.
Would like to find factory suggested RPM range for crusing/mileage and
best working RPM range for this engine/trans/ and rear end gearing.
thanks in advace.

Corky

[ABOBB]

Welcome to Powerstroke.org

Someone else may have a better answer but here's my shot at it. Your best mileage will be acheive when you are able to keep you tach at or around 1800 rpms. This will keep your boost low, while allowing decent highway speeds.

[gbear]

My best mileage is seems to be when I run between 1900-2000 rpm. But then I also have 410 gears. I can't run the freeway at much lower rpms.

Jim

about 2000rpms at 71mph with mine and i have 3.73s so you sould be good to go. Run her about 2000rpms.

[fordnut85]

Right around 2000-2200 is where the miliage "sweet spot" is in mine

[sldghamr]

i have a 96er also.
boost = 5psi
mph = 65
gear = 4.10
rpm = 2k
egt = 680 - 700 degrees
tranny = 4 spd auto/4x4
on the freeway i hit about 16.5 - 17 mpg's
i have the ext cab/ Long bed as well

i hope this helps.

[95PDXLT]

well hopefully my mileage will get better then. My 95 has 3.55's auto 4x4 and running around 1500-1700rpm i got 13mpg. Mixed city and hwy. Around 2000 is the sweet spot. I was thinking the higher rpm the more fuel would be used.
I'll have to try this as since i have owned it i try to keep it less then 2000 rpm. Seems much over 2000 you can really hear the turbo whistle.

[pipelayerjdh]

Engines are usually most efficient at peak torque, which is just over 2000. The engine has to work harder below and above that. If you accelerate slowly it will help.

[95PDXLT]

i tried it @ 2000 rpm in o/d. With the 3.55's and stock tires its going 72mph. Most of the roads i travel are 55mph. Tried it in drive and its going 50mph at 2000 rpm. Roads are bumpy so looks like the o/d will stay off.