Fuel Mileage?

[Duramaster]

Ok, I have a customer that has a C-5500, 2006. He is complaining that he is only getting 10 MPG at all times. Towing or not. The truck has a homemade camper on it. I don't know how much the silly thing weighs but the truck is rated for 19,500 Lbs. What kind of mileage should he expect? Seems like 10 is about Par for the course. :o

[Mark Rinker]

The C5500s are usually geared really deep...like 5.15s or something.

10 all the time sounds right. When a diesel is geared that deep, it tends to flatten out the mileage, regardless of load. That is why most semi trucks will get 6mpg, empty or loaded.

I might average a little better with my 4.44 C4500 but its not much. Tall boats and a headwind I get 7 or 8. Empty trailer I might get 11 or 12.

My advice? "Quit paying attention - its too depressing." If these commercial duty trucks aren't grossing 5x of your fuel bill every month, then you might want to investigate something more economical to drive to the campground. :)

[Duramaster]

Thanks Mark! I know that you of all people should know that! With that nice long trip you just took. Did the info I send you help you on your gears out at all? :)