MPG and Oil
 

We just purchased a 1998.5 Ram 2500 24 Valve Cummins 5.9L High Output 6 Speed (I think that is all the info you will want) truck. This is the first Diesel we have owned and learning some things. What my questions are:

1. We are getting about 16 mpg and we tow a lot (typically 2 cords of wood twice a week). Is this good?? Is there a way to make it better??

2. We have heard many things, good and bad, about switching to synthetic motor oil. What are your opinions on this. Would rather hear from actual owners than the guys at the parts store. Is switching is good, is there a brand that is better than the others?? We are in Texas, if that makes a difference.

If there is anything else/advice you can give I will gladly take it. Thank you in advance for any help that can be given.

I run rotella T3 oil in my personal truck and also use it as a mechanic in other peoples vechiles. Never had an issue running it. As far as fuel mileage goes. I get on the highway between 24 and 27 depending on how I drive. I have a few upgrades that helped me achieve that. A programmer helps. More power the engine makes means the less it has to work. You also need air flow in and out of the engine. And upgraded cold air intake and exhaust will slightly help. I want to put injectors in my truck also. So when I'm done I'm hoping to be around 30 on the highway. And when I haul it drops between 16 and 20 MPG. depends on the load I'm hauling and on if its through the mountains or not. Hope I could help. And questions on your truck just ask and I'm more then willing to share what I know.:tu: