the stinker said:
I've been thinking about my next van, and lately I've got eyes towards a third generation 15 passenger dodge b-series. I've looked a bit on fueleconomy.gov but I would like to know if anybody drives one and what kind of mileage they really get.
Also, how much affect does a high top have on mpg? like the big 2-3 foot ones?
Any suggestions for which one of these vans gets the best gas mileage or has the most reliable engine? Am i being sucked by the smooth (in my opinion) looks of the dodge? Should I consider the ford or others?
PS - this is for two people to live in so don't start suggesting smaller vehicles
Greetings!
1982 Dodge 15 passenger window van, with very high top:
13+mpg City, 15+mpg Highway
318 Automatic
Personal experience: Pre 1975 = best mpg, Mid 70's-Mid 80's best driving, and second best mpg. Newer than mid 80's = more smog control = worse mpg = less reliable = higher repair costs. Next newer body style from mid 80's = higher center of gravity, doesn't feel as sure footed while driving, rear end skips on tight corners(hairpin curves @ >5-10mph), noticeable roll feeling on curves at highway speeds.
All that being said, I still think the mid 80's Dodges are the best full size vans ever built. Their reliability is second to none, and their MPG's are right up there.
Cheers!
The CamperVan_Man
decodancer said:
You guys are the greatest. I felt silly asking such a simple question but math never was my strong suit. Thank you
Greetings!
If you figure that your full tank size is the top half of your tank, and try to never let it go below that half way mark, you will have plenty of buffer to keep you out of trouble.
With a broken gauge, it is always easier to just fill it up more often, because then you know exactly where you're at. It doesn't cost any more to put that $20 worth of gas in the top of the tank than it does to put it into the bottom, and sometimes you may even get a pleasant surprise and it will be full at only $10.
When I've had broken gauges, I just made a habit of filling up between 100-150 miles, and I never ran out. An ounce of prevention sure beats running out of gas.
If money is tight, many churches will give travelers a tank of gas too. If you're really needy, I have even seen some churches do special collections to help folks out.
(I'm not suggesting that YOU are really needy, but thought that info may be helpful to anyone in need who may read this post.)
Cheers!
The CamperVan_Man