Poor Fuel Mileage on 475/550 Cat

[TimTurtle]

I have a 475/550 Cat that gets poor fuel economy. I recently had it tuned up and turned up to the 550. The mechanic at the Cat garage said that my fuel economy would improve, but it hasnt. I've heard that other guys are complaining about the same thing. I only have 420k on this truck.
Any hints or suggestions/solutions would be appreciated!

 

[Weave]

The CAT C15/16, 3406 engines are not noted as fuel pinchers, but powerhouses. Usually 4-6 MPG with these is considered "good." If the injectors are clean and everything is working properly, about the only way to restore better MPG is to have the HP bumped back down again. Good, powerful engines, but the tradeoff is economy. I have heard the same complaints about the MPG issue on these that you have.
-Weave-

 

[BigBusBob]

RE: Fuel Mileage on C10 Cat ??

Truck I'm going into holds a Cat C10 I'm told...do I need to know anything about this engine? Tranny is a 6 speed Eaton Fuller.
Thanks, BigBus

 

[Weave]

RE: Fuel Mileage on C10 Cat ??

The C10 CAT is an excellent engine. Surprised to hear it's only teamed to a six speed, usually an 8 or 9 is the minimum with that engine or an autoshift or Allison of somesort.
-Weave-

 

[comfort king]

My question to you is "How much do you idle?" Your CAT probably burns about 1.0-1.2 gph while idling. There are a number of high quality, idle-elimination products on the market today to eliminate unnecessary engine idling, therefore increasing mpg, reducing engine wear, and allowing compliance with the "Idle Police". Call us, we can help. 800.837.3900