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, Tue, 16 Mar 2004 18:16:36
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This is on a Sonett, right? (I ask because sometimes people don't read the labels at the top and post questions about those icky hyphenated nuevo-Saabs.)
Is the engine stock or modified? Have you noticed any performance decreases other than in MPG?
There are approx. 1 kazillion things that can manifest themselves as reduced gas mileage, ranging from dragging brakes to a family of elephants nesting in your car. Most of the engine-related ones usually also show up in the form of poor performance one way or another, but some obvious ones to check:
-- Choke: is it opening all the way when the engine warms up?
-- Air filter elements: are they reasonably clean?
-- Tuneup items: Plugs clean and correct? Ignition timing OK?
-- Valve clearances: Need to be set occasionally. How long since you did this?
-- Engine condition: How's the compression? Tested it lately?
-- Exhaust system: How's it look? Any big dents or obstructions? Do you feel a nice even puff of exhaust fumes out the tailpipe while the engine is running? Restricted/clogged exhaust will hurt MPG.
Any problems in these areas reduce engine performance, which turns into poor mileage since the engine has to burn more fuel to produce the same amount of oomph.
Other stuff that can hurt mileage even if the engine is OK:
-- Dragging brakes: Front caliper that won't retract (common problem on Sonetts), misadjusted rear drums, or parking brake that won't release fully. Usually you'll feel dragging brakes through the steering wheel and/or notice excess heat.
-- Fuel leaks: Obviously, fuel that doesn't reach the engine gives you 0 MPG, right? Leaks can be caused by anything from a rotted-out rubber line to a rusty fuel tank. Usually you'll notice the smell or see gas under the car, but a careful inspection wouldn't hurt.
And um, oh, yeah, if you have goosed up the engine with a trick cam, bigger carbs, etc., and you drive with your foot to the floor most of the time, your gas mileage won't be as good as originally advertised. Yes, you'll be having a lot more fun, but ya gotta pay for your fun somehow...
Anyway, this should give you some ideas of places to look for the problem. Start with the easy/obvious ones first and then work your way down. If you haven't checked the choke, filters and tuneup stuff lately, these would be good things to do in general even if they turn out not to be related to your mileage problem. Good luck and have fun!
posted by 204.76.113...
, Tue, 16 Mar 2004 18:16:36
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