All those that use e85!?

Slo281 · March 31, 2015

Is the feeling of the trucks change in hp significant enough to make up for fuel loss? I really like the idea of getting 380 hp for something as simple as running different fuel so to all those running it or who have ran it, post your reviews and thoughts.

SouthernSilveradoGuy85 · March 31, 2015

It really comes down to how much cheaper E85 is. I haven't crunched the #s but I believe 85 has to be about $1 cheaper to equal out. I could be wrong though, just what I think I remember from another post. There's actually not any E85 around where I live, I would ahve to go over an hour away to get some so I won't even get to at least try it.

scott19677 · March 31, 2015

HP difference isn't really all that much but the high compression engine really likes E85 and feels very "snappy" for lack of a better word. Be prepared for significant MPG loss. Its not really worth it to run E85 in the winter due to MPG loss. BUT... Run a tank or two of E85, drive in M5, and use tow haul mode. Like a totally different truck lol. Shake and bake

Oh yeah don't forget to turn off the TC and Stabilatrack during those burnouts!

Northside · March 31, 2015

I've been running it for well over a year now. I lost about 2 to 2.5 mpg. Got 18.5 on the highway running 80 to 85 mph. The truck is definitely more fun to drive. The throttle response is a lot better, and it feels like it accelerates much better even at partial throttle.. It's obviously worth it to me. I figure I lose about 15% on mileage so if gas is $2.25 E85 would have to be $1.91 to break even. These truck run better on premium so that might be the gas you want to compare the price to. The boost in performance has got to be worth something too. A lot of guys here don't seem to want to consider that though. You will see most negative comments on E-85 from guys who haven't run it. I do. I like it.

POS VETT · March 31, 2015

I've been using way more E85 than Premium in my 5.3L FFV truck and, like others have said, the engine runs differently; it also has a different sound. Response to throttle input is sharper.

Regarding fuel consumption rate, it is lower than using premium, which is expected. Personally, I want larger power output, I have very little care about fuel consumption rate as long as the higher consumption rate is commensurate to higher power output. Whether it's 4 mpg or 40 mpg, I could not care any less.

Now, for those who are watching the mpg very closely, keep in mind that the fuel price itself fluctuates. When comparing prices, it's best to use percentage over an absolute difference. The fuel consumption rate is only linear with the percentage and when comparing cost, using a 20-25% factor would predict a better cost estimate over, say, $1/gal price difference.

KARNUT · March 31, 2015

I agree with most, I use only E 85 locally. On a trip I use premium grade gas when I can't get E85.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

towdog333 · March 31, 2015

I hate ethanol, here in PA you have to buy it , in TN where they do have real gas my truck runs better and the mpg's are a lot more

RONKO · March 31, 2015

I use E85 most of the time. Where I live there are 3 Valero stations that have it. Right now where I fill up regular unleaded is $2.15 a gallon and E85 is $1.99. Less mpg than gas, but not enough for me to make a difference. I do feel more "pep" when using the E85. Makes me feel good supporting the American farmer, I grew up in central Illinois farm country (corn and soybeans as far as the eye could see). Would rather spend my money on American corn than Middle East oil.

junkyardz · April 8, 2015

I run e85 almost exclusively, big difference in the way the truck drives. Way more fun. Here the gas prices as of today are 2.10 for 87 and 1.73 for e85. Now that the warmer weather has arrived, my 50 mile avg usually hovers around 15.5mpg on e85.

JRDUCKS · April 8, 2015

I tried one tank and my truck was significantly more enjoyable to drive. The truck accelerated and drove much better the motor and transmission even seemed to work more efficiently together. I would have continued to run it if I hadn't been in a rush and low on fuel forcing me to get 87.

joeglock40 · April 9, 2015

I wish it was that cheap here in tucson, gas is 2.07 and e85 is like 2.39, im getting about 18mpg doing mostly Highway compared to 23 on 89 octane. Cost is more but it runs Better, cleaner and helps me roast them tires that much easier

gone_fishing · April 9, 2015

I haven't ran E85 since last fall but when I did I lost about 2-3 MPG highway which I didn't think was too bad. Especially when I bought it for $0.89 a gallon at a station in Alexandria, MN. I can monitor timing and KR with my ScanGauge. When cruising in V4 mode, I normally pick up KR with gas but with E85 it's basically gone.

Slo281 · April 10, 2015

Running my first tank, engine sounds a bit different and I do feel a difference. It's not a ridiculous difference but the truck is a little quicke and hard to keep my foot off the pedal. Downside is e85 where I live is 2 cents cheaper than regular fuel. With the mpg lost probably won't continue to run it from a financial standpoint.