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Old 12-11-2014, 03:37 PM   #6 (permalink)
cosmick
Experienced UAW Mechanic
 
Join Date: Sep 2014
Location: Bear Lake
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Frank Lee View Post
I think the best way is to find a BSFC chart for your engine and note the sweet spot.

Failing that, I've been using a 1000-1200 ft/mn piston speed theory that postulates best or near best efficiency is found in that rpm range. I am still not sure about the validity of it but I've run the numbers on many vehicles and even if it isn't perfect it isn't going to be too far off.
Uh, NO! Going off BSFC is as wrong as cruising at the RPM of peak TQ at WOT. Try that in a '98-'02 Z28, your MPG will drop from ~31 to upper teens.
Separate from that, I've had at least 4 different vehicles where a bit more axle ratio actually helped my MPG. Ya gotta try it and see, there is no substitute.
Like with this RX-7, I'm starting with a 2.29:1 axle gear until I figure out the aero, then I'll try a 2.14:1 axle gear.
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