My previous vehicle was a '96 Ranger 2.3L (lima type), manual transmission, supercab. Even with the extra bulk and weight of the supercab, I was able to get 24-25 mpg in mixed urban driving - without much effort.
The few things that I tried that made a difference in mileage were:
synthetic ATF in the transmission (ATF is the correct fluid type here)
synthetic lube in the rear end
synthetic engine oil (decreased fuel consumption at idle measured with a Scangauge!)
coasting in neutral - only when safe to do so
Adding a Scangauge to learn how the truck responded to mods and driving techniques.
I never got around to lowering the truck, adding a grill block or bed cover, switching to light weight wheels, or anything else other than fairly routine maintenance. I feel that by doing these things I would have been able to get over 30 mpg with ease.
Good luck with your decision.
Wayne
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