1992 Ford Escort LX

[Thtwsacls1]

Hey everybody

Great forum you got here. I read about hypermiling elsewhere on the net and it peaked my interest. I did some more research and found this site. Hooray! My last tank refill was $40 so I decided to really take this stuff seriously and save some bucks.

A Quick Bio
First off, I'm a fairly laid back driver, I never go beyond 5 miles above the speed limit. I break gradually and cruise to stops or cruise whenever its reasonable. My style consists of accelerations and cruising. If I'm in a hurry or late I accelerate hard at lights, but I'm trying to stay organized so that doesn't happen anymore.

So far my car has given me some pretty good gas mileage. I don't feel like I fill up that often (yesterday was my first time at the pump this month). But I'm trying to find a way to keep better track of my mileage while increasing efficiency. I've seen some very informative material here so I hope I can learn something.

From the title you already know what car I drive so here are some relevant specs:

-Fuel tank: 11.9gals
-Transmission: Automatic 4spd
-EPA Mpg Estimate: 26(combined)

I'm just starting out, so I'll list my beginner goals for you guys here:

-Fill tires up to maximum rating listed on tirewall
-Leave for destinations early to allow for slower, smoother driving
-Turn off engine in neutral before shifting to park when parking the car
-Get an Mpg meter to manage fuel economy
-Coast/cruise behind larger vehicles whenever possible
-Windows up on highway, windows down in the town when warm (avoid AC)
-Keep a cold drink w/ice at hand in a thermos for hot days (avoid AC)

That's it so far. Take a look and let me know what you think!

Oh yeah, one more thing. Does anyone know of a good place to get an Mpg meter? Anyone find a meter at a bargain price at some place?