5 to 6 speed conversion????

Just back from trip to Florida tow show. 18.4 MPG over 2300 miles, about 8000#, mostly 68 to 74 MPH some up to 80 MPH. What could I expect with a 6th gear???? half, 3/4, 1 MPG better???? Those who have enabled the sixth gear care to chime in, Thank you! Is it worth the expense? What is the least expensive way to enable the sixth gear? (04.5 LLY) How strong is the sixth gear, for trailer pulling, can it be locked out so fifth is top gear when pulling a heavy trailer? Thank you. bob.........................

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Originally Posted by carco

Just back from trip to Florida tow show. 18.4 MPG over 2300 miles, about 8000#, mostly 68 to 74 MPH some up to 80 MPH. What could I expect with a 6th gear???? half, 3/4, 1 MPG better???? Those who have enabled the sixth gear care to chime in, Thank you! Is it worth the expense? What is the least expensive way to enable the sixth gear? (04.5 LLY) How strong is the sixth gear, for trailer pulling, can it be locked out so fifth is top gear when pulling a heavy trailer? Thank you. bob.........................

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In my opinion/experience, the wind is the biggest factor. Slow down and save. I have the 6 speed kit on my 2005 and love it. We sell them on our web site. I haven't really seen any solid MPG gain. The big key is the lower RPM reduces engine noise significantly at highway speeds.

John, thanks for the reply. Yes, wind resistance is a big factor as well as RPM over about 2000rpm, which also increases speed thus wind resistance, wow can't win! Sounds like a lot of money for little to no gain, reading between the lines of your response John?? Thanks bob..........

My best advice is if you do it, do it for reasons OTHER than MPG gains and you will not be disappointed.

John
How much does the 6th gear reduce the RPM? I just returned from a a 3000 mile round trip to CA from TX towing a large road bike on a utility trailer with my 05 LLY. Averaged 15 mpg over whole trip running 70 mph and it was windy for the majority of the trip. Noticed whenever I slowed to 65 mph or 200 RPM, mileage increased significantly. Granted, wind resistance is less at 65 but the lesser RPM contributes as well.