
Different road conditions require different gears to adapt, achieving the optimal match between driving speed and power output. Each vehicle has its own economical RPM range, and whether the engine speed is within this range significantly impacts fuel consumption. Ensure driving stability. When the speed reaches the desired level, appropriately reduce the throttle opening.

To save fuel while driving a Dongfeng Tianlong, there are quite a few tricks. Having driven long-haul freight for over a decade, my biggest takeaway is the importance of a gentle foot. When starting, lightly tap the accelerator—don’t floor it—and try to keep the RPM around 1,300. On the highway, maintaining a steady speed of 80 to 90 km/h is the most economical. Ease off the accelerator half a kilometer early to coast and use inertia to slow down, saving on brakes. Keep the AC low, avoid idling for more than three minutes, and clear out any unused tools or clutter in the cabin. Most importantly, control the pressure of your right foot—treat the accelerator like you’re stepping on an egg, and you’ll save a significant amount on fuel each month. Once these habits are formed, the fuel consumption numbers on the dashboard will be a sight for sore eyes.

After years of repairing trucks, adjusting the fuel consumption of Dongfeng Tianlong starts with maintenance. The air filter must be replaced every 20,000 kilometers—excessive dust can restrict airflow and cause fuel consumption to skyrocket. A clogged fuel filter leads to uneven fuel supply and requires regular cleaning. Check tire pressure twice a month; underinflated tires drag like running with sandbags. Degraded rear axle gear oil increases resistance, so replace it according to the manual. Engine carbon deposits are the trickiest—clean the throttle valve with detergent every 30,000 kilometers. Worn spark plug electrodes also waste fuel; adjust the gap to 0.9mm for optimal performance. Finally, always use genuine engine oil—low-quality oil increases friction and burns unnecessary fuel.

To reduce fuel consumption, you can install some practical modifications. I added a roof deflector and side skirts to my vehicle, which reduced aerodynamic drag by 15% at high speeds. Switched to low rolling resistance tires, which not only reduced tire noise but also improved fuel efficiency. Installed honeycomb aluminum panels on the cargo bed floor, reducing weight by 300 kg, making the empty vehicle much lighter and more agile. Added a vortex tube to the exhaust system to improve exhaust gas utilization, resulting in more responsive throttle. However, modifications should be done within your means. Tasks like ECU tuning must be handled by qualified workshops, as improper modifications can damage the engine. Also, never remove the catalytic converter—it will fail emissions tests and harm the environment.


