How many miles per gallon does a 1988 Ford f350 get?
The 1988 Ford F-350’s miles-per-gallon (MPG) varies by engine and configuration. Gasoline versions typically average about 12–14 miles per gallon combined, while diesel variants commonly reach around 15–20 mpg on highways. Real-world numbers depend on engine choice, axle ratio, drivetrain (2WD vs. 4x4), payload, and driving style.
Understanding how these figures come together helps owners and prospective buyers gauge running costs, plan long trips, and assess maintenance needs for a vintage heavy-duty pickup.
Engine options in the 1988 F-350
Different powertrains were available for the 1988 F-350, spanning gasoline V8s and diesel inline-sixes. The following options were commonly found in this model year:
- Gasoline 5.8 L (351 Windsor) V8
- Gasoline 7.5 L (460) V8
- Diesel 6.9 L IDI inline-6
- Diesel 7.3 L IDI inline-6
Gasoline engines typically delivered lower efficiency when carrying heavy loads, while diesel options offered better highway economy and torque for towing. Actual MPG varied widely based on gearing, payload, and usage.
Factors that affect MPG on a 1988 F-350
Several variables influence the fuel economy of a heavy-duty pickup from this era. A snapshot of the main factors is below.
- Payload and towing weight load the engine and drivetrain, reducing MPG.
- Terrain and driving conditions (steep hills, city stop-and-go vs. steady highway cruising).
- Drivetrain configuration (2WD vs. 4x4) and axle gearing, which affect RPM and efficiency.
- Transmission type and any overdrive features, plus the overall condition of the drivetrain.
- Maintenance and engine health (air filters, fuel injectors or pumps in diesels, spark plugs, ignition timing, cooling system).
- Tire size and pressure; heavier tires and underinflation raise rolling resistance.
With vintage trucks, irregular maintenance or mechanical wear can have a bigger impact on MPG than on modern vehicles, so real-world figures may differ substantially from estimates.
How to estimate MPG on a classic 1988 F-350
To obtain a reliable MPG figure for a specific truck, use a simple measurement method that accounts for the vehicle’s workload and road conditions:
- Fill the fuel tank to full and record the odometer reading or reset a trip meter.
- Drive normally for a representative distance, avoiding extreme driving styles just for the test.
- Fill the tank again and record the gallons used and miles driven (difference in odometer/trip meter).
- Calculate MPG: miles driven divided by gallons used. Repeat over multiple fill-ups for a more accurate average.
Note that older diesel engines, fuel blends, and wear patterns can skew a single-fill measurement, so averaging across several cycles provides a clearer picture.
Summary
For a 1988 Ford F-350, MPG is primarily dictated by engine choice and drivetrain. Gasoline-powered trucks generally fall in the low-teens for combined mileage, while diesel versions tend to achieve higher highway efficiency, often in the mid-teens to around 20 mpg, depending on gearing and load. Real-world numbers vary widely due to payload, terrain, and maintenance, so owners should measure their own fuel economy over several fill-ups to get an accurate read. Regular maintenance and mindful driving can help maximize the efficiency of this classic heavy-duty workhorse.
Do you get less gas mileage with 88?
The general studies show that the mileage hit isn't significant, emissions are marginally better and that if you drive your vehicle regularly 88 shouldn't damage your engine.
How many miles to the gallon does a Ford F350 get?
F-350 MPG varies significantly based on engine, gearing, and whether it's empty or towing, but real-world figures often range from 10-13 MPG for the 7.3L gas engine and 11-15 MPG for the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel when towing. Unloaded, the diesel can achieve around 20 MPG on the highway, while the gas engine might get 14-17 MPG.
This video discusses the fuel economy of the F-350 with different engines and gears: 27sCTech-reviewYouTube · Dec 7, 2024
Gas Engine (7.3L "Godzilla")
- Combined/City: Expect around 10−1110 minus 1110−11 MPG, but sometimes closer to 131313 MPG.
- Highway (unloaded): Around 14−1714 minus 1714−17 MPG, with some owners reporting up to 16.516.516.5 MPG at 707070 mph.
- Towing: Drops significantly, potentially to 10−1210 minus 1210−12 MPG with a heavy load.
Diesel Engine (6.7L Power Stroke)
- Combined/City: Typically around 121212 MPG.
- Highway (unloaded): Up to 202020 MPG, though some drivers report 23−2523 minus 2523−25 MPG instantaneous on flat ground.
- Towing: Expect about 11.411.411.4 MPG when towing a 7,200-7,500 lb travel trailer at 707070 mph, or around 12.512.512.5 MPG when towing a 15,00015 comma 00015,000 lb load.
Factors that influence MPG
- Engine choice: The diesel engine is more efficient, especially for towing, while the gas engine has a lower upfront cost.
- Gearing: Different rear-end gear ratios will affect your mileage. Lower gears (like 4.304.304.30) can lead to higher RPMs and lower MPG.
- Driving habits: Aggressive acceleration and high speeds will significantly decrease fuel economy.
- Towing/Payload: Hauling heavy loads requires more work from the engine, leading to lower MPG.
- Tire choice: Aftermarket tires, especially larger or more aggressive ones, can lower MPG.
How much is a 1988 Ford f350 worth?
The value of a 1988 Ford F-350 1 Ton can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $20,142 for a 1988 Ford F-350 1 Ton in good condition with average spec.
What is the gas mileage on a 1989 Ford f350?
Although the rings were worn out, it still achieved 12.5 to 13 MPG on the highway unless towing heavy trailers on mountain grades. The worst mileage recorded was about 11 MPG while towing a 12K lb fifth-wheel trailer.
