Yesterday, we gave you a brief education about hypermiling: when it started, what it is, etc. Today, we’re going to tell you some of the steps, both safe and unsafe, that hypermilers use to increase their gas mileage. As you read these, though, keep in mind that some of them could be dangerous and you should only use them at your own risk. In fact, the risk isn’t worth the few cents you might save on fuel.

1. Tires with too much inflation: This isn’t the safest technique, but some hypermilers use it. One hypermiler, Larry Singleton, inflates his tires about 15-20 pounds more than the recommended pressure. He considers this a safe measure because he rarely drives on the highway. At slower speeds throughout town, overinflated tires don’t pose as much of a threat. But they can still be unpredictable. Overinflation leads to less friction on the road and, as a result, uses fewer drops of fuel than tires at the proper inflation.

2. Putting a piece of cardboard over the radiator: Cooler engines aren’t as fuel-efficient as warm engines. By placing a piece of cardboard over the radiator, you reduce the amount of wind that gets to it. As a result, the radiator and engine retain heat. You can even find silver-colored cardboard at your local office supply store for more insulation. If you’re going long distances, however, this could cause your engine to overheat. Remove the cardboard if you’re driving more than 75 continuous miles.

3. Driving in the “paint”: If you’re a driver, you know about the white lines on the outer edge of the highway. But did you know the paint gives the edge a coating that causes less friction? And less friction leads to better fuel economy. During periods of rain, “riding the line” is also helpful because puddles tend to form near the center of the road, causing you to lose a few miles in fuel economy.

Tomorrow we’ll have more hypermiling techniques that you can use (if you dare) with your certified Ford.

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