Difference with new air intake and performance chip?

[raminal]

2012 Ram 1500, 4.7L.
All stock. Bought used from dealer (elderly person had leased). Truck in immaculate condition and I've had about 12 fillups since I bought it and I'm happy to say I'm getting the estimated MPG (14) as if the truck was brand new.

Right now I'm looking to see if there are small things I can do to assist with a slightly better MPG. Is it even possible to go over the estimated MPG? Or are the upgrades I'm looking at better for trucks that are older and not running like they did new (like mine is)? Are these upgrades me just throwing money out the window?

My goal isn't to increase power and HP, it's more MPG and general truck care. I'm not concerned about gas prices, I just like to baby the truck a little.

I'm looking at installing a K&N 77-1529KP HighFlow Air Intake, and a Jet Performance Module Stage 1 90902. These two ok?

I know there are DIY air intakes for cheaper but I'm not into DIY enough so a K&N is fine, even though expensive. I've seen videos where it can improve MPG and I'm wondering if anyone here noticed slight MPG increases with a better air intake?

My big question though is about performance chips. They cost a lot!!! The Jet chip is listed as:
"STAGE 1 - For stock or mildly modified vehicles. Fuel and timing curves are modified for optimal performance and mileage using less expensive, lower octane fuels. Programming is designed to burn fuel at peak efficiency, which results in improved performance and mileage. Daily drivers can use lower cost regular fuel for potential mileage gains, but for optimal performance gains use of mid-grade or better is recommended."
I don't mind going up a fuel grade, that's fine, but can it really help? I've heard a lot of folks say they're crap and don't work, but I've also heard the odd story where people compare MPGs before and after and see a small difference.

If I can hit 16 MPG with these 2 upgrades, I'd be happy. Technically, it might take 4 years to make up the difference lol but I don't plan on selling any time soon.... So forum, what are the thoughts on adding a air intake and performance chip at once? Is the jet chip a decent one? I'd rather not get something that I can program or play with. I just want something tested, works, and is plug and play.

Thanks!

 

[cableguy_hd]

dont buy the Jet, get a real tuner. Diablo or Superchips or Bullydog

 

[Tat2hemi]

^^^^ I second that, get a tuner call Matt at moes he knows what works

 

[RLJ10X]

I paid $1.89 for gas yesterday.

Drive the speed limit. Don't make any unecessary trips. Case closed.

I used to sometimes, chase mpg numbers like some guys chase quarter mile et numbers. For 9 months, I rode my Yamaha WR 250 R to and from work, rain or shine. I never noticed any extra money. Never noticed and less when I went back to driving the truck.

 

[Johnn123]

Dont bother with a jet chip, IMO they are snake oil. As stated buy a real tuner.

In my experience CAI's also do not increase MPG or power. They make a cool noise thats it. Again my opinion on it, Im sure some will disagree with me. Having said that, many people on here seem very pleased with the Vararam intake over the K&N intake.

FWIW, I get about 16-17 mpg in my 2010 5.7. Drive the speed limit, dont take unnecessary trips and learn to drive easy. Dont worry about people passing you, coast down hills, coast to stop signs and red lights, little things like that. Id also suggest when you need new tires, go with a lighter street tire. If you have 17" wheels, drop down to a p245/70/17 tire. Less work for the motor that way, less tire to turn. I dont know smaller sizes to recommend with the 20's.

 

[Big Blue Hemi]

No Jet chip and IMO stay away from the K&N, there are better.

 

[raminal]

Thanks everyone! Really appreciate the info. I'll stay away from both the air filter and the chip. It's easy to tell I don't know a lot about vehicles, let alone trucks, so I'm happy there are folks around who don't mind teaching people.

I'm already a pretty efficient driver and think that's why I'm able to get the 14MPG in my sea level, very hilly, area.

I'll start researching tuners... Seems some let you choose between fuel savings or power on the fly?! That's pretty awesome!