After the lower engine rebuild......

[ChiXJeff]

I do find that my gas mileage has definitely increased.

Freeway mileage is up, 2 tanks at 18.8 mpg, up from the low 16s. Generally getting an extra 30-40 miles to the tank.

Commuting mileage is also up, but by less than 1 mpg.

Is it worth doing just for the mileage? Certainly not, it'd take years to pay off just the parts.

[Kejtar]

WHat did you do (details.. details :) )
Kejtar

[ChiXJeff]

Lessee....... FrankenHeep.......

rod & main bearings. (2 of the old rod bearings were showing distinct scores.)
high volume oil pump (from AutoZone, no oil pan massaging required)
Cloyes timing chain and sprocket set
harmonic balancer
oil pan gasket, rear main gasket, front main gasket

I did this on a stand, but it's in theory doable from underneath without pulling the engine.