How to Convert a Car To Propane
Compared to ordinary fuel, liquid propane offers plenty more benefits. Not only is it less expensive than gasoline, but it’s also safe for the environment. Many people are shifting to this type of fuel nowadays, and with a little hard work, you and your vehicle, can also reap the benefits of having a propane-powered engine. Here’s how to convert your car engine to propane.
What You’ll Need:
Propane
Hose
Propane conversion kit
Qualified conversion contractor
Procedure:
For the conversion to go well, make sure your vehicle is well-maintained and functional. The less problems your vehicle has, the simpler the conversion process becomes.
Determine the type of conversion system you want to have. If you want a close-looped system, you’ll have a sensor that will give data continuously on performance, adjusting air and fuel ratio as it deems necessary. It’s also a bit more pricey. An open-looped system, on the other hand, does not have control over electronics, so you can’t gauge its performance.
Check your car’s warranties. Although there are states that require manufacturers of conversion kits to give a comprehensive warranty, you might be voiding your own original warranty. The warranty must cover the propane system, as well as the mechanical failures you can get from it.
Buy a conversion kit. This will have a fuel carburetor (controller), tank, valves, actuators, software and electronics. The conversion kit must be compatible with your engine.
Get a liquid propane tank and mount it. If using truck or van, change the gasoline tank under the vehicle, but if it’s a passenger car, the tank will just fit in the trunk.
Position the liquid propane hoses in such a way that curbs, road irregularities and rocks don’t damage or crush them.
Modify your engine, depending on the instructions given by the conversion kit’s manufacturer. Adjust the compression ratio and cam timing properly.
For safety purposes, install an electronic shut-off valve. This isolates the propane from the engine when your vehicle is turned off, and also stops the propane flow, in case an accident arises.
Fuel the car and see if there are leaks. As you first start it, look if leaks near the filter are present. Adjust the timing. For propane use, most cars are set to idler faster than needed.
After converting your car to propane, maintain it the same way as before. Just keep an eye on the spark plugs, as many converted cars have problems with these.