How to Convert a Car to Propane

Liquid propane is not only lesser in price than gasoline, but also an environment friendly. Nowadays many people are converting to propane based systems to have maximum benefits of this liquid propane. With a little effort you can also take benefits of propane powered engine. In this article we will tell you how you can convert your gasoline engine to liquid propane.

Items Required

• Hose
• Propane
• Qualified conversion contractor
• Propane conversion kit

Steps

• Before conversion makes sure that your vehicle is in good functional form. Conversion process is extremely simple if your vehicle is in good form.

• There are two types of conversion system, you have to decide which conversion system you want for your vehicle. Close-looped system has a sensor that provides information regarding performance, fuel ratio, air pressure etc continuously. It is an expensive system. The second is Open looped system that does not have any sensor, it is less expensive and do not give you any performance based information.

• You are required to check the warranties. Many conversion kit manufacturers give warranty. You have to inspect that the warranty should cover the propane system and any other mechanical problems.

• Buy a conversion kit, which is compatible with your engine type. Conversion kits contain carburetors, tank, valves, electronics and actuators.

• Once you got a liquid propane tank fix it in the vehicle. If you want to fix it in a truck or van, you will have to fix it under the vehicle, whereas in case of passenger car it will be fixed in a trunk.

• Carefully adjust the position of the hoses so that they will remain safe and protected from rocks, road irregularities and curbs.

• Follow the instructions given by conversions kit’s manufacturer while modifying your engine. Arrange the cam and compression ratio timing accordingly.

• It is suggested to set up an electronic shut off valve for safety precautions. This valve will automatically stop the supply of propane to engine when you turned it off or in emergency situations like an accident.

• Once you are done with the task fill the tank with fuel and check for leaks, especially near the filter. Remember for propane use, idler is set faster than the normal fuels.

The only problem which has been seen with propane converted cars is that of spark plugs. But that can be resolved. The maintenance of propane engine is very much alike gasoline engine.