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How To Convert Gas Generator To Propane Generator
Propane generators have a fair amount of advantages compared to gasoline generators, which can be conveniently achieved by the conversion process. Generators are such an important part of comfortable camping and nomadic traveling and propane generators are definitely a better choice for various sets of reasons.
Why You Should Be Using Propane In Place Of Gasoline?
Propane is environmentally friendly. It is not a completely safe fuel to use, but it is definitely better at controlling pollution. Propane releases less toxic gases when it burns and is often regarded as a cleaner fuel.
Propane is easily available and a more convenient option to use in case of a natural disaster, which is probably when you would want to use a generator. In case of inconvenience, gasoline is more likely hard to be found because of its wide use.
Propane can be stored for years without any problem in kept in safe containers and they come in form of thick containers with compressed gas so they are also very easy to travel with.
Propane is a highly efficient fuel with a high calorific value which is yet another reason to choose them over gas.
Things To Note Before Starting The Process Of Conversion
Converting or making modifications to your generator will forbid you from warranty-related benefits. If the conversion process fails or otherwise and you want to reuse it as a gasoline generator again, then you will have to undergo a lot of unintended mechanical apparatus purchase
Propane is highly dangerous because of its high density. Make sure you are in a large open space before attempting the experiment. The consequences can be hazardous and most likely lethal
If the propane leaks from the container, it is very hard to notice and by the time you do, it could be very late and difficult to remove because it odorless and also it stays at the bottom of the floor and does not evaporate quickly
Conversion:
There are various types and numbers of conversion kits available in the market that will help you through a smooth transition because they come with all mechanical replacements and instructions
But if you want to do this by yourself, it won’t be as easy and straightforward. The process will need a lot of playing around and fixing and finding alternatives to a solution. Sometimes you will need to trim down parts or find replacements for the required apparatus and it is not instantly doable as compared to just buying a kit
A lot of generators will not need any change in the engine or other parts. And a lot of recent generators are made for dual fuel use.
- Dismantle the generator's cover just enough so you can remove the engine's top cover
- Mark the place where you want to drill a hole for your propane tube can pass through
- Use a drilling machine and make a hole carefully.
- Remove the nuts covering your air filter compartment (number can vary according to different generators) and finally remove the air filter.
- Install the propane line tubes following the instructions if you have a kit or by watching videos on the internet
- Use a standard regulator with a tube (easy to find online or in a repair shop)
- Replace the air filter assembly that has a space for the propane line
In case you want to use an old carburetor just to prevent your currently perfectly functioning carb. You might either want to switch back to gasoline and this one cannot be used back again as it will have a certain amount of damage involved. So try to borrow an old one from a friend or get one from a nearby repair shop, just to be safe
A more elaborate version of the process, if you have got an old rusty one nearby, involves changing the carburetor’s compartments just so they could get back into work
- This process includes removing the old float and the butterfly valve and its shaft.
- The idle, shaft, and screws have to be removed entirely because they won't be necessary for a propane generator
- After removing the jet port, clean the carb and drill a large hole in the Venturi jet port large enough so that a propane tube can be inserted
- Seal up the old parts and install a new Venturi assembly
- Assemble all the parts together with the new Venturi inside the card and properly seal everything in place
But you won’t have to ideally do all of this if you can buy a conversion kit that is pretty affordable and a good long-term investment too. The kits are easily available too but you need to be careful before buying and see if they are compatible with your particular generator.
Final Words
Converting your gasoline generator to propane is an ideal choice if you have enough knowledge about generators and their working mechanisms. Otherwise, it is recommended you get some help from a friend, repair personnel, or at least a written detailed instruction booklet or manual.
Once you know what to do, the process will take less than an hour and is definitely manageable. It is also important to study propane’s hazardous qualities and store them safely. Hoping that the article has given you at least a brief insight into generator conversions. Cheers to Happy camping!