Gas is a massive expense for car ownership, especially if you have to use the car daily. And if you happen to get traffic regularly, then looking for ways to minimize your transport costs becomes a priority. In the last few years, electric cars have become popular not only for their economic impact but also for cost-saving purposes.
And now there is a new player in the market that is not only cheaper than using an electric car, but it does not require an electric vehicle that tends to be pricier than regular cars. And the answer is propane.
Can a truck run on propane?
Yes. A truck can run on propane as it is a source of energy, just like any other fuel source.
Can a gasoline engine run on propane?
Yes. a gasoline engine can run on propane. But first, you need to convert the engine to enable it to be able to handle propane.
Can a truck run off propane without any conversion?
No. gasoline combustion is different from propane combustion on account of the difference in density. They also produce different amounts of energy. To put it into perspective, one cubic foot of propane produces 2,516 BTUs while one cubic foot of natural gas produces 1,030 BTUs. This equates to different combustion levels. This means you need a conversion kit to allow your engine to run off of propane.
What conversions are necessary to start using propane?
You will need a conversion kit for your truck’s combustion unit as wells as a propane injection system and the necessary electronic gadgets to handle the propane usage.
Are bi-fuel trucks an option?
Yes. Some trucks are designed to use two types of fuel, namely gasoline and other gas- such as natural gas, hydrogen, or LPG in the same combustion engine. They usually come with two separate tanks for the two fuel types and two fuel injection systems.
Some engines can be used in unison, while some engines use the two fuels interchangeably. This requires switching back and forth between the two fuel tanks either manually or automatically. The propane tanks are installed in the trunk of the vehicle or the underside of the truck.
How to convert a truck to use propane
Converting a car for propane use is more complicated than changing a part in your vehicle. If you cannot do it rights, you are better off hiring a professional to do the job. Here is an overview of the steps needed to convert a truck to use propane.
Prep your car
First, you need to ensure that your car is well maintained before you start the conversion process. Having to handle car problems after the conversion can be complicated. Or even lead to more complications, especially if you have engine-related issues.
Select a conversion kit
There are different types of conversion kits in the market. You have to decide which conversion kit to install in your truck. The open-loop system is basic as it does not control the electronic system of the truck. This prevents you from gauging the performance of your engine. And the closed-loop system uses a sensor to provide performance data. It also allows you to adjust the fuel to air ratio for optimal performance.
Warranty check
As the conversion will void your truck’s warranty, you need to ensure that your conversion kit comes with a comprehensive warranty covering any mechanical failures the kit may cause. Some states require conversion kit manufacturers to provide a comprehensive warranty.
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Buy the conversion kit
Find the conversion kit compatible with your car and ensure it comes with a fuel controller (carburetor), valves, tank, actuators, electronics, and software. You can buy the items together or separately, depending on what you need for your car.
Retrofit the propane tank
Since this is a full propane fuel use conversion, remove the gasoline tank underneath the vehicle and replace it with the propane tank. You may need to hire a professional to handle the conversion. Then proceed to run the propane hose and insulate them to protect them from damage.
Modify the engine
Follow the manufacturer’s conversion kit instructions and modify your engine as needed. Make sure you adjust the cam timing and compression ratio. Then install the valve for isolating the propane from the engine when the car is off. It is also essential for stopping the propane flow during an accident. Finally, install the electronic shut-off valve for safety.
Test the conversion
Then fuel the tank and check for gas leaks. Then proceed to start up your car and see if the conversion was successful. Confirm that you made the necessary timing adjustments. Also, ensure that you inspect your filter for gas leaks on occasion. Remember to check your spark plugs from time to time as this is the leading cause of problems for propane converted trucks.
What are the pros and cons of running your truck on propane?
Of course, converting your truck to run on propane has its advantages and disadvantages. Knowing them before pulling the trigger will help prevent frustrations or regrets later on.
The Pros of converting Your Truck to Run on Propane
Here are the advantages of converting your automobile to run on gasoline.
Burns cleaner than gasoline
According to the Propane Council, LPG produces fewer emissions than gasoline. This, in turn, leads to fewer engine breakdowns and part replacements. The lower carbon footprint is also beneficial for the environment.
Source: Propanecouncil.org, 2009
Cheaper than gasoline
Propane is relatively cheaper than gasoline, which means you save money in the long run compared to gasoline.
Reduced engine maintenance
Due to the reduced engine breakdown due to the clean fuel, you will maintain your car fewer times than when using gasoline.
Less combustible
Propane is a safer source of fuel than gasoline because it has a lower flammability range. This makes it less explosive than gasoline.
Environmentally friendly
Propane produces fewer ozone-damaging compounds into the air as compared to gasoline. Ti is also lower in lead and sulfur elements found in gasoline that leads to acid rain. They also produce less carbon monoxide.
The Cons
Higher consumption
A vehicle burns through propane faster than gasoline, requiring more frequent refills than gasoline. It also produces less power than gasoline because it is less dense than gasoline.
Heavier tank
Propane tanks are more massive than gasoline tanks, and they take up more space. This makes the vehicle heavier, resulting in higher fuel consumption.
What is the price comparison between gasoline and propane?
According to research, propane consumption is higher than gasoline consumption. However, since propane is in gas form, it tends to burn more efficiently, especially in cold weather. It is also cheaper than gasoline making it the less expensive of the two,
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