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| Propane instead of gasoline? |
| Author |
Message |
    
Brent P
Visitor
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 - 10:16 pm: | 
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Has anyone ever converted a Palmer P-60 to run on propane?
While my P-60 runs well, it occurred to me the other day that I might eventually need to rebuild or repower. Diesel is predominant, but I do like the Palmer. Propane seems to offer a decent alternative to some of the shortcomings of gasoline while allowing me to keep the Palmer.
Anyone? |
Richard Shapiro
Senior Member
Username: mainesails
Post Number: 66
Registered: 09-2005
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 - 10:45 pm: |
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I don't know if any engine can be converted, but if so ...
You'll need a bigger tank to get the same range. I don't think Propane's got the same BTUs per gallon. There are also strict sealing and venting requirements for any compartment holding propane.
You'd need portable tanks for filling. Propane is rarely available dockside.
I would think it needs a special carb. I'd check out the carbs used on small house generators. I have a 16kw propane home generator, and I think it's got about the same power as a P60.
Finally, and I don't have the link in front of me right now, but beautiful non-metallic propane containers have recently come on the market. They are really cool and come in some different sizes. |
David Stott
Member
Username: david_stott
Post Number: 28
Registered: 06-2005
| | Posted on Thursday, June 26, 2008 - 02:14 am: |
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Brent, Just about any engine can run on Gas (LPG/Propane). Here in Australia all our Taxi's run on bottled gas. I have even seen Vintage cars running on gas. You will use more gas than petrol but gas is cheaper (here in Australia anyway).
You will need specialised equipment that provdes gas to the throat of your existing carby, and will need to talk to a professional installer. Try looking on the internet for "Automotive Gas installers" in Australia. We have many of them here.
The ignition timing can be advanced further than normal when using gas. The only issue will be venting because gas is heavier than air and if a leak ocurs it will lay in your bilge, and I do not need to remind you of the consequences of that. |
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