Convert small diesel motor vehicles or larger 40-tonne truck motors from diesel to propane using bespoke, on-board conversion systems. Operate the conversion system from inside the motor vehicle, turning it on or off at any time during transit with a manual function, or automatically when the ignition is switched on and off. Burn close to 100 percent of your diesel, which represents an excellent increase in efficiency of around 20 to 25 percent, according to Chiltern Gas Cars. Propane works efficiently with diesel engines because it acts as a catalyst to the diesel fuel.
Open the hood. Remove the engine cover if your car has one by lifting gently at the back two corners. Remove the cylinder head from the engine using a cylinder head removal tool. Remove the injectors and electronic control unit.
Employ a professional to convert the spark plugs and piston ready for the new conversion system to be put in place within the engine. The piston must be machined while it is still inside the engine, but the spark plugs can be converted externally. Remove them using a spark plug tool.
Install a bespoke diesel to propane conversion system from a reputable supplier, such as Eclipse, Chiltern Gas Cars--the "Gasmatronic" system--or Hybrid Fuel Systems, who are specialists in bus and van conversions. Make sure the conversion will fit in your vehicle. This conversion option will reduce your costs compared to the installation of a dedicated natural gas engine. Prices as of 2010 are around $3,500 compared to up to $50,000, respectively, as described by the Drivers website.
Ensure the mix of diesel and propane is monitored and kept to the recommended level. The mix fluctuates each time the vehicle's driver applies pressure to the accelerator pedal.
Maintain your car or van's electronic and computer engine components. Diesel to propane conversion systems rely on the car's internal computer to regulate the levels of propane being added to the fuel and the level of diesel being taken out of the fuel mix.
Install a close-coupled oxidation catalyst to the newly-upgraded engine to ensure efficient performance.
Adapt the conversion system to turbo diesel if required. Most bespoke products can achieve this automatically. According to Green Car Congress, the entire conversion should take no more than 75 hours, when you have all the necessary components at your disposal.
