Propane Conversion Kit for Generator

[DRH1175]

I saw a add in the weekly outdoor paper for a kit that can convert my Yammaha 2000 generator to use a standard 20lb propane tank. My question is what would be the advantage to this other than not worrying about the carberator getting dirty from gas etc... Is this something to look into or just a gimmick? What are others thoughts on this?

[landscaper]

I also saw the same thing and i am wondering the same thing also

thanks

[Macgyver55]

I've installed these on a couple commercial gas air compressors but not a generator.

Some of the benefits I can think of are,

A propane powered small engine provides the same power as gasoline, and it will allow longer, uninterrupted run times! You can connect it to your big tanks that you use for heat and eliminate having to carry extra fuel cans for gas. It is a cleaner burning fuel and will help extend the life of your engine. When properly adjusted will start as good or better than on gas with less chance of flooding. There is no need to drain fuel or treat it when the unit is not being used. With some kits, you can also retain the ability to be able to use gasoline if you still want or need to.

Not sure how long the return on investment will be but the more you use it the quicker it will be.

[B-man715]

I've looked into this as well.

Not sure what company the ad you saw is for, but it sounds like the place to go is out of Maine (google generatorsales dot com).

They sell a Tri-Fuel kit that bolts right onto the outside of the unit (with a modified carb). The price seems very reasonable too.

If your generator is brand new, you pay a core charge for your carb (they send you a new modified one). If it is used, you need to mail it to them and they convert it, sending you back the same one you sent.

You will burn about 10% more fuel, but lose all of the problems related to today's gasoline (gumming up etc).

A 20 lb propane tank holds about 4 gallons of fuel, and costs about $15 dollars to fill (depending on where you go); making it a little more expensive to run than gas. But depending on your amount of use it will make little difference overall.

I would guestimate 45-55 hours of use from a tank running what I do.

To keep the tank warm in cold weather, all you would need to do is point the back of the generator towards the tank, allowing all of the liquid to form into gas.

And if your propane tank runs out, you are still able to run normal gasoline in it, as well as natural gas, without any changes to the unit.

There is another company called U.S. Carburation, and from what I've read this is NOT who you would want to deal with (poor customer service, bad parts etc). With them, You modify the carb, and it is about the same price.

Hope this helps....