Quote:
Originally Posted by Coma
Second... I am converting a Carbureted vehicle. Not an EFI vehicle.
Modern Fuel injection has tweaked out as much efficiency as feasible, and therefore the energy capacity of the fuel would be the main variable. So a propane conversion would see about a 5-10% loss of energy and therefore mileage.
So... where to get fuel...
Yes! Propane is ABSOLUTELY much cheaper than gasoline. By as much at 30% cheaper!!! However, where you get it is the key. Any ol' mom and pop shop, or typically fueling station that sells LPG, is not necessarily selling it at Automotive rates. It could be $3, $4, or $5 a gallon (in US). Just depends... They're just not set up for mass distribution.
SO... you got to a dealer that IS set up for mass distribution. Typically a propane-only dealer, such as Suburban Propane, Amerigas, etc. Not all sell at automotive rates though. You can find out where with an online search.
So what kind of rates are we talking?
Cheapest gasoline (regular) here right now is $3.75/gal (regular).
The local Suburban Propane that sells "autogas," sell's it for about $2.50/gal.
Same or better mileage. Same or better power. Not a bad deal... (but as mentioned. FI won't see as big a benefit, unless you really rack up the miles).
You just have to know where to get LPG ahead of time. Fortunately my miles are all local, so I'll be able to fill up at the same place (during regular business hours however).
|
Ah, only in your case, I see. I was looking at a diesel motor coach but propane costs the same or more to operate than just off of the diesel fuel. However if one could purchase propane at the wholesale cost which typically hovers in the $1.30-$1.75 area it would make sense, no idea how to do that.