LPG Conversion for inboards

Silversurfer · 14-09-2005, 02:51 PM

Given that red diesel will cease to exists by 2007 does anyone know if you can convert inboard volvo penta engines (petrol) to run on LPG? And would this be a better option thatn opting for a traditional diesel powered boat?

Tony Davis · 14-09-2005, 03:38 PM

Volvo petrols are chevy's, so are mercs and omc, so no problem running on lpg. Is it worth it though, as I can't see the government allowing cheap fuel of any description for much longer!

PRINCE CONSORT · 14-09-2005, 05:16 PM

The suppliers of the LPG kits will tell you that they will run no problem, the older Volvo's will not run LPG as it burns the valves out, The cost of fitting what appears to be a simple kit is quite high, usually a lot more than they tell you when you inquire. The fitting of the LPG tank is a problem in a sports boat unless you want to remove your fuel tank to accomodate you also have to start on petrol and switch to gas when the engine is warm so you still need a fuel tank especially as LPG is not as readily available as it was five years ago.

The engine will burn 10% more fuel, produce 10% less power & you can only use 80% of the LPG tanks capacity.

Approx cost of single engine conversion £ 2,500 - £ 3,000. which will buy a lot of petrol, and save you the trouble of all that soddin around to turn your boat into a potential floating bomb.

Silversurfer · 14-09-2005, 10:55 PM

Thanks I will take that as a forget that idea then!