?’s About Propane [Archive] - Diesel Place : Chevrolet and GMC Diesel Truck Forums

: ?’s About Propane


Tank
01-17-2004, 06:01 PM
I know this has been covered because I ran a search, but my questions weren't really answered. So I have a few questions about Propane systems. Here goes, will I see increased fuel economy?, will I be able to go longer between fill ups?, will I save money even having to fill the propane tank if I use the propane just marginally around town and on the freeway? and also how hard is the install and the setup for trying to get the propane injection set just right to be used for added fuel economy? I know the added HP is a plus but I am looking for economy mostly, so I want to be able to run it most of the time maybe without injecting all that much.


Also sence I have the intake and programer, if I add the propane I know I will need the exhaust so who makes a kit with the complete 4" downpipe and all.

problemchild
01-17-2004, 10:26 PM
The guy down the street from me was running propane. Blown motor and dealer said they knew he was running propane too. They can detect it.

PEANUTGRWR
01-17-2004, 11:41 PM
The guy down the street from me was running propane. Blown motor and dealer said they knew he was running propane too. They can detect it.


NOT IF YOU CHANGE YOUR OIL AND REMOVE YOUR SYSTEM BEFORE SERVICE--------------IVE BEEN TOLD OF COURSEhttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Cool.gif

Tank
01-18-2004, 12:37 PM
Well I'm not looking for HP#'s and a blown motor, I just want a little better economy so I can go longer between fill ups.

Mackin
01-18-2004, 04:51 PM
Tank


I have a Power Shot Propane setup on my truck but don't have a lot of run time on it to report in econo mode ...


Propane is fuel whether or not you will actually gain in fuel econo I'm not sure once you figure in the cost of the propane ...


Propane is not an easy system to disguise if you have warranty concerns .... You'll have a sizable tank, couple hoses running into engine compartment and some wires for switches ... Not saying it cant be done as my tank is removable switches are concealed and hoses, well lets just say the aren't obvious ...


IMO you are looking for something conservative easy and safe as possible for longevity for your Duramax ....


Look to one of the plug and play and or a programmer boxes.... Simple and easily removed .... Some have reported gains in fuel economy but this lies in your ability to use the lower power levels and resist temptation to develop a heavy foot ...


Good luck





Mac Edited by: Mackin

Terry
01-18-2004, 11:02 PM
Well I'm not looking for HP#'s and a blown motor, I just want a little better economy so I can go longer between fill ups.

Just my opinion, but if you're REALLY looking to go
longer between fillups, then install a larger fuel tank.
Search this site - theres several different brands
in use by the members here.

I understand about fuel economy though, but I
dont think you'll see any big mpg improvements
going down this (propane) path.

Again, just my opinion...

good luck,

T.

Shainer
01-18-2004, 11:19 PM
Tank-
I'd forgo the propane route. The expense of the system, warranty issues, its just not worth it. I'd get an auxiliary fuel tank. This is what Gale Banks has to say about it.


http://www.bankspower.com/Tech_QuizzesGaleBanks.cfm


<B class=parahdr>Ford-Diesel.com:[/B] What is your view on the use of propane with late-model diesels like the Power Stroke?

Gale Banks: The question of propane relates to the question before it, about the over-and-above levels of power. Propane is a quick—though somewhat costly—way to make a lot of horsepower. We have tested various systems that are available on the market, and have had some startling revelations. The most troubling was the occurrence of detonation while operating a diesel with propane injection (peak cylinder pressure/temperature is erratic, excessive and occurring at the wrong time.) Detonation is not good for any engine, but when it is present on a diesel, it is something to be really concerned about. Part of the problem is that the technology that is used for propane regulation vs. engine load is adapted from old carbureted forklift systems, dressed up to look trick. It is designed to be used on engines with a throttle butterfly and vacuum in the intake manifold, neither of which exists on a diesel. Another troubling aspect of propane is how it impacts fuel economy. The addition of propane will reduce the usage of diesel fuel to produce an equal amount of horsepower, but the cost of the propane must be accounted for. I have yet to hear someone explain to me in a reasonable fashion how they figure in the cost of the propane when they are calculating their fuel consumption and cost. Until we see the ultimate all-around benefit of propane, we are not anxious to engineer a system. We are interested in improving the operating efficiency of the engine by optimizing airflow, and propane, being an auxiliary fuel, doesn’t really meet our criteria as an efficiency improver.


Hope this helps!