LPG conversion for EL wagon - pros and cons

[Way2go]

I'm looking at getting an LPG conversion done on our recently purchased EL Fairmont wagon, and was wondering what any of you have fitted in terms of systems, etc., and if anyone had experienced any real problems with such a setup. I'm looking at a system that always starts on petrol then converts to gas, so I expect that the tales of cold starting problems are usually avoided this way, but I'm notsure how many other problems you hear about are simply that (hearsay) or if there is any substance to them.

I've had 2 different quotes, one for an Impco system ($2920), the other for an OMVL system $2500). Is there really any difference between these 2 manufacturers and their systems? Which is better and why?

Also been hearing about this 'gas vapour injection' that is the newest technology around. One lot has said it can't be fitted to the EL 4.0, while another said he thought it could be but was another $1000. Is there really any benefit of this system - better fuel economy, less problems, etc.?

Looking forward to your responses.

[ilsautomotive]

Your question about gas injection is timely, as I just got this response today after making enquiries. It seems there may be more waiting yet:

Hi Jack,

Thanks for your enquiry; unfortunately at the moment we do not have any retail product available. I have largely completed the research and beta testing, and am at the commercialisation stage. I am actively seeking investors to assist with the commercialisation of the product. Once I can organise the funding, we will have commercial product available in 12 - 18 months. You may not be able to invest personally, but you may know someone who can. If you have any contacts for investment, I would be pleased to receive the information.

We have a prototype turbocharged car that has been a daily driver for 4 years. We are currently restricted to 35kW per injector.

Best Regards

Bill Campbell
Gas Injection Technologies Pty Ltd.
Ph: +61 2 9720 1119
Email: bill@gas-injection.com

Personally I am a fan of dedicated gas as there is a lot of unnecessary weight/complexity in running 2 fuel systems. The spare tyre would be relocated to accomodate a tank. I had an EL wagon with the Tickford dual fuel set-up and it used a scuba-style tank. In order to compare prices, you'd need to ask exactly what each set-up would include.

[BuuBox]

Impco is a fairly well established brand, however it all comes down to the tuning and installation. If it's poorly tuned, runs rough and chews through the fuel, you might as well have stuck with unleaded.

The bottom line is that you'll use more LPG compared to Unleaded to make slightly less power, and that dual fuel is always a compromise. The trick is to go to an reputable installer, and a proper dyno tune always helps. I think Niko just got a system installed, and it pretty happy with it, so maybe a PM is in order... Unless he sees this thread first

Another option is to simply find a car for sale that's already on gas...