LNG conversion

[Lucky Penny]

OK, I know the technical aspects of this topic, but my question is for the Gru's.....Is it legal to install an LNG (or Propane) conversion in a boat? I fully realize that venting and keeping the engine compartment well vented are a no brainer, and all things being equal very doable.

I guess people know the reason of the question is the current; and increasing cost of fuel.

Thanks

 

[Bondo]

Re: LNG conversion

Is it legal to install an LNG (or Propane) conversion in a boat?

Ayuh,..... I Guess you should be asking this question to the Coast Guard,....

I've never seen anything from them about the legality of it.....
Matter of Fact,.... I've never even seen it mentioned....

 

[Lucky Penny]

Re: LNG conversion

I have poured over the USCG reg's on fuel systems, and even looked at the regs covering LNG (Propane) stoves. Nothing, not even addressed.
I did do some research and found a forced air vent pump that comes right off the crank pully. So if the engine is running the engine compartment is being vented. It draws outside air in and vents overboard. I also found a carb convert plate that contains a thero-coupling prevent the LNG valve from opening until the engine is up to operating temp.

considering the low speeds I normal cruise at, it just seems like a alternate source of fuel. Burns cleaner, cost less, and available.

 

[Coors]

Re: LNG conversion

where would you put that round tank?

 

[Robj]

Re: LNG conversion

How are you going to do a LNG conversion? You require special cyrogenic tanks. etc. Westport Innovations have diesel engines that run on LNG, and it is a complex system. I think you would be looking at CNG, which is more doable. But do not know the legalities for a boat. I think gas is a safer option.

Have a great day,


Rob.

 

[Lucky Penny]

Re: LNG conversion

Unless the CG says otherwise, the tanks and gas lines would be installed as if for cooking. That part is pretty well layed out and specification for the lines, valves and location are addressed.

believe me, I have not intention of making a monster that will leave a big, round, smoking hole in the water.

 

[Bondo]

Re: LNG conversion

the tanks and gas lines would be installed as if for cooking.

Ayuh,....

On every Propane/ NG conversion I've seen uses the Liquid gas....
So,...
Atleast the Tanks are Very Different......

 

[Lucky Penny]

Re: LNG conversion

I stand corrected. I should not have used the term LNG. I should have made my reference Propane, or natural gas.

Regardless, in view of the fact the the CG has not address this alternate fuel for boats, how do you think it would be received? I know how they feel about anthing automotive installed aboard boats, but this fuel has proven itself, is by far less expensive, burns 20x cleaner than convential gas. And for guys like me that rarely throttle up past 2800RMP. I can firewall it at 4650, but why?
Between the cost of fuel, and this new EPA ruling, pleasure boats will be a thing of the past, coming off the line straight to the breakers yard.