Propane Powered Outboards

[Ray Bowles]

I was reading a post on propane powered generators and they also mentioned propane powered outboards. Has anyone heard about these or conversion kits to do this on 4 stroke motors? I would do this in a heartbeat as fuel is hard to find in our area. During the summer there is no problem but the rest of the time only 85/15 can be found.
Thank you for the help.
Ray

 

[Forrest15112]

Here are two links for generator conversion kits. They both sell similar kits and parts. One type is more permanent and requires you drill a hole into the carburetor, and the other is an adapter that mounts between the carburetor and the air filter. If you call them with the dimensions of the carburetor opening and spacing of the mounting screws, they may be able to hook you up with an adapter. I went this route because it has no affect on the ability to run gasoline in it. You can certainly do the drilled method.
I think my generator runs better on NG than gasoline and if I had a 4 stroke outboard, I wouldn't hesitate to do this.
http://www.propane-generators.com/
http://www.propanecarbs.com/methods.html

 

[KD3PC]

big difference in plumbing a stationary generator....and a moving twisting/up and down outboard, plus you still have to have an adequate locker for the propane tank..and safety shutoff gear

Keep us posted as to what you learn and do.

 

[WayneH]

Here's one I know about.

http://wlbutts.multiply.com/photos/album/20/PROPANE_OUTBOARD_PROJECT

And a follow up correction to problem found during sailing.

http://bbs.trailersailor.com/forums/tsarchives24/index.cgi?read=742745,Propane

This project was done by "Bill_from_Louisiana" on the sister board http://www.trailersailor.com/

He would be a great source to ask your questions.

 

[Benny17441]

If you have a proper propane gas installation I guess the main concern would be the ability of these aftermarket components to operate safely in a marine environment. They would be subject to corrosion, vibration and shock forces. An outboard sits outside the transom so the main concern about a propane leak would be fire. A shutoff valve would control the fire but the engine could be rendered useless and if the operator was sitting to close to the engine he or she may suffer burns. The only way to qualify these conversions for marine use applications would be through a testing program covering the performance of a number of units over a period of time being subjected to rigorous conditions. Until then we are on our own. It would be nice to just jump on the dink with a 1lb propane bottle and hook it up to the fuel hose and take off, but not there yet.

 

[Ray Bowles]

Thank you all for the help. The web addresses really help. I was wondering if there was anything already worked out but I think with this info it should not be to hard to rig up. My BIL owns a propane retail business so guess who gets tapped on. Again, thanks and I will re-post as we work it through.
Ray

 

[flynfol]

My neighbor has a propane weed wacker......(uses a vacuum break regulator)..works great. Uses 1 lb. tanks. I converted my standby onan generator to propane.(uses a 12vdc solenoid shutoff)....gas doesn't go bad. Runs cleaner......once dialed in. Your engine will not make as much horsepower though. Been looking into running my 650 watt Honda genny on propane.....it sits for long periods without running. I would be more concerned with finding propane out and about and the fact propane does not have the btu value of gasoline. Vaporization on 1 lb. bottles in cool weather could be an issue. Flexible fuel lines take care of the movement issue. But overall should work. But like Benny mentioned.....do you want to be the test subject out on a dark a stormy night:cry:

 

[Stuff4Toys]

Keeeeeep your eyes open FRIDAY February 17th we will be showing off a new product line that will please all.