Are you looking to enhance your power supply while reducing your reliance on traditional petrol? Converting your petrol generator to a gas-powered one might be the solution you’ve been seeking. While it may seem like a daunting task for the uninitiated, with the right guidance and precautions, this transformation can be both safe and rewarding. In this comprehensive feature, we will walk you through the process, step by step, ensuring that you have all the information you need to convert your generator and tap into the benefits of gas power.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety
Before delving into the conversion process, it is crucial to address the potential hazards associated with gas-powered generators. Understanding the risks and implementing safety measures is paramount. By following expert advice and using commercially available conversion kits equipped with safety mechanisms, you can significantly minimize the chances of accidents. Additionally, always operate your generator in well-ventilated areas, such as outdoors or on a spacious driveway. Prioritizing safety from the outset will provide peace of mind throughout the conversion process.
Step 2: Selecting the Right Carburetor
To embark on your journey of converting your petrol generator to gas, you will need a suitable carburetor. It is advisable to utilize an old carburetor specifically designated for this purpose, as it cannot be repurposed for other applications. Opting for an old generator allows you to have two separate carburetors, one for petrol and the other for gas, providing flexibility in fuel options. In the event of any mishap, you can always switch back to petrol, ensuring uninterrupted power supply.
Step 3: Removal of Needle Valve and Float
Begin the transformation by removing the bowl of the carburetor. Unscrewing the bottom of the bowl allows easy access to the spring and needle valve, which are typically connected. In most carburetors, these components can be detached effortlessly.
Step 4: Eliminating the Butterfly Valve
Continuing the conversion process, focus on removing the butterfly valve. By unscrewing the small screw on the valve plate, the butterfly valve can be detached, paving the way for further modifications.
Step 5: Mixture Screw and Idle Removal
To proceed, extract the mixture screws jets and the idle component from the carburetor. Replacing them with a new needle will enable precise control over the motor’s RPM (revolutions per minute).
Step 6: Drilling the Jet Hole Plate Cover
Prepare the carburetor for the gas conversion by carefully drilling a hole in the cover. Exercise caution during this step, ensuring that the drill penetrates only the small aluminum cover.
Step 7: Primer Bulb Removal
Removing the primer bulb is the subsequent task at hand. A firm pull on the bulb should suffice in detaching it. Note that in some cases, a small retaining ring may need to be pried out before the bulb can be removed. In rare instances, rusted parts may cause the bulb to pop out from its base.
Step 8: Venturi Jet Removal
In order to proceed with the modifications, the venturi jet must be removed. This can be achieved by inserting a screw into the bottom and gently pulling it out. The assembled jet will eventually disengage, facilitating further adjustments.
Step 9: Thorough Cleaning
Before moving forward, it is crucial to thoroughly clean the entire carburetor. Utilizing a Dremel tool or a carburetor cleaner will effectively remove any residue or impurities.
Step 10: Drilling the Venturi Port
In this step, carefully drill the venturi port, which will serve as the entry point for the tube that will be installed later. Take care to drill straight and ensure all metal shavings are completely removed from the carburetor. It is advisable to use a chemical cleaner to thoroughly clean the carburetor after drilling.
Step 11: Sealing for Optimal Performance
Proper sealing is essential to prevent any gas leaks and ensure optimal performance of your newly converted generator. Seal up the holes and jets using black ATV silicone, known for its heat resistance and reliable sealing properties. Be sure to seal the primer bulb hole and the vacuum control hole as well, leaving no room for potential issues.
Step 12: Introducing the New Venturi Tube Parts
For the next stage, you will require a regulator, which can be sourced from any BBQ grill. Reduce the connection in the regulator to a diameter of 6-7 millimeters, as it will be responsible for controlling the gas flow. Additionally, obtain tubes measuring approximately 15 centimeters in length and 6-7 millimeters in diameter for the subsequent steps.
Step 13: Assembling the New Venturi Tubes
To create the new venturi tube, take a 6-7 millimeters copper tubing measuring around 7-8 centimeters in length. After cutting the tubing, ensure that all edges are deburred, both inside and outside. This step will guarantee optimal performance and a secure fit.
Step 14: Venturi Assembly with Precision
With the necessary components prepared, proceed to assemble the venturi. Utilize Teflon tape to ensure a tight seal, preventing any gas leakage. Additionally, employ another piece of 7 millimeters tube to complete the assembly.
Step 15: Bringing It All Together
Now that you have completed the various modifications, it’s time to put everything together into one carburetor unit. Before running your generator, thorough testing is necessary to ensure all components are functioning as intended.
Step 16: Final Assembly and Adjustment
Mount the fully assembled carburetor onto the motor of your generator, using a gasket between the carburetor and the manifold for a secure fit. Once the gas regulator line is properly connected, attach the gas tank to your newly converted generator. Take the time to adjust the needle valve to achieve the optimal running speed for your energy needs.
Harnessing the Power of Natural Gas
By following these comprehensive steps, you have successfully converted your petrol generator into a natural gas-powered one. The advantages of using natural gas, including cleaner emissions and increased convenience in fuel storage, make this conversion a worthwhile endeavor. Embrace the benefits of a more sustainable and efficient power source as you enjoy the reliable performance of your newly transformed generator.
