Low cost portable diesel generators

[HTRN]

LPG mixers for 4 cylinder sized motors are easy to find - I betcha Impco makes a suitable model.

I am pretty sure that LPG conversions run on liquid, rather than vapor, so running them off of barbecue tanks isn't going to work too well(you can flip 'em upside down, but then, it's not the safest of ideas). Normally, I would say stock up on Forklift tanks.


HTRN

[Dedicated_Dad]

I was thinking small-engine - like my portable 6kw...

DD

[HTRN]

An Impco 55 would probably work. They can be had with as small as 1" SAE flange.


HTRN

[Dedicated_Dad]

Thanks!

Question -- while we're on the topic -- is there any reason that a generator couldn't be permanently mounted in my garage, PROVIDED I plumbed combustion-air-intake and exhaust out through the wall?

DD

[Netpackrat]

Question -- while we're on the topic -- is there any reason that a generator couldn't be permanently mounted in my garage, PROVIDED I plumbed combustion-air-intake and exhaust out through the wall?

This guy initially had his generator in his garage, but later built a dedicated power house for it.

[blackeagle603]

NPR,
that link was practically a blackhole. I dropped in and didn't even WANT to come out. Good stuff. That guy does real sanitary work.

Now to get one running on wood gas.

[Netpackrat]

I really enjoyed reading it too, but it does seem like a lot of effort just to have backup power. Although, it looks like he saved quite a bit over an equivalent commercial setup.

[ButchS1066]

I enjoyed it as well, and growing up in Florida I completely understand why he went to the trouble. I have to say his experiences with the motor remind me of why I don't buy equipment from Harbor Freight.

[HTRN]

I really enjoyed reading it too, but it does seem like a lot of effort just to have backup power. Although, it looks like he saved quite a bit over an equivalent commercial setup.

I wonder how much those listers are? Because Surplus center has 50Hp Cat Diesels for 3300. Considering that a 40Kw ST gen head is a grand on ebay.. Being equipped with a starter motor, with some knowledge of electromechanical systems, you could build your own autostart.

I'm guessing he's a pilot, and has Jet-A around. Otherwise, why would you use it? Personally, I would have bought a brand new 300 gallon heating oil tank, and then fill it with #2. Cheaper and easier.

The most interesting part was the bit about frequency management. I wonder how the Standby generator manufacturers do it?


HTRN

[Netpackrat]

I'm guessing he's a pilot, and has Jet-A around. Otherwise, why would you use it? Personally, I would have bought a brand new 300 gallon heating oil tank, and then fill it with #2. Cheaper and easier.

Judging by his domain name, I'd say its safe to assume he is building an F1 Rocket. No telling what else he is flying or working on. He's probably running jet fuel for the same reason I sometimes run 100LL avgas in my truck; if you have to drain fuel from aircraft tanks, it is usually bad form to later refuel an aircraft with it, since it is considered contaminated.