LPG conversion (older Ford,3.0L V6)

[fhorst]

We bought "new" car, 19 year old Ford escape.
While we like the car, it's thirsty.
About 10km per L of 95.

Time for LPG.

Pricing seems to go from almost nothing (online forums, start 12.000 THB) to real life price offers of 35.000 THB.

I looked at the brands that shop was using, the standard "China" brands.
Pricing for "top China quality" is 11.000 excluding Toroidal Cylinder. (About 5-6000 THB)

Adding some additional parts that might be needed, 20.000 on parts should be highly sufficient.

Now this offer of 35.000 didn't include registration at the transport office (!)
(What due burocracy takes atleast 1/2 day waiting at the transport office)

Installation time 6 to 8 hours, for highly skilled engineer probably 4-5.
"Hobby installer" (as most workers in a Thai garage/ workshop, no official training as mechanic) perhaps a day and a half.

So take it to the top, 15 hours, or.. 1000 THB per hour (??)

I'm getting a bit confused here.

It ain't rocket science, and if one works meticulous, accurate and precise, not much can go wrong.

My experience with local workshops / garages...
Simple things as tightening battery terminals is already too much to ask for.

While that was an easy DIY fix, worn cables from sensors because they weren't tugged away safely, not using the intended clips, or sliced tubing due too tight hose clamps, that's an other thing.

I'm sure we alll have our share of stories where Thai "Professional" lack even the most basic skills that even an apprentice would have in the west.

Where does this 15.000 installation cost come from?
They see farang and $$$$?

Probably need to check their work anyway before it's safe to use.

There are enough stories about LPG cowboys who install cheap...
And cars are exploding.
As those installations passed the inspection and got certified......

Gives enough reason for me to not thrust their judgement!

Besides...
It ain't rocket science, with water and dish soap leaks are easy spotted
viewtopic.php?t=6958

Brother in law made installation.
If I understand correctly he didn't work meticulous, accurate and precise...
As OP would not recommend to use him as installer 555...

I've been driving LPG almost 30 years now, and almost always happy about it.

35.000 THB is not a lot of money and short time ROI.

With 15-20.000km per year,
LPG =14 THB
95 = 40 THB
20K km @ 95 gashol is +/- 80.000 THB (1 to 10km)
20K km @ LPG about 35.000 THB (1 to 8km)

Yet, paying 1000 THB per hour installation fee...
That doesn't feel right.

What am I missing here?

I suppose the 35.000 THB should atleast include the registration at the land office, and probably the usage of a car while ours is at their shop.

Or not?

[parrot]

If I was going to modify my car (19years old) to LPG, I'd suck it up and pay for a respectable mechanic. I'd still opt to wear a nomex suit when I go out for a drive.

[fhorst]

And there you hit the nail on the head.

"Respectable Mechanic"

Are there respectable mechanics in Udon Thani?

I don't mind paying 35.000 for installation.
Not even if it's 15.000 wages for a days work.
But I do need guarantee that it's good.

Respectable Mechanic...
Right.
Absolutely.

I'm open for suggestions!!

What I have experienced so far at 5 different workshops is to cry.
Stoned or drunk or both...
So sluggish, rookie mistakes and no accountability.

So if you happen to know one that fits the description of respectable professional LPG mechanic, please do met me know!!

I hate to play Russian roulette with my car (and life of family and me)

[Khun Paul]

When this initially raised its head a fews years ago I made enquires as to the availability and whether it would harm my current vehicle a 2.8 turbo Mitsu 4x4 built 2001 in Japan .
It could be done, BUT the metallic make up of the engine was such converesion although possible would mean a hotter engine and slow but sure destruction of the engine internally. .
Now some years later, my mileage has gone down due to change of lifestyle and my engine still purrs along with no loss of anything .
Modern engine have a different metal mix so I am told , so LPG or Gas etc, will not harm it so they say.
By the way my conversion way back was nearly 30 k. guaranteed .
As I get older and need the car less, my driving years will pass long before I make any substantial savings from converting I can tell.

[bluejets]

Just be aware the moment one tends to use "cheaper" alternatives, government tends to jump on the bandwagon and " seal the gap" so to speak.
Happened down in Aus maybe 15-20 years ago where gov offered almost free gas installs.
Those that took it up only enjoyed the sunshine for maybe 6-12 months, then the gates closed.