How to Convert a Gasoline Car to Natural Gas?
2 Answers
There are two types of equipment available for converting to natural gas. The first type is single-point (also known as mixed injection in some regions), suitable for converting microvans and similar vehicles. The second type is multi-point (also called direct injection), which includes equipment such as a pressure reducer and ECU, making it suitable for most vehicle models currently on the market and more fuel-efficient. Below are the details of these two conversion methods: Single-point: Single-point conversion involves installing a mixer in the vehicle. The natural gas mixes with air through the pressure reducer and then enters the engine combustion chamber via the intake manifold, which is an external mixture process. Multi-point: Multi-point conversion involves drilling a hole in each intake manifold and installing injectors. The pressure-reduced natural gas is directly injected into the engine combustion chamber under computer control, which is an internal direct injection process.
I once converted my gasoline car to run on natural gas, which was quite an interesting experience. The conversion process mainly involves several steps: first, find a certified conversion shop to assess whether the car is suitable for conversion—don't attempt it yourself. Then, install a high-pressure gas tank in the trunk, ensuring there's enough space so it doesn’t interfere with luggage storage. Next, modify the engine system by adding a gas injection system and an electronic control unit, properly adjusting the ignition timing. Finally, perform debugging to ensure smooth switching between gas and fuel and test for stable power output. After the conversion, the car felt slightly less powerful but was much more fuel-efficient, saving me about 200-300 yuan per month on fuel costs. However, safety is crucial—regularly check the tank’s seals and valves to prevent leaks or explosions. It’s advisable to choose an experienced shop, with costs around 10,000 yuan—don’t cut corners to avoid issues. Overall, the conversion makes the car more economical and reduces emissions, which is better for the environment.
