Troubleshooting your Tri-Fuel Carburetor
The Tri-Fuel Carburetor, offering not only dual but three fuel options, has gained significant traction within Nigeria of late. This is because of the increased costs of Petrol for running Generators. Almost every small business makes use of a standby generator as an alternative source of power supply, due to the epileptic power supply in the country. This innovative marvel enables users to harness three distinct fuel sources to power their Electric Generators. Offering three different fuel options: Gasoline (referred to as Petrol in Nigeria), Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), also known as Propane or Cooking Gas, this carburetor ensures unparalleled adaptability and convenience in generator operations.
Advantages of LPG and CNG-Powered Generators
Environmental Benefits: Generators fueled by propane present a cleaner, greener alternative, emitting fewer harmful fumes into the atmosphere. Unlike their petrol counterparts, which often emit noxious odors and can leave unsightly marks, propane generators operate with minimal environmental impact.
Cost Efficiency Redefined: The cost-effectiveness of LPG/CNG usage compared to petrol is remarkable, resulting in substantial long-term savings. Also, LPG s quite efficient which contributes to prolonged generator life while minimizing maintenance expenses. The reduced carbon emissions translate to a cleaner carburetor and engine, fostering durability and resilience.
Safety Assured: Opting for LPG or CNG ushers in heightened safety. Eliminating the need for manual refueling significantly curtails the risk of fire accidents. Propane’s inherent characteristics render it less prone to combustion accidents, offering a more secure power solution.
Engine Longevity: LPG’s cleaner combustion spares engine components from damage, a marked departure from the wear and tear inflicted by traditional petrol usage.
The Tri-Fuel Carburetor comes in two variants:
Medium-Sized Generators (GX160 and GX200 Series): Engineered to empower generators within the 2–4.5kVA range, this carburetor variant facilitates seamless tri-fuel operation for enhanced efficiency.
Large-Sized Generators (GX390 Series): Designed to fuel generators ranging from 5kVA to 12kVA, this robust variant extends the tri-fuel prowess to larger power requirements, without compromising performance
I recently purchased and installed this carburetor and I had some chalenges while tuning the carburetor for optimal performance. This has prompted me to write an article on it for future reference, as well as for other people who might be experiencing similar challenges.
Troubleshooting the Tri Fuel Carburetor
Problem 1 — Generator Fails to Start
Gas Flow Check: First, make sure that gas is flowing to the generator. Disconnect the hose and turn on the gas from the regulator to see if it’s flowing.
Gas Pressure: Sometimes, gas might be flowing, but not at the right pressure. Listen for the gas flow sound to make sure it’s at the correct level.
Regulator Rating: Check the regulator to ensure it’s the right one. The best regulator for the tri-fuel carburetor should have a rating between 28 to 30mbar. Some regulators might not work well and could release too much gas to the generator.
Petrol Leak: If there’s a leak from the petrol tap, it could be stopping the generator from starting. To fix this, run the generator on petrol until it stops, then switch to gas after disconnecting the hose from the petrol tap.
Gas Cylinder Level: Make sure there’s enough gas in the cylinder. Low gas levels might not create enough pressure to start the generator.
Problem 2 — Generator Shaking After Installing Tri-Fuel
Run Time: Let the generator run for at least 10 minutes and see if the shaking stops.
Regulator Check: Ensure you’re using the correct regulator with a rating of 28 to 30mbar.
Throttle Spring: Check if the spring connected to the throttle is in good condition. A damaged spring could cause shaking.
Adjustment Screw: There’s a screw near the throttle; adjust it while the generator is running until the shaking goes away.
Problem 3 — Generator Acting Up After Tri-Fuel Installation
Air in Cylinder: If there’s too much air in the gas cylinder, replace the cylinder and consider your gas source.
Switch Setting: Verify the orange switch on the dual fuel carburetor. Make sure it’s set correctly based on your fuel choice (LPG or CNG).
Problem 4 — Generator Using Too Much Gas
Regulator Check: Make sure you’re using the right regulator (28 to 30mbar).
Gasket Condition: Check the gaskets during installation. Replace any worn-out gaskets to prevent leaks.
Switch Setting: Review the orange switch on the dual fuel carburetor. Ensure it’s set correctly to match your fuel choice.
Problem 5 — Manual Choke Issues on Strong Generators
Choke Replacement: If your generator has a manual choke, you can replace it. Unscrew the solenoid valve screw on both the generator’s carburetor and the new one, then swap the chokes.
Automatic Choke Option: Alternatively, you can get an automatic choke from a reliable parts supplier. It might need some adjustments for proper installation. An automatic choke helps with valve closure, essential for proper generator function.
The solutions mentioned above might not be exhaustive enough to help you fix your generator problems, so it is best for you to contact a generator mechanic to assist you in fixing these issues. Have you encountered any other problem with this Tri-fuel carburetor which was not mentioned above, or do you know of any other solutions to common problems with this equipment, please comment below. Thank you.
