LPG Mower - Frequently Asked Questions

Can diesel machines be converted to LPG?

No. Only petrol spark ignition engines can be converted to gas but factory fitted LPG models are available from Ransomes Jacobsen.

Are gas-powered lawnmowers safe?

20,000 forklift trucks and nearly 100,000 UK vehicles, not to mention 1.5 million Italian road vehicles, are already using technologies similar to that used on gas lawnmowers and have an excellent safety record. Furthermore, the 100 per cent discount from London Congestion Charge for the cleanest LPG Vehicles demonstrates LPG's lessened environmental impact.

Can mowers be refuelled with LPG away from the depot?

No. Unlike petrol, propane cannot be carried in containers. In view of this, the conversion kits are developed with a tank large enough to provide an average day’s work. [Consult your converter.]

What happens if the mower runs out of fuel?

A fuel gauge is conveniently located on the refillable tank. By refilling tanks each evening on return to the depot will prevent run-outs.

How is the machine refuelled?

A refillable fuel tank is purchased as part of the conversion. In turn this is refuelled by a larger Calor bulk storage tank and dispense pump which is situated at your depot. Installing a bulk tank also means that you can run other LPG equipment such as fleet vans.

What are the requirements with regard to locating the Calor bulk storage tank?

It would be advisable for you to contact Calor prior to ordering their ground care equipment to assess site suitability of the bulk storage tank.

The site must be a minimum distance from a building or boundary, dependent upon the size of the tank. This is 3 metres in the case of the 2000 litre tank. You will also be required to provide a concrete base for the siting of the tank. The Calor sales Consultant will advise you on the best location when he visits you.

How do I know how much gas is in the large bulk storage tank?

There is a gauge under the cover of the bulk tank. The fitter will explain how to read it, as well as how to fill the onboard mower tank. You then have the option of keeping an eye on the bulk tank gauge and ringing Calor when you want the tank refilled. Alternatively, Calor will offer to fill your tank on a regular basis.

How long will it take to get a bulk tank on my premises?

It normally takes about six weeks from the date of lawnmower purchase to install a tank at your premises. [Subject to planning.]

How does the performance compare to petrol lawnmowers?

There is no perceptible difference between a gas lawnmower and a petrol lawnmower.

How safe is liquid gas compared with petrol?

With over 40 years use in the automotive industry, gas is very safe. The gas is stored in approved tanks conforming to British Standards and the tanks and conversion systems have various safety features built in to eliminate any potential problems. If you turn the scenario around and if gas was the normal fuel used and all of a sudden petrol was the alternative, how safe would you think petrol is, highly flammable, stored in plastic containers, and poured adjacent to hot engines when refuelling.

How long will the refillable gas tank last before it needs to be replaced?

The tank will need to be replaced after 10 years. It will require a yearly visual check on the valves and fittings.

Is the warranty affected on the engine?

No

Will it reduce my service intervals?

Gas can reduce service intervals. The gas burns a lot cleaner than petrol, hence engine oil and spark plugs last longer. It is recommended though that the manufacturer service schedule be kept to.

Do my operators need any formal training?

The operators will receive training in the conversion system and how to start the machine. They will also receive training in refuelling the machines.

Where can we refuel this type of machine?

The machine if fitted with a refillable LPG tank, will require a bulk LPG tank onsite. This would normally consist of a 2000 litre tank and electric pump. The siting of this tank would have to be confirmed by Calor.

What cost savings can I expect running machines on gas?

With Calor at 29pl against the current petrol price of approximately 69 ppl, the figures speak for themselves. A more detailed analysis of potential savings can be supplied.

Are there any grants available to encourage me to use gas power?

There are no grants available to use gas power on ground care equipment.

Does it affect the power output of the machine?

There will be no noticeable difference.

Is the fuel consumption higher?

From field test carried out, the fuel consumption is similar to that of petrol.

What are the comparative emissions to petrol and diesel?

LPG compared to petrol and diesel is approximately 70% cleaner over CO2, HC. Particulates are not prevalent in LPG.

How long will LPG remain a cheaper fuel source?

LPG will remain a cheaper fuel source for the foreseeable future. When used as an off road fuel there is no road tax fuel duty to pay, unlike petrol and diesel.

Can the machines be used with portable bottled gas?

If there is room to mount a bottled gas they can be used. The cost would be higher for bottled gas against bulk storage and there could be a limit to the running time of the machine dependent on cylinder size.

Would the ambient temperature affect my ability to refuel the mower tank fully?

The ambient temperature will not affect refuelling. The tanks on the machine are fitted with automatic stop fill valves, so a full tank will be achieved every time.