6-4
Fuel Consumption
See Section
2.
General Specifications
in this manu-
al.
Propane Fuel Lines and Supply Tank
Review each of the codes that apply to LPG genset
installation. Refer to paragraph 2-11 (LP-Gas En-
gine Fuel Installations) of NFPA Pamphlet 501C
and paragraph 3-6.2.5 of NFPA 58 (Piping, Hose,
and Fittings). These sections deal with fuel tanks
and lines, but do not cover all applicable codes and
regulations. Obtain this literature by writing to the
address listed in the beginning of this manual.
When installing the fuel lines, keep the following in
mind:
1. Install all propane fuel lines so they are acces-
sible, yet protected from damage.
2. Use metal straps without sharp edges to se-
cure fuel lines.
3. Keep fuel lines away from hot engine or ex-
haust areas.
4. Do NOT run fuel lines in conjunction with elec-
trical wiring.
Most LPG liquid withdrawal gensets are designed
to share the vehicle propane fuel supply tank(s).
The vehicle propane fuel supply tank MUST have a
dip tube for liquid withdrawal.
An excess flow valve MUST be mounted internal to
the propane fuel supply tank(s) per NFPA 501C,
Paragraph 2-2.7.7. This excess flow valve and pro-
pane fuel lines MUST be sized so the excess flow
valve will close with a completely severed (broken)
propane fuel line. For operation at the lowest ambi-
ent temperature, a valve rated at 2.6 gallons per
hour (9.9 l/hr) flow rate and 6.5 pounds per square
inch (45 kPa) differential pressure is recom-
mended. Consult the Natural LP Gas Association
for the limitations of excess flow valves.
Install an approved flexible non-metallic, non-con-
ductive, and non-organic fuel line between the ve-
hicle fuel system and the genset to absorb vibration.
Onan recommends using a seamless steel tubing
and flared connections for long runs between the
fuel tank and the genset location. A short length of
the flexible fuel line should be used to complete the
connection between the end of the steel tubing and
the genset itself.
A manual shut-off valve MUST be mounted on the
propane fuel supply tank. This supply valve MUST
be fully open when operating the genset to ensure
the excess flow valve will close with a severed (bro-
ken) propane fuel line.
A hydrostatic pressure relief valve MUST be
installed between the propane fuel supply tank
manual shut-off valve and the propane fuel solenoid
valve and filter assembly. This relief valve protects
the propane fuel line from pressure buildup if both
the supply tank manual shut-off valve and the fuel
solenoid valve are closed at the same time.
Testing Fuel System for Leaks
The completed propane fuel system installation
MUST be checked and tested for leaks before the
genset is operated. The fuel solenoid valve MUST
be energized from a separate 12-volt DC source be-
fore testing the fuel system for leaks. The test
MUST conform to procedures listed in NFPA-58,
Paragraph 318, or NCTI (US Testing) recom-
mended test procedure as follows:
After assembly and prior to initial operations, all
fuel system connections, hose, valves, regula-
tors, and fittings must be tested and proven free
of any leaks using a soap and water or equiva-
lent solution while the system is under a gas or
air pressure of not less than 90 pounds per
square inch (620 kPa).
Other approved methods of detecting leaks may be
used if appropriate. Test shall NOT be made with a
flame.
WARNING
Liquid LPG fuel presents the hazard
of explosion or fire which can result in severe
personal injury or death. Do not smoke or allow
any spark, pilot light, arcing switch or equip-
ment, or other ignition sources in the installa-
tion area or areas sharing ventilation.
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