General Information
Caution: The propane fuel system requires special tools to make repairs. Service and repair of the propane fuel system should only be performed by trained propane service technicians. To prevent personal injury or damage to the fuel system, do not attempt repairs yourself.
Danger: Never cut or weld on the propane storage tank. Severe bodily injury or fire could result.
Propane is highly flammable. Keep sparks and open flames away from propane. Do not smoke when refueling the vehicle. Failure to observe these safety precautions could cause serious bodily injury or death.
The information provided in this chapter is specific to the propane engine, however, other chapters in this manual pertain to the propane operated vehicle. These include, but are not limited to, the controls and pretrip inspection and daily maintenance chapters.
Important: For assistance with propane engine related questions, contact Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation at 1-800-385-4357, option 1.
Note: Oil consumption is normal during operation of the propane engine. The rate of consumption is highly dependent on vehicle loading and duty cycles. New engines may experience higher oil consumption during the engine break-in period. For further information, refer to the engine manufacturer's manual.
Notice: If the ignition switch is in the RUN position for more than 15 seconds and the fuel tank is empty, the fuel pump must be unplugged. Failure to follow this procedure will result in damage to the fuel pump. Refer to the propane engine manual for instructions on how to unplug the fuel pump.
HD5 grade propane is recommended for propane engines. HD5 is a heavy duty engine grade propane with a minimum of 90% propane and a maximum of 5% propylene. This grade of propane is 100 plus octane and provides proper performance and emissions control, which the fuel system is designed to deliver.
The engine is designed to operate properly on a wide variety of liquid propane gas (LPG) blends which can fall in the category of HD5, and is not affected by "heavy ends" or other waxy hydrocarbons that have traditionally affected other systems.
Notice: LPG should be free of contaminants including, but not limited to, rust, dirt, sand, water, salt, and brine. These contaminants can cause engine damage that is not covered by the engine warranty.
Warning: The propane fuel system operates at pressures up to 312 psi (2151 kPa). A sudden release of propane can cause serious injuries if it contacts the skin or eyes. Always wear protective gloves and eye protection when handling propane.
LPG has no color. A distinctive odorant, similar to sulfur or rotten eggs, is added to LPG to alert anyone nearby in the event of a leak.