Propane conversion for Honda EU3000is

SolarWombat

Does anyone have experience with the propane conversion for the Honda EU3000is, as per:

http://www.generatorsales.com/order/Honda-EU3000iS-Tri-fuel.asp?page=EU3000iS_Tri_Fuel

I'm wondering if it's worth it, i.e. no issue of old gas and gunky carb when generator is only for occasional backup. Are there issues with not reaching the full wattage output with propane, high elevation (7000 ft), or difficulty starting?

Thanks!

Cariboocoot

Re: Propane conversion for Honda EU3000is

You might want to read through this similar thread, if you haven't already: http://forum.solar-electric.com/showthread.php?t=10312&highlight=propane+conversion

Personally I wouldn't do it because the propane use is significant and in combination with higher elevation you'd be losing a lot of power. Add some fuel stabilizer to your gasoline, keep it sealed up, and do a bit of regular maintenance on the gen to make sure it's ready to go whenever.

6,000 hours on my EU1000i and counting; nothing but oil, gas, and the occasional spark plug.
I've been looking for a suitable natural gas gen for back-up at the in-town house. Nothing yet.

SolarWombat

Re: Propane conversion for Honda EU3000is

Thanks a bunch, C. Yes, I saw that thread and noted Dave Sparks hesitation in particular, which prompted the questions. I think I'll go with the straight gas, unless glowing propane proponents come on board soon.

Cariboocoot

Re: Propane conversion for Honda EU3000is

SolarWombat wrote: »

Thanks a bunch, C. Yes, I saw that thread and noted Dave Sparks hesitation in particular, which prompted the questions. I think I'll go with the straight gas, unless glowing propane proponents come on board soon.

We've had propane system at the cabin (running 'frige, stove, lights) since long before the solar electric. I always discounted getting a propane gen because of the enormous extra fuel use and significant lack of power even at 3200 ft. It could only be worse at 7000. Gasoline has worked well there for 25 years now.

Dave Angelini

Re: Propane conversion for Honda EU3000is

The folks in Maine are the best at this and I have used them for new and used.
The power lost is a small issue if you are not maxing out the eu3000i at this time.
The real issue INMHO is in your location you should be able to live without a generator! Take care of the fuel as the guy's here suggest and make this you last generator. They are, all beasts!

SolarWombat

Re: Propane conversion for Honda EU3000is

Thanks, Dave! I've done without a generator for 4 years now, and have loved not having one (except for those twice-a-year freak outs when something went amiss). But with the purchase of some ridiculously expensive Rolls batteries, I'm gearing up to help the Sun God out during stretches of cloudy monsoon weather.

Dave Angelini

Re: Propane conversion for Honda EU3000is

Yes the monsson! It is fading up here today! Did you see that dust storm in Phoenix?

SolarWombat

Re: Propane conversion for Honda EU3000is

Just photos ... pretty phenomenal! And yet another reason to avoid Phx.