Potential purchase

[Niceperson]

My son recently bought a 2006 Berlingo van 1.4 petrol, with what appears to be a factory fit LPG system. Unfortunately after a few weeks the head gasket is showing signs of failure, and he's been advised it isn't worth repairing. 

I'm quite interested in rescuing it for myself - it's in good condition, 60,000 miles and drives very well. I quite fancy making a mini camper out of it!

The engine looks fairly straightforward to work on, but does the LPG setup complicate gasket replacement, and are there any pitfalls to be aware of?

Many thanks.

[cancunia]

Welcome.

I'm no expert on LPG conversions so I may be wrong but I doubt there's any difference to the gaskets used. I suppose the only thing to be aware of is that you'll need to get it checked for gas leaks by a specialist for peace of mind. If you search the form for LPG, there are a few others on here with them, so a post on those threads may help more.

[geoff]

The engine looks fairly straightforward to work on

does the LPG setup complicate gasket replacement and are there any pitfalls to be aware of?

1/ Yes

2/ Not really

[cancunia]

The engine looks fairly straightforward to work on

does the LPG setup complicate gasket replacement and are there any pitfalls to be aware of?

1/  Yes

2/  Not really

Just curious, how so on the first question?

[SinsBird]

If oil and coolant are not mixing you could try a head gasket sealer. After repair be sure to take the car to LPG specialist to check if the air/fuel mix is correct.

[Niceperson]

The engine looks fairly straightforward to work on

does the LPG setup complicate gasket replacement and are there any pitfalls to be aware of?

1/  Yes

2/  Not really

Just curious, how so on the first question?

Thanks all for the replies. 

A gasket sealer isn't an option unfortunately because there are clear signs of oil and water mixing. However the engine still runs fine, and does not overheat.

As for the LPG, there are few places selling it now, so  it might be possible not to bother with it and just remove the system.

[Zion]

Thats what I would do, remove the LPG and put it back to standard. Then the gasket is a straightforward job, and they are kind of known for blowing head gaskets I believe. (the 1.4 engine that is) although I've never had one, all mine were diesels.

[geoff]

" Just curious, how so on the first question? "

The 1.4 petrol engine is nothing special - bog standard simple affair.

With respect to the LPG and head gasket replacement it is simply a case of a few extra bits to remove and replace.

No need to worry about the gas as there will be shut off valves to take care of it, naturally you'll not have naked flames as with petrol.

LPG - refitting gas piping only needs leak checking so use a strong soapy liquid on any disturbed joint and look for bubbles.

Removing the LPG permanently ?
Personally I'd leave it in place and just use petrol, this way you avoid any issues with " modified vehicles " and your insurance policy.

[brodfather11]

From Geoffs reply , does it mean you can use petrol if there is no LPG supply around ?

[geoff]

^^ Fuel choice is optional