LPG on Rodeo V6

[toybox]

Hi there, I have a 1999 Rodeo Dual Cab 4X4 V6 on Dual Fuel. I have been told by an LPG expert in my area to sell the car as they are renown for burning valves out and they are mega expensive to fix?????? Does anybody have any opinions or experiences they could share to help me to decide on whether to follow his advice? Thanks. Rob.

[WRXZook]

Mine was fitted from new at Holden. 17 valves replaced under warranty at 78k. Heads were done at Duncan Fosters and the guides had brass inserts fitted. Now at 175k it has some burnt valves but I am going to drive it until it is on its last legs before doing anything. This vehicle is driven very easy, no loads, no abuse, has flash-lube kit fitted and is always started on petrol and driven until warmed up before switching to gas. A friend who owns a gas fitting workshop has advised me that this engine has a bad record on gas.

I am a mechanic by trade and can do the repair myself, but the economics aren't there to make it worthwhile in my opinion, ie the cost initial fitment, two top end repairs, gas servicing, tank re-certification (when it reaches ten years) buys a lot of petrol. With this particular engine, I will never be ahead on running costs, but because I like the vehicle, I will probably do an engine conversion rather than a repair.

Incidently, at 175k, it is still on the original disc pads, has never had a wheel alignment, original tyres lasted 123k, no discernable wear in the steering and suspension and has had no other problems.

[Ford Rodeo]

I have recently put mine (98 V6 Twin Cab @170k) on gas a few months ago after hearing that the newer systems are far more advanced and more reliable. I've been told that the problem is leaning mixtures too much can burn valves, so make sure your mixtures are correct and checked regularily. I reckon I've saved the price of the unit in fuel savings already and the power difference is almost as good. I have had some light backfiring if I gun it then back off, but have been told (not by installer) that its hard to stop when you have a snorkel fitted. I like the idea of having long range as the 63ltr petrol tank was too small for travelling. I would also like to hear any comments or observations from other V6 Rodeo LPG users.

Cheers

Phill

[sudso]

99 3.2 Rodeo. Gastech31 system.
The previous owner (who had the system fitted) already had the valves done. The factory ones are crap. The aftermarket LPG valves are good for about 200K.
I had one burnt exhaust valve in 06. I did the whole job myself. When I pulled the head off there was still one factory valve remaining (the burnt one)
Why the hell didnt they replace all of them
I reshimmed all the valve clearances too while I was at it due to slight seat recession.
All been good since and screw paying 1.55 for ULP. I average 325kms on 50lts of LPG and theres bugger all difference in power, ok, well maybe a bit more at the top end.