LPG servicing

[BIG DUNC]

I have recently bought a range rover which runs on LPG. Since then I have been told the LPG system "MUST" be serviced annualy, and ( by someone else ) that an annual LPG service is not really required if the system is working properly.

So which is it, and what is involved in the annual service?

Is it a close visual inspection of all the components that easily accessable, and a function test?
Does it involve any adjustments, filter changes, leak tests, or pressure tests?

As the "tank" is a pressure vessel, I would expect it to require a hydrostatic test every ten years. In this case, it is a lot younger than that so won't be an issue for quite a while. However, out of interest, does that involve removing the tank from the car and sending it away, or can it be carried out "in situ"?

Any helpful positive replies would be appreciated.

[BIG DUNC]

And slightly off topic, will a 15 year old LPG Range Rover be congestion charge exempt?

[Liszt]

Nope it wont be exempt any more. They moved the goal posts.

The answer is it: It varies. As long as it is running smoothly then it shouldn't really need a service. If it starts to back fire or run erratically and you have checked the dizzy cap, rotor arm (always use genuine lucas items), leads, coil, ignition amp (on side of dizzy) and air intake hoses, then take it to a specailist. I paid £200 for an LPG system service, new coil, ign. amp and some rewiring.

[BIG DUNC]

Thanks.
It runs very smoothly, and I would change the parts you mention before taking it to a specialist anyway.

[ingrowtn]

It may also depend when it was fitted for any warranty remaining. Mine came with a 5 year warranty, but the warranty is only validby keeping the service record.

For me £130 for the LPG service every 10,000 miles is well worth it.

[BIG DUNC]

Out of warranty.
It will only do a very low milage, which is part of the reason I begrudge an "annual" service. If it was "X,000" miles, that would be better.
Also, what is involved with this service? Not even my local LPG specialist could give a good answer ( other than "we give it a good check over" ).

[ingrowtn]

Not sure exactly, the place I go to has some equipment that the system gets plugged into and engine things get checked. (Engine things is about as technical as I get). Most of the cost is labour. There is a filter that gets changed as well.

They must do something though, I was getting 11.5 mpg before it went in and 12.6 since.

[Liszt]

Check all the pipes and fittings.
Drain the vapouriser of heavy residue.
Check the timing and emmissions when running on gas.

If their nice, fill it with gas too.