LPG procedure

[x5er]

OK, so I have no idea what LPG system I have in the X5. All I know is that the tank is in the spare wheel space, the filling cap is under the back bumper, it has a button on the dash to turn it on and it has magic jets??

I really haven't got a clue how to use it. I've filled it up but when and how should I switch over to LPG? I've tried a couple of times and it keeps stalling, I've got it running but it sounded awful and def wasn't running on all cylinders so I got scared so switched back to petrol!

I'm assuming it should be working OK as I have paperwork showing the LPG was serviced and a couple of bits replaced in only August.

Any advice greatfully received 

[JohnnyRob]

Modern lpg systems (if not all) allow the car to start on petrol and then switch to lpg when the engine reaches a certain temperature.  I've heard of this time to be anything between 2 - 10 miles.

This process should be automated - are you attempting to run it on lpg manually overriding the system before the engine has reached temperature?

In respect of what system you have - are there any markings on the the units under the engine cover or in the spare wheel well?

[Raj]

On my Prins system, from a cold start it automatically switches over after around 80 seconds which is when it reaches something like 45degrees temp. On a warm start up it switches over after about 8 seconds if not a little sooner. When running on LPG the switch indicator illuminates with the fuel level being lit (green led's). When running on petrol the indicator does not show the green lights for the fuel level and just shows a small orange led.

Obviously without knowing what system you have and switch the above is a guide but should be pretty much the same across all systems.

Once at operating temp you can manually switch between the 2 fuels with a quick press of the switch.

[aldmc]

Same on BRC system as Raj

[x5er]

Ok, thanks for the replies. Are all systems automatic then? I assumed as I had a button to change it over I had to do it manually, it definitely isn't running the lpg on it's own. I've had a look and I believe I have the KME Diego 3 system which I understand is quite an old one?

It's going to be a trip to the garage I think....

[Greydog]

My system was fitted when I brought the car. I found an LPG specialist not far from me and after purchase took it there for service as a precaution. The system turned out to be BRC fitted by him about 2 years earlier he changed a couple of filters and upgraded the software and it has run like a dream ever since.
Just as others have said change over between fuels is automatic if I run the LPG to empty a warning buzzer sounds prior to switch over.

So I would find a good LPG specialist close by and get it serviced as a first step. If your in West Sussex AFS Billingshurst are the guys I use ask for Paul.

[x5er]

Thanks. She's in a garage right now getting checked out - they're not an LPG specialist but do a bit of work on them. Unfortunately I think I have an oil leak so they're looking at that anyway....

[Ubatoid]

She should switch over automaticly as has been stated earlier. Mine starts on petrol from cold but if starting from hot goes straight to gas. The lumpy running is no doubt you trying to switch over too quick. The LPG light should flash telling you its going to run on gas when warm enough, and then go solid when on the gas. The older systems can need tuning every now and again or the fuel trims can creep out leading to poor running on initial startup or change over.
Its best to find a specialist who can check the system over and properly map the fueling to follow the petrol injection times.

[x5er]

Thanks, there's a place in Coventry I can try. Unless anyone knows anywhere nearer to CV13 area?
The oil leak was the oil filter housing, repaired under warranty (well most of it)