what do think of this van? CNG

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fort worth-er

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Hello All

I would love to hear thought on this van.  CNG, yes or no?

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http://www.commercialtrucktrader.com/listing/2011-Ford-E450--118858005
 
On the good side, CNG is supposed to be easier on the engine, so maybe 200k isn't as high as it sounds. On the down side, where do you even re-fill the gas? I don't think you could even get CNG around here...it's all propane.

Oh, and it's black...best looking color that I'd rather shoot myself than own again...
 
If you are asking about the CNG part it depends on where you intend to drive it. If you live around Fort Worth the stations in Texas are not close enough together for me to have one. If you live in Oklahoma you are probably ok. I looked at some CNG vans 2-3 months ago and decided I couldn't go that route due to the station issue around the country. Some of them aren't that reliable either. As far as being accessible or in operating condition.
 
refilling CNG in the boonies is a problem. then finding someone to work on them is another problem. highdesertranger
 
Nice body.  Lot of potential.  Make sure you have your insurance lined up before you get involved with a bus conversion.  It appears to be very problematical in some states, not too hard to do in others.

CNG tanks operate at VERY high pressure, 3,000 psi or more.  They have expiration dates on them, a sticker near the fill saying something like "Do Not Use After xx/xx/xxxx."

Legally, the refueling place is not allowed to refuel it after that date, or if the sticker is missing.  They are also supposed to refuse to refuel it if there is any visible sign of damage to the tank, a lot of corrosion caused by road salt, etc.  A new CNG tank will set you back several thousand dollars.  Most CNG vehicles are scrapped when the tank expires cause it's usually not worth it to put a new tank in.

I think the tanks are good for ten years, maybe twelve.  So 2011 vehicles might have 5 years or a little more left on them. 

My personal opinion is that CNG vehicles should be left to the fleet operators, taxicab companies, bus companies, municipalities, etc.  They usually have their own refuel facility, and they have their own mechanics who are certified for working on CNG systems.  For an individual, the headaches WAY outweigh any possible advantages.

If you REALLY like these busses, it might be possible to have them converted back to gasoline operation.  You'd have to investigate the cost and practicality of that option before getting involved in the project.
 
I've only ever driven LNG vehicles, but under no circumstances would I buy any NG powered vehicle, period, based on that experience
 
I though about going CNG a while back because of the price of CNG was so much cheaper then regular unleaded. But I researched availability and it was poor in the SF bay area. I didn't want to be stuck to cities, not to mention the tank expiration thing so I abandoned the idea.
 
I wouldn't buy it unless I was able to talk them down enough to pay for a engine conversion.
 
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