Answering the search for a small engine natural gas conversion kit, this guide highlights five practical options built for generators and portable engines. These kits let you convert existing gasoline systems to natural gas or dual fuel without major overhauls. Best for hobbyists and professionals who want flexibility between gasoline and natural gas. Below is a quick product snapshot to compare compatibility, scope, and installation notes.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| YAMAKATO Dual Tri Fuel Carburetor for Predator 4000 4375 etc. | 195cc–224cc Champion generators | Tri-fuel capability for generators and clones | Limited to certain engine models |
| Natural Gas Conversion Kit Compatible with Duromax XP12000EH | Heavy‑duty home backup generators | Preserves gasoline capability; simple switch | Specific to XP12000EH |
| YAMAKATO 389cc–459cc Tri Dual Generator Carburetor | Mid‑sized Generac/Predator/Champion engines | Wide engine compatibility | Manual carburetor kit; requires tuning |
| AUTOKAY Dual Fuel Carburetor LPG NG Conversion Kit | GX390 portable gasoline generators | High power range; practical for GX390 engines | Fuel system adjustments needed |
| Hipa GX390 Dual Fuel Carburetor for LPG & CNG | GX390/Predator 8750–9000 class generators | Broad compatibility with GX390 family | Not universal across all models |
YAMAKATO Dual Tri Fuel Carburetor
This carburetor kit supports Honda GX160/200 and several Generac, Champion, and other engines in 196cc–224cc ranges. It enables tri‑fuel operation (gasoline, natural gas, propane) and uses non-asbestos mounting gaskets. Best for: small to mid‑sized generators that require flexible fuel sources. Caution: Compatibility is model‑specific; confirm engine displacement and model family before purchase.
Natural Gas Conversion Kit for Duromax XP12000EH
Designed for the Duromax XP12000EH 12kW dual‑fuel systems, this kit uses the existing carburetor port for the natural gas inlet and preserves gasoline operation. Best for: homeowners with XP12000EH seeking a no‑permanent‑mod approach. Caution: Limited to compatible XP12000EH units; verify port size and hose routing before installation.
YAMAKATO 389cc–459cc Tri Dual Generator Carburetor
This kit targets 389cc–459cc engines and supports LPG, LNG, CNG, and gasoline. It covers Generac, Predator, Champion, and OEM GX270/GX340/GX390 classes. Best for: mid‑sized generators needing a broad fuel‑type range. Caution: Manual carburetor alignment may require careful adjustment after install.
AUTOKAY Dual Fuel Carburetor Kit
For gasoline generators in the GX390 class, this dual‑fuel carburetor with LPG/NG capability supports 4.5–5.5 kW outputs. Best for: GX390 engines needing reliable dual‑fuel operation. Caution: Check if your model supports the kit’s mounting and air‑intake compatibility.
Hipa GX390 Dual Fuel Carburetor
Fitting GX390, GX340, GX420 engines, this dual fuel carburetor supports LPG and CNG with a 4.5–6.5 kW output range, and compatibility with Predator and Champion units. Best for: owners with GX390/ GX420 families seeking flexible fuel sources. Caution: It lists broad compatibility; verify exact model and year for a hassle‑free install.
Bullplus Propane to Natural Gas Kit
Universal natural gas conversion for grills and outdoor cooktops with brass orifices for precise flow. Best for: outdoor appliances converting from propane to natural gas. Caution: Not a true engine kit; best for grills and smaller outdoor units rather than large engines or generators.
Blackstone 5249 Propane to Natural Gas Kit
Backed by Blackstone, this conversion kit includes a natural gas hose, fittings, and orifices to support 28″ and 36″ griddles. Best for: griddle users converting from propane to natural gas. Caution: Not designed for generators or non‑griddle appliances.
JNWYXIE Natural Gas Conversion Kit for Blackstone
Complete natural gas to propane conversion kit for Blackstone 28″ and 36″ griddles, including hoses, orifices, and installation accessories. Best for: outdoor grills and portable cookstations requiring reliable NG supply. Caution: Explicitly designed for Blackstone‑brand models; verify compatibility with your grill year and model.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Small Engine Natural Gas Conversions
Fuel compatibility matters. Identify whether you need true dual‑fuel capability or a dedicated natural gas conversion. Consider engine displacement, carburetor compatibility, and whether the kit includes mounting gaskets and installation hardware.
- Engine compatibility: Confirm model family, displacement, and year to avoid fit issues. Some kits target specific GX, Predator, or Champion variants.
- Fuel type support: Decide between gasoline only, or dual/flex fuel with LPG/CNG or LNG options. Tri‑fuel kits provide flexibility but may require tuning.
- Installation scope: Check included hardware and whether professional installation is recommended. Some kits avoid permanent modifications; others are permanent alterations.
- Port and inlet compatibility: Ensure carburetor ports, natural gas inlets, and hose connections match your engine and gas supply lines.
- Safety and seals: Look for non‑asbestos gaskets and brass fittings for durability and leak resistance.
- Maintenance and tuning: Be prepared for post‑install tuning to optimize air/fuel mixture for natural gas.
What to ask before buying
- Is the kit regionally compatible with your gas supply standard (LPG, LNG, CNG)?
- Does the kit preserve gasoline operation when needed?
- Are the mounting and gasket materials rated for your engine’s operating temperatures?
- Does the kit include all installation hardware or require additional components?
Comparison Snapshot
Use this quick guide to choose among the five listed products:
- Best for broad engine families: YAMAKATO Tri Fuel Carburetor (widest compatibility).
- Best for heavy‑duty backup gensets: Duromax XP12000EH kit (specific model advantage).
- Best for mid‑size generators: YAMAKATO 389cc–459cc Tri Dual kit.
- Best for GX390 class engines: AUTOKAY or Hipa dual‑fuel carburetors.
- Best for outdoor cooking equipment: Blackstone and JNWYXIE NG kits (griddle focused).
FAQ
- What is a small engine natural gas conversion kit? A kit that enables a gasoline engine or portable generator to run on natural gas or dual fuels, with components like carburetor adapters, hoses, and orifices.
- Do these kits require professional installation? Some kits are DIY with standard tools; others may need professional calibration, especially for engine tuning.
- Will I lose gasoline capability after conversion? Many dual/fuel kits retain gasoline operation; verify the kit’s design and a gas‑gasoline switch mechanism.
- Are all kits compatible with all engines? No, compatibility is engine model, displacement, and year specific. Always verify model numbers and displacement.
- Do these kits include safety components? Most include gaskets and fittings; always inspect for leak‑proof seals and test gas connections in a safe environment.
- Is natural gas conversion cost‑effective? It depends on fuel price stability, installation costs, and usage patterns; calculate long‑term fuel savings vs. setup costs.