Compressed Natural Gas Safety Precautions
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 112 other vehicles, including the 1998 Toyota Land Cruiser, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK230, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL500, 1998 Lexus LX 470, and 1998 GMC C3500 HD. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- DO NOT smoke or create sparks while servicing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fuel systems.
- Natural gas vapors at atmospheric pressure are lighter than air and will rise and disperse in open areas. In enclosed areas, natural gas vapor may collect and form a combustible mixture. If the vehicle is routinely placed in an enclosed area or if the facility is heated by open flame heaters, the area should be provided with adequate ventilation and/or a natural gas detection system. For long-term storage, the manual shut-off valve and individual cylinder valves should be closed.
- Natural gas contains an odorant additive. If persistent natural gas odor is detected, a leak is indicated and should be repaired immediately.
- DO NOT return any vehicle to service that has been in an accident which may have damaged or dislocated any fuel system component until a thorough inspection and leak test has been made.
- DO NOT attempt to weld CNG fuel cylinders or any other part of fuel system.
- Any fuel system component, including the cylinders, that have been subjected to fire may not be returned to service due to reduced pressure capability.
- DO NOT use paint oven to cure paint repairs.
- DO NOT paint or undercoat any CNG fuel system component.
- Chrysler CNG fuel systems have a maximum capacity of 3000 psi compensated to a temperature of 70°F (21°C). Vehicles SHOULD ONLY be refueled using equipment incorporating temperature compensation to 70°F (21°C). Exceeding fuel system capacity will result in fuel system damage or personal injury.
- The fuel pressure regulator is under cooling system pressure. DO NOT attempt to remove hoses from the regulator without relieving cooling system pressure.
- DO NOT park vehicle near a source of excessive heat or open flame.
- DO NOT attempt to force open fuel filler valve; a sudden release of natural gas will occur, possibly causing an explosion.
- When replacing threaded fuel system components on General Motors vehicles, always apply SWAK® anaerobic pipe sealant to new component threads, except compression fittings.
- When replacing threaded fuel system components on Chrysler vehicles, a go/no-go tool MUST be used to check for correct tightness of fittings.
- CNG fuel systems are under extremely high pressure. NEVER use steel, copper or brass tubing in place of stainless steel fuel tubes.
- NEVER use replacement fuel system components that are not manufactured to OEM standards.