I have a Towmotor propane forklift that quit running. I am new to propane. I can start the engine with starting fluid but itdies as soon as I quit feeding it starting fluid, therefore the problem is not electrical.

I rebuilt the carburetor (Bendix Zenith) but I don't know how to adjust the main valve at the bottom, but that is a minor problem, I think. I have learned that propane does not work like gasoline and it needs to be converted from liquid (solid) to vapor. I removed and disassembled what I think is a vaporizer from the engine where the upper cooling hose fits. There is one adjustment screw on that assembly and there is a water thermostat and one diaphragm. It appears simple. I am thinking that the liquid propane is allowed into the vaporizer by a solenoid valve when the ignition is actuated. I further think that the vaporizer is actually a nozzle that sprays the propane in the carburetor allowing it ignite the propane droplets by allowing the droplets to be mixed with outside air. After the engine starts and warm, the water from the radiator raises the temperature of the propane for better combustion.

AM I CORRRECT SO FAR?

How are the carburetor valves and the vaporizer to be adjusted?

Is there a repair kit available for the vaporizer or can one be purchased used; it seems so simple that I am nervous about its functioning. It would seem that if combustion did not occur immediately after turning the key that the engine would only have liquid propane and not enough air and the engine would flood. Again, I am not familiar with propane and have only used it for grilling or applying roofing materials. Is there a diagram available for the insides of the vaporizer? Other that a spring loaded valve inside the vaporizer, are there any moving parts?

I am assuming that this is a four cylinder flat head Continental engine as I can find not nameplates.

I will appreciate any help.

Thank You ,
Dieter Schmied
[email address removed]
Cincinnati, USA