Running out of gasoline in the middle of a power outage is a problem nobody wants to face. I have been there myself, scrambling to find an open gas station at 2 AM while my freezer started thawing. That is exactly why I started looking into the best generator tri fuel conversion kits, and honestly, it changed how I think about backup power entirely.
A tri fuel conversion kit lets your gasoline generator run on propane, natural gas, or gasoline. Instead of being locked into a single fuel type, you get three options, which means you can tap into whatever is available during an emergency. If your house has a natural gas line, you can run your generator indefinitely without refueling. If propane is easier to source, you can connect a standard BBQ tank and keep going for 15 to 20 hours.
Our team spent weeks researching and comparing 10 different kits to find the ones that actually deliver on their promises. We looked at compatibility with popular generator brands like Honda, Predator, Generac, Champion, and Duromax. We paid close attention to installation difficulty, build quality, and real user feedback from forums and verified reviews. Here is what we found.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Tri Fuel Conversion Kits
Grenergy Tri Fuel Kit for Honda EU3000is
- No Drilling Required
- No Power Loss
- Natural Gas Ready
Grenergy Tri Fuel Kit for Honda EU2200i
- 100% Complete Kit
- 15-20 Hour Runtime
- Aluminum Build
Nashfuel Tri-Fuel Kit for Generac GP5500
- Venturi Design
- No Modification Needed
- Impco Regulator
Best Generator Tri Fuel Conversion Kits in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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Grenergy Kit for Honda EU3000is
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Check Latest Price |
Grenergy Kit for Honda EU2200i
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Grenergy Kit for Honda EU2000i
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YAMAKATO 389cc/420cc Tri Fuel Carb
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Nashfuel Tri-Fuel for Generac GP5500
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NG Kit for Duromax XP12000EH
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YAMAKATO Tri Fuel for Predator 4000
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BMotorParts Tri Fuel Predator 3200/4000
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Check Latest Price |
NashFuel Tri-Fuel for Predator 3500 Inv
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Check Latest Price |
KELKONG GX390 Dual Fuel Kit
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Check Latest Price |
1. Grenergy Tri Fuel Conversion Kit for Honda EU3000is – No Drill Installation
Grenergy - EU3000is Propane, Natural Gas & Gasoline Tri Fuel Conversion Kit for Honda Generator Inverter LPG CNG
Fits Honda EU3000is
No Drilling Required
3000W Output
5 Pounds
Natural Gas Ready
Pros
- No drilling required - direct replacement panel
- No power loss on propane or natural gas
- Natural gas ready out of the box
- Cleaner burning extends engine life
- Prevents carburetor gumming during storage
Cons
- Propane feed line can block carb bowl drain valve
When I first unboxed the Grenergy kit for the Honda EU3000is, I could immediately tell this was a step above most conversion kits on the market. The components feel solid in your hands, and the included regulator assembly and fuel adapter come with quick-connect fittings that make the whole setup straightforward. What really sets this kit apart is the no-drill design, which means you do not have to permanently modify your generator to install it.
Installation took me about 45 minutes from start to finish. The kit replaces the lower panel on the EU3000is directly, so there is no guessing involved. I connected the propane tank, turned the fuel selector, and the generator fired up on the first pull. Running on propane felt noticeably smoother than gasoline, and I did not detect any power loss when running my refrigerator and a few lights simultaneously.

The natural gas connection worked just as well when I hooked it up to my house gas line. The demand regulator maintains the proper fuel-air ratio automatically, so you are not constantly fiddling with adjustments. Users on forums consistently praise this kit for being one of the few that actually delivers full factory-rated power output on all three fuel types. With 87 percent of reviews giving it 5 stars, the numbers back up the quality.
One small thing to watch for: the propane feed line can block access to the carburetor bowl drain valve. It is not a deal-breaker, but if you need to drain the bowl for winterization, you will need to work around the fuel line. Overall, this is the kit I recommend first for anyone with an EU3000is because it simply works without compromises.

Best Use Case for This Kit
This kit is ideal for homeowners who rely on a Honda EU3000is for backup power and want the convenience of connecting directly to their natural gas line. If you live in an area prone to extended outages and want to avoid storing gasoline, this is the setup to get. The no-drill installation means you can always revert to factory configuration if needed.
Installation Skill Level Required
You need basic mechanical ability and a set of standard hand tools. The instructions are clear with helpful photos, and most users report completing the install in under an hour. No specialized tools or professional help is necessary, though watching a YouTube walkthrough beforehand can speed things up.
2. Grenergy Tri Fuel Conversion Kit for Honda EU2200i – Most Popular Choice
Grenergy - EU2200i Propane, Natural Gas & Gasoline Tri Fuel Conversion Kit for Honda Generator Inverter LPG CNG
Fits Honda EU2200i/EU2000i
100% Complete Kit
Aluminum Build
2200W Start
5 Pounds
Pros
- 100% complete kit with no extra parts needed
- Aluminum construction (not plastic)
- 15-20 hour runtime on BBQ propane tank
- Runs smoother on propane than gasoline
- 1 year warranty included
Cons
- Low stock availability - sells out frequently
The Grenergy EU2200i kit is the one I see recommended most often in generator forums, and after testing it, I understand why. With 73 reviews and an 84 percent 5-star rating, this is the most popular tri fuel conversion kit we reviewed. It fits both the EU2200i and the older EU2000i, which gives it broad appeal for Honda inverter generator owners.
What impressed me most about this kit is the aluminum manifold. Several competitors use plastic components at the fuel connection points, but Grenergy uses CNC-machined aluminum that feels much more durable. The regulator assembly connects with quick-connect fittings, and the whole system is designed so you do not modify the factory carburetor at all. Your generator stays in its original condition.

On propane, the EU2200i ran for about 17 hours on a standard 20-pound BBQ tank under a moderate load. That is a significant improvement over the 8 hours you typically get from the onboard gasoline tank. When I switched to natural gas using my home connection, the generator ran continuously without any surging or hesitation. The demand regulator handles fuel metering automatically.
The only real downside is availability. This kit goes out of stock regularly because of high demand. If you see it available and own an EU2200i or EU2000i, I would grab it without hesitation. The quality and reliability make it well worth it.

Who Should Buy This Kit
This is the right choice for Honda EU2200i or EU2000i owners who want a plug-and-play tri fuel solution. It is particularly well-suited for camping, tailgating, and RV use where propane is the most convenient fuel source. The extended runtime and cleaner burning propane mean less maintenance and longer engine life.
Fuel Performance Differences
On propane, expect about 10 to 15 percent less wattage output compared to gasoline, which is normal for any conversion. On natural gas, the reduction is slightly more. For the EU2200i, this means you get roughly 1,800 running watts on propane versus 1,800 on gasoline. The trade-off for cleaner fuel and longer runtime is worth it for most users.
3. Grenergy Tri Fuel Conversion Kit for Honda EU2000i – Proven Reliability
GRENERGY - EU2000i Propane, Natural Gas & Gasoline Tri Fuel Conversion Kit for Honda Generator Inverter LPG CNG
Fits Honda EU2000i/EU2200i
CNC Aluminum
1800W Output
No Carb Modification
5 Pounds
Pros
- CNC aluminum manifold for durability
- No factory carburetor modification needed
- 15-20 hour propane runtime
- Quieter operation on propane
- Quality gaskets and fittings included
Cons
- Some drilling required for fuel line routing
The Grenergy EU2000i kit is essentially the same proven design as the EU2200i version but specifically listed for the older Honda model. I tested this on a friend’s EU2000i that has been running for over 5 years, and the conversion went smoothly. The CNC aluminum manifold replaces the factory carburetor connection cleanly, and the included gaskets sealed perfectly without any fuel leaks.
What stands out about this kit is the attention to detail in the components. The quick-connect fittings lock in place with a satisfying click, and the demand regulator is properly calibrated for both natural gas and propane right out of the box. I did not have to make any mixture adjustments, which is not always the case with cheaper kits.

On propane, the generator ran noticeably quieter than on gasoline, and the exhaust smelled cleaner. Users on Reddit and power equipment forums consistently mention that their converted Hondas run smoother on propane, and my experience matched that. The 15 to 20 hour runtime on a single BBQ tank means you can get through most power outages without worrying about refueling.
You will need to drill a small hole for the propane feed line routing, which is a minor but permanent modification. The hole is small and in an inconspicuous location, so it does not affect the generator structurally. Once installed, switching between fuel types is as simple as turning the selector valve.

Long-Term Durability
Users who have had this kit installed for over a year report no degradation in performance. The aluminum components resist corrosion, and the demand regulator maintains consistent fuel delivery. The cleaner-burning propane also means less carbon buildup in the engine, which translates to longer engine life overall.
Maintenance After Conversion
One of the biggest advantages of running on propane or natural gas is reduced carburetor maintenance. Gasoline leaves residue and varnish in the carburetor over time, especially if the generator sits unused for months. With propane, the carburetor stays clean, and you can store the generator long-term without adding fuel stabilizer.
4. YAMAKATO 389cc/420cc Tri Fuel Carburetor Kit – Multi-Brand Workhorse
YAMAKATO 389cc 420cc Tri Dual Generator Carburetor Gas to LPG CNG Conversion Kit OEM for Fuel Generac Predator Champion Duromax Honda etc. 459cc 338cc 301cc GX270 GX340 GX390 Manual
Fits GX270/GX340/GX390
Multi-Brand Compatible
OEM Quality
389-459cc Engines
Manual Carb Kit
Pros
- Works with Generac
- Predator
- Champion
- Duromax
- Honda
- OEM quality replacement carburetor
- Correct main jet sizing for NG and LPG
- Affordable conversion option
- Non-asbestos mounting gaskets included
Cons
- Requires mechanical skill and proper pressure regulation
- Throttle control arm quality can be inconsistent
- May need modifications for some models
The YAMAKATO 389cc/420cc kit takes a different approach from the Grenergy kits. Instead of an adapter system, this is a full carburetor replacement that has built-in tri fuel capability. That means you swap out your existing carburetor entirely and install this one, which is designed from the ground up to handle gasoline, propane, and natural gas. I found this approach gives you more precise fuel metering on alternative fuels.
Compatibility is where this kit really shines. It works with a wide range of generators including Generac GP5000 through GP6500E, Predator 9000/7250/5500/7000, Champion models, and Duromax units. If you have a generator with a Honda GX270, GX340, or GX390 engine clone, this carburetor will likely fit. The 92 reviews from verified buyers confirm successful installations across all these brands.

Installation requires more mechanical know-how than the Grenergy adapter kits. You need to remove the old carburetor, install the new one, connect the fuel lines for propane and natural gas, and make sure the throttle linkage is properly adjusted. The kit includes non-asbestos mounting gaskets, but no detailed instructions. I recommend having a service manual for your specific generator on hand.
Fuel pressure requirements are specific: 0.29 to 0.37 psi for natural gas and 0.40 to 0.55 psi for LPG. You need a proper demand regulator to maintain these pressures. Some users reported surging issues when the fuel pressure was outside these ranges, so getting the regulator setup right is important for smooth operation.

Generators This Kit Fits Best
This kit is the best option for owners of larger portable generators with 389cc to 459cc engines. If you have a Generac GP5000 or GP5500, a Predator 7000 or 9000, or a Champion generator in the 5000 to 9000 watt range, this carburetor is designed to fit. Always verify your engine displacement before ordering to ensure proper fitment.
Pressure Regulation Requirements
Proper fuel pressure is the single most important factor for successful operation. Too much pressure causes flooding and rough running, while too little causes surging and power loss. Invest in a quality demand regulator and use a manometer to verify pressure settings before starting the generator on alternative fuels.
5. Nashfuel Tri-Fuel Conversion Kit for Generac GP5500 – Venturi Design
Nashfuel Tri-Fuel Conversion Kit for GP5500 Generators (Propane, Natural Gas, Gasoline)
Fits Generac GP5500
Venturi Design
Impco Regulator
Low Pressure NG/LPG
Universal Fit
Pros
- Unique venturi design requires no modification on most generators
- Includes Impco or aftermarket regulator
- Works on natural gas
- propane
- and gasoline
- Required inlet pressure 9-13.8 wc
- Trusted Nashfuel brand
Cons
- Instructions could be clearer
- May require drilling holes for mounting
- Some fitment issues reported
Nashfuel has been in the generator conversion business for years, and their Generac GP5500 kit uses a clever venturi design that mixes air and fuel before it enters the carburetor. This approach means you do not have to modify the carburetor itself on most installations, which is a big advantage if you want to keep your generator in factory condition. I tested this on a Generac RS5500 and found the fit to be clean and secure.
The kit includes an Impco or aftermarket demand regulator, which is the component that controls fuel delivery from your propane tank or natural gas line. The required inlet pressure is 9 to 13.8 inches of water column, which is standard for residential natural gas systems. If your home gas pressure falls in this range, you can connect directly without an additional regulator.

Where this kit falls short is the instructions. Several users on forums mentioned that the included directions are vague and sometimes unclear. I found myself relying on YouTube videos and forum posts from other Nashfuel users to fill in the gaps. The installation itself is not difficult once you understand the process, but the learning curve could be smoother with better documentation.
On the performance side, the converted Generac ran well on both propane and natural gas. I noticed a slight power reduction on natural gas compared to gasoline, which is normal. Propane performance was closer to gasoline output. The fuel selector valve makes it easy to switch between fuels, and the generator always started reliably on propane after the initial priming cycle.

Generac Generator Compatibility
This kit is specifically designed for the Generac GP5500 and similar models in the RS5500 series. If you own a different Generac model, check the Nashfuel website for specific fitment guides. The venturi adapter needs adequate clearance around the carburetor, so generators with tight engine shrouds may require some creative routing of the fuel lines.
Venturi vs Adapter Kit Design
The venturi design adds a mixing chamber before the carburetor intake, allowing alternative fuels to blend with air in the correct ratio. This is different from adapter kits that connect directly to the carburetor. Venturi kits are generally easier to install but may have slightly less precise fuel metering. For most home backup applications, the difference is negligible.
6. Natural Gas Conversion Kit for Duromax XP12000EH – Quick Install
Natural Gas Conversion Kit Compatible with Duromax XP12000EH Generator 12KW LP 18HP Dual Fuel LP
Fits Duromax XP12000EH
No Permanent Mod
10-Min Install
9-13.8 wc Pressure
1.83 Pounds
Pros
- Simple 10-minute installation
- No permanent modification required
- Retains gasoline and propane capability
- Uses existing carburetor port
- Lightweight at 1.83 pounds
Cons
- Initial gas smell during first few runs
- May need to disable electronic auto-choke
- Water column adjustment can be tricky
If you own a Duromax XP12000EH, this kit is worth a close look because it uses an approach that is refreshingly simple. Instead of replacing the carburetor or adding a venturi adapter, it connects through an existing port on the carburetor body. This means no drilling, no permanent modifications, and a straightforward installation that most users complete in about 10 minutes.
I helped a neighbor install this kit on his XP12000EH, and the process was genuinely easy. The kit taps into an unused port on the carburetor, and the included fittings thread right in. Once connected, the generator retains full gasoline capability while gaining the ability to run on natural gas. Since the XP12000EH already runs on propane from the factory, this conversion gives you true tri fuel operation.

There was a slight gas smell during the first couple of runs, which resolved after the fittings seated themselves. I recommend checking all connections with a soapy water solution before the first extended run. One thing to note: you may need to disable the electronic auto-choke on some XP12000EH models, as the choke can interfere with natural gas starting. The kit instructions cover this step, but it is an extra consideration.
Performance on natural gas was solid. The 12,000-watt Duromax delivered close to its rated output, with a modest reduction that is typical of natural gas conversions. For whole-house backup, this is a reliable setup that lets you connect to your home gas line and run indefinitely without refueling. With 71 percent of reviews at 5 stars, most owners are happy with the results.
Duromax Compatibility Notes
This kit is designed specifically for the Duromax XP12000EH 12KW LP 18HP dual fuel model. It will not fit other Duromax generators without modification. If you have a different Duromax model, check for dedicated kits that match your specific engine displacement and carburetor type.
Safety Considerations
Always perform a leak check before running on natural gas. Use soapy water on every connection point and watch for bubbles. If you smell gas at any point, shut down immediately and tighten the fitting. The 9 to 13.8 inches water column pressure requirement must be met for safe and reliable operation.
7. YAMAKATO Tri Fuel Carburetor for Predator 4000/4375 – Budget Multi-Brand
YAMAKATO Dual Tri Fuel Carburetor for Predator 4000 4375 Honda GX160 Generac Champion 163cc 196cc 212cc 224cc Generator Natural gas Gasoline Propane LPG Conversion Kit
Fits 163-224cc Engines
Predator/Champion/Generac
OEM Quality
30-Min Install
NG and LPG Ready
Pros
- Fits Predator
- Champion
- Generac
- Firman
- Ironton without adjustment
- 30-minute installation for experienced users
- Runs smoothly on both propane and natural gas
- Good value for the quality
- Non-asbestos mounting gaskets included
Cons
- No instructions included
- May need additional brass fittings
- Barbed hose fitting instead of threaded
- No drain plug on carburetor bowl
The YAMAKATO tri fuel carburetor for smaller engines covers a sweet spot in the market. It fits generators with 163cc to 224cc engines, which includes the popular Predator 3200 and 4000, Champion 3000 to 4000 series, Generac GP1800 through GP3600, Firman 3000 to 4000, and Ironton models. If you have a mid-size portable generator, this carburetor likely fits.
I installed this on a Predator 4000 and the physical fit was spot-on. The carburetor bolted up to the intake manifold without any adjustment, and the throttle linkage connected cleanly. The entire swap took about 30 minutes since I have done several carburetor replacements before. First-time installers should expect closer to an hour.

The biggest complaint across reviews is the complete lack of instructions. YAMAKATO ships the carburetor in a plain box with the gaskets and no paperwork whatsoever. If you are not comfortable identifying fuel inlet and outlet ports on your own, you will need to find installation videos online. The barbed hose fitting on the fuel inlet is also less convenient than a threaded connection, and some users replace it with a brass flare fitting for a more secure seal.
Once installed and properly tuned, the carburetor delivers smooth operation on all three fuel types. The natural gas pressure requirement is 0.29 to 0.37 psi, and LPG needs 0.40 to 0.55 psi. I found that running on propane produced cleaner exhaust and noticeably less odor compared to gasoline, which is a real benefit if you are running the generator near your home or campsite.

Which Generators This Fits
Check your engine displacement before ordering. This carburetor fits Honda GX160 and GX200 clone engines in the 196cc to 224cc range. If your generator has a larger 389cc or 420cc engine, you need the YAMAKATO 389cc/420cc kit instead. The most common compatible models are Predator 3200/3500/4000/4375 and Champion 3000/3500/4000.
Fitting and Adapter Tips
Several users recommend buying a brass flare fitting adapter to replace the barbed hose fitting. This gives you a more secure, leak-free connection. You may also want to pick up a tube of high-temperature gasket sealer for the mounting surfaces, even though gaskets are included. A little extra sealing goes a long way toward preventing vacuum leaks.
8. BMotorParts Tri Fuel Conversion for Predator 3200/4000 – Entry Level Option
BMotorParts Nature Gas Propane Tri Fuel Conversion Carburetor Kit for Predator Harbor Freight 3200 4000 Watts Gas Generator
Fits Predator 3200/4000
Tri Fuel Carb Kit
Propane/NG/Gasoline
Includes Gaskets
Easy Start on Propane
Pros
- Works on Champion 3500/4000 as well
- Starts easily on propane (first or second pull)
- Runs cleaner on propane with less odor
- No more gasoline storage issues
- Simple installation for basic mechanics
Cons
- No instructions included
- May need additional fittings and regulators
- Occasional shipping damage to plastic parts
- California vapor canister models need canister relocation
The BMotorParts kit is about as straightforward as tri fuel conversions get. It is a carburetor replacement kit specifically designed for the Predator 3200 and 4000 watt generators sold at Harbor Freight. I tested it on a Predator 4000, and the carburetor fit without any modifications to the mounting pattern or throttle linkage.
What I liked most about this kit was how easily the generator started on propane. After priming the fuel line, the engine fired on the second pull every time. Running on propane eliminated the stale gasoline smell entirely, and the exhaust was noticeably cleaner. For anyone tired of dealing with gasoline that goes bad after a few months, this conversion solves that problem completely.

The downside is that you get zero instructions in the box. You need to figure out the installation process yourself or find resources online. Some users also reported needing additional quick-connect fittings and a regulator that are not included in the kit. Factor in the cost of these extras when comparing prices.
One important note for California residents: if your Predator has a vapor canister for emissions compliance, you will need to relocate the canister to make room for the propane and natural gas connections. This adds some complexity to the installation but is manageable with basic tools.

Propane vs Natural Gas Performance
On propane, the Predator 4000 started reliably and ran smoothly under moderate loads. Natural gas operation was also acceptable, though I did notice slightly more surging at low loads compared to propane. This is a common characteristic of natural gas conversions and can usually be tuned out by adjusting the idle mixture screw.
Additional Parts You May Need
Budget for a demand regulator, propane hose with quick-connect fittings, and possibly a natural gas adapter for your home connection. The kit includes the carburetor and mounting gaskets, but the fuel delivery components are your responsibility. Total additional cost is typically around 30 to 50 dollars depending on what you already have.
9. NashFuel Tri-Fuel Conversion Kit for Predator 3500 Inverter – Advanced Install
Tri-Fuel Propane Natural Gas Conversion Fits Predator 3500 Inverter
Fits Predator 3500 Inverter
Venturi Design
HP/LP Propane
NG Ready
Case Mod Required
3500W
Pros
- Supports high pressure and low pressure propane plus natural gas
- Venturi adapter included
- Covers Predator 3500 inverter specifically
Cons
- Requires case modification for fuel hose routing
- Significant custom fabrication needed
- Customer service reported as non-responsive
- Missing pieces reported by some buyers
- Long shipping times
The NashFuel tri fuel kit for the Predator 3500 inverter generator is designed for users who are comfortable with custom fabrication and modification. Unlike the Grenergy kits for Honda inverters, this kit requires you to cut or drill into the generator casing to route the alternative fuel supply hose. It is not a plug-and-play installation by any means.
The kit does include a venturi adapter and supports high-pressure propane, low-pressure propane, and low-pressure natural gas. That gives you maximum fuel flexibility once everything is set up. However, the installation process demands patience and mechanical skill. I spent several hours on the fitment alone, making sure the fuel hose routing did not interfere with the inverter housing or cooling airflow.
User reviews are mixed, and the concerns are worth paying attention to. Several buyers reported receiving damaged parts, missing components, and experiencing long shipping delays. Customer service responsiveness appears inconsistent based on the feedback I read across multiple platforms. At a 3.5-star average rating, this kit requires careful consideration before purchasing.
Who Should Consider This Kit
This kit is best suited for experienced DIY mechanics who already own a Predator 3500 inverter and are willing to modify the casing. If you have fabrication skills and the patience to dial in the fuel mixture settings, you can make this work. However, if you want a straightforward installation, you may want to look at other options or consider a generator that has more kit support.
Alternatives to Consider
If the installation complexity concerns you, the Grenergy Honda EU2200i kit offers a much simpler experience for inverter generators. For a Predator-specific option, the YAMAKATO carburetor kits for smaller Predator models provide an easier installation path, though they do not cover the 3500 inverter specifically.
10. KELKONG GX390 Dual Fuel Conversion Kit – Complete Accessory Package
KELKONG GX390 LPG/NG Generator Carburetor Dual Fuel Conversion Kit for Predator 8500 8750 7000 9000 188F 190F Generator Replace for Honda GX270 GX340 389cc 420cc Engine (with air filter)
Fits GX270/GX340/GX390 Engines
Predator 8500/9000 Compatible
Includes Air Filter
1yr Warranty
301-459cc
Pros
- Most complete kit with carburetor
- air filter
- fuel filter
- spark plug
- valve
- and gaskets
- Compatible with wide range of Predator and Generac generators
- Handy drain valve on carburetor bowl
- 1 year manufacturer warranty
- Includes purge button for fuel line
Cons
- May cause surging without proper jet modification
- No instructions included
- Not compatible with 9500 inverter without modification
- Inlet hose barb cannot be replaced with larger hose
The KELKONG GX390 kit stands out for what comes in the box. While most conversion kits include just the carburetor and gaskets, this one throws in an air filter, fuel filter, spark plug, switch, and gaskets. It is essentially a tune-up kit combined with a fuel conversion, which is great value if your generator is due for maintenance anyway.
I installed this on a Predator 9000 with the 420cc engine. The carburetor bolted up without issues, and the included air filter was a nice bonus since the original was overdue for replacement. The drain valve on the carburetor bowl is a small but thoughtful feature that makes winterization and fuel system maintenance much easier than kits without one.
The main issue I encountered was surging at low loads on natural gas. This is a common complaint with carburetor-style conversion kits and usually indicates the fuel jets need adjustment. Some users have resolved this by carefully boring out the jets slightly, but that requires precision tools and experience. On propane, the surging was much less noticeable and the generator ran smoothly under load.
The lack of instructions is frustrating, especially since the NG and LPG setting indicators on the carburetor are not clearly labeled. I had to test both settings to figure out which was which. Once properly configured, the kit delivered reliable dual fuel operation. Just be prepared for some trial and error during the initial setup.
Generator Compatibility List
This kit fits engines based on Honda GX270, GX340, and GX390 designs with displacements from 301cc to 459cc. Compatible generators include Predator 8500, 8750, 7000, and 9000, as well as Generac GP5000 through GP8000E and the Westinghouse WGEN5500, WH5500, and WH7000EC. Always verify your specific model before purchasing.
Getting Past the Surging Issue
If you experience surging on natural gas, start by verifying your fuel pressure is in the correct range using a manometer. If pressure is correct, the issue is likely in the fuel jet sizing. A slightly larger jet will deliver more fuel at idle and eliminate the lean condition that causes surging. This adjustment requires removing the carburetor bowl and carefully modifying the main jet, so consider professional help if you are not comfortable with precision mechanical work.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Tri Fuel Conversion Kit?
Picking the right tri fuel conversion kit comes down to matching three things: your generator model, your mechanical skill level, and your primary fuel preference. Getting any of these wrong means frustration at best and a non-functional conversion at worst.
Compatibility Is the First Check
The single most important step is confirming the kit fits your specific generator. Most kits are designed around engine displacement and carburetor type rather than generator brand. For example, a Honda GX390 clone engine appears in generators from Predator, Generac, Champion, Duromax, and others. If your generator uses a GX390-based engine, any kit designed for that platform should fit regardless of the brand name on the outside. Always check your engine displacement, which is usually printed on a sticker or stamped on the engine block.
For inverter generators like the Honda EU2200i or Predator 3500, compatibility is much more specific. These generators have unique carburetor designs, and you need a kit made for your exact model. Universal kits rarely work on inverter generators without significant modification.
Kit Types: Adapter vs Carburetor Replacement
Tri fuel kits come in two main designs. Adapter kits like the Grenergy and Nashfuel units add a fuel mixing system to your existing carburetor without replacing it. These are generally easier to install and reversible. Carburetor replacement kits like the YAMAKATO and KELKONG models swap out your entire carburetor for one with built-in tri fuel capability. These tend to deliver more precise fuel metering but require more mechanical skill to install.
For first-time converters, I recommend starting with an adapter kit. They are more forgiving during installation and let you switch back to factory configuration if you change your mind.
Understanding Fuel Pressure Requirements
Every tri fuel kit specifies required fuel pressure in either PSI or inches of water column. Natural gas systems typically operate at 7 to 14 inches of water column (about 0.25 to 0.5 psi), which matches residential gas line pressure. Propane systems need similar low pressure, which a demand regulator provides from your propane tank. If your home gas pressure is too low, the generator will surge and produce less power. If it is too high, the engine can flood. A manometer is an inexpensive tool that lets you verify pressure before connecting the generator.
Propane vs Natural Gas vs Gasoline
Each fuel type has trade-offs worth understanding. Gasoline delivers the most power but has a limited shelf life and can be hard to find during emergencies. Propane stores indefinitely, burns cleaner, and is widely available, but produces about 5 to 10 percent less power. Natural gas provides unlimited runtime if connected to a utility line, but delivers the least power of the three and requires proper line sizing from your gas meter to the generator.
For most home backup situations, running on natural gas is the most convenient option if you have a utility connection. For portable and camping use, propane is the clear winner because of storage stability and availability.
Installation Difficulty and Tools
Most conversion kits can be installed with basic hand tools: screwdrivers, pliers, an adjustable wrench, and possibly a drill. Adapter kits typically take 30 to 60 minutes, while carburetor replacement kits may take 1 to 2 hours. If you are not comfortable working with fuel systems, consider having a small engine mechanic handle the installation. The cost is usually reasonable, and you get the peace of mind of a professional setup.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The most common problem after a tri fuel conversion is engine surging on natural gas. This almost always indicates incorrect fuel pressure or a lean fuel mixture. Check your pressure with a manometer first, then adjust the idle mixture screw on the carburetor. If surging persists, the fuel jet may need to be slightly enlarged. Hard starting on propane usually means the fuel line needs priming. Most demand regulators have a primer button for this purpose. If you smell gas, shut down immediately and check all connections with soapy water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a tri-fuel generator worth it?
Yes, a tri-fuel generator is absolutely worth it if you want fuel flexibility during emergencies. Being able to switch between gasoline, propane, and natural gas means you are never stuck waiting for one specific fuel type to become available. Natural gas connects to your utility line for unlimited runtime, propane stores indefinitely without degradation, and gasoline provides maximum power output. For home backup power, the ability to run on natural gas alone makes the conversion worthwhile because you never need to refuel.
Is it cheaper to run your generator on propane or gasoline?
Propane and natural gas are generally cheaper to run per hour than gasoline when you factor in the full cost of gasoline storage. Gasoline requires fuel stabilizer, degrades over time, and can cause carburetor problems if left sitting. Propane stores indefinitely and burns cleaner, reducing maintenance costs over the life of the generator. Natural gas is typically the cheapest option per kilowatt-hour if you have a residential utility connection, since you pay a fixed rate regardless of how much you use for the generator.
How much does a tri-fuel conversion kit cost?
Tri fuel conversion kits range from about 30 dollars for basic carburetor replacement kits to over 300 dollars for premium adapter kits with no-drill installation. The price depends on the kit type, brand, and your generator model. Adapter kits for Honda inverter generators tend to be the most expensive, while universal carburetor kits for larger portable generators are the most affordable. Factor in an additional 30 to 50 dollars for fittings, hoses, and regulators that may not be included.
What is the best brand of tri fuel generator?
The best brands for tri fuel conversion kits are Grenergy for Honda inverter generators, Nashfuel for Generac and Predator models, and YAMAKATO for budget-friendly multi-brand coverage. For pre-built tri fuel generators, Champion and Firman offer factory tri fuel models. The Motor Snorkel by US Carburetion is also highly regarded in forums as an industry leader with patented technology, though it is not always available through major retailers.
Can you convert any generator to tri fuel?
Most gasoline generators can be converted to run on propane and natural gas, but not every generator has a kit available. The key factor is engine type and carburetor design. Generators with Honda GX-series clone engines (GX160, GX200, GX270, GX340, GX390) have the most kit options because these engines are used across dozens of brands. Inverter generators require model-specific kits and are not compatible with universal conversion kits. Always check for a kit designed for your exact generator model before purchasing.
Conclusion
Finding the right tri fuel conversion kit transforms your generator from a single-fuel machine into a versatile backup power system. After testing and researching 10 kits, the Grenergy tri fuel conversion kits stand out for Honda inverter generator owners because of their no-drill installation and premium build quality. For larger portable generators, the YAMAKATO carburetor kits offer solid multi-brand compatibility at a reasonable price point.
The best generator tri fuel conversion kits give you something that gasoline alone cannot: options. Whether you are preparing for storm season, setting up a home backup system, or just want cleaner fuel for camping, converting your generator to run on propane and natural gas is a practical upgrade that pays for itself in convenience and reliability. Pick the kit that matches your generator, set aside an afternoon for installation, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with fuel flexibility in 2026.