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Topic: Bypassing the onboard propane tank (Read 621 times) previous topic - next topic
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Bypassing the onboard propane tank
First let me say that I'm a full timer and use my propane daily.

I've had a leak in the propane valve on the tank for awhile now.  Fortunately, it only leaks when the valve is open, so I keep it closed unless I'm getting ready to shower.  I can feel the leak from the valve when I turn it on, so the valve needs to be replaced.  I need to empty the tank and drop it and take it to a propane shop; nobody around here will work on these when mounted on the RV. 

I have another portable tank and a high pressure extension hose.  To bypass the tank, I'm planning on popping the plastic rivets on the regulator, loosening the downstream connection after the regulator, and pivoting the regulator out a bit so I can connect the extension hose.  The intent is to have propane while the tank is dropped and worked on.  The pic that I've attached to this message details this.

Just wondering if anyone has done this before, had any issues, or if anyone has any advice.   Thank you so much!

2002 Rear Bath
Re: Bypassing the onboard propane tank
Reply #1 –
I know my limitations, and I know the dangers of a propane leak.  I would not mess with it on my own.  I would make an appointment for the repair, then empty and drop the tank and have it fixed, then re-connect it, no Mickey Mouse stuff.  Just my humble opinion...

Ken F in WY
'08 MB
Re: Bypassing the onboard propane tank
Reply #2 –
 Ken’s “opinion” is sound advice, IMO. Propane is volatile, and a leak anywhere in the system can lead to some very ugly outcomes. I would not attempt any work-around
kludge as a repair “bridge”. Good luck wishes for a fast and complete professional fix!

As ever, YMMV.
2003 TK has a new home
Re: Bypassing the onboard propane tank
Reply #3 –
Oh boy! Never have run into your situation but perhaps I can offer some help!

First, I have a 4 Way Tee connected into my LP supply line at the output of the main tank. Unused it allows the LP to pass directly to the regulator as it would were the Tee not there. On the other hand it allows me to connect an auxiliary tank to provide LP in the case the main tank were empty, or missing. The fourth leg of the Tee allows for a take off of fuel to be used by a BBQ or lantern.

It appears to me you would need some sort of cap to plug the input of the Tee while your main tank is being repaired. Or perhaps the Tee has it's own 'back flow valve' installed during manufacture, that I do not know.

I'd like to suggest that you search around your local area for a bulk propane dealership, such as Amerigas, to see if they will and can dismount your main tank. I have had my local bulk LP dealer do a lot of work on my rig that I would not have attempted myself.  :o


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFslRIIX8so

https://www.etrailer.com/Propane/Camco/CAM59113.html
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
Re: Bypassing the onboard propane tank
Reply #4 –
I agree with finding a large propane dealer that sells and services tanks.
It may be possible to replace the valve without removing the tank. A dealer should have the knowledge and special tools needed.  After the tank has been evacuated, it can be purge with a non-flammable gas, such as CO2, then the work can be safely performed without worry about sparks.

Let us know how this turns out, I would like to change our LD's tank's valve, it seals fine but makes a humming noise when larger amounts of propane are being consumed.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Bypassing the onboard propane tank
Reply #5 –
I agree that if you're going to get the valve fixed anyway, getting on with it and skipping the alternate hookup is a good plan.  Someone can work on the tank while attached to the RV. 

Your plan sounds reasonable though, as long as you can support the regulator and reduce the strain on the line you have labeled as 'loosen for pivoting'. 

I don't think the flare nut shown on the left side of your picture will connect to the POL on the regulator (the part that screws into the valve) without some extra parts and pieces though.  My strategy would be to attach the regulator directly to the tank, and then run a lower pressure hose under the coach and up to the 'loosen for pivoting' connection. 

First, I'd call far and wide to find someone who would swap the valve with the tank in place.

Rich
'03 MB in NC
2003 MB
Re: Bypassing the onboard propane tank
Reply #6 –
Curiosity more than anything here as I agree that propane is a dangerous gas. Our old Tioga MH's shut off on the tank had a leaking valve stem. Once it was open all the way it would seal the stem and leak would stop, much like an acetylene bottle which seals when backed all the way out. Are you experiencing the same thing here?

Jon
1994 MB
Re: Bypassing the onboard propane tank
Reply #7 –
Jon, my understanding has always been that a propane valve should be either fully open or fully closed, because it can leak if opened partway. So perhaps your Tioga was not unusual ...?
Andy Baird
2021 Ford Ranger towing 2019 Airstream 19CB
Previously: 1985 LD Twin/King "Gertie"; 2003 LD Midbath "Skylark"
Re: Bypassing the onboard propane tank
Reply #8 –
This is the way I did it avoiding the moving of the regulator. Use of the yellow tape is not recommended but I got away with it. It has worked fine for several years.
Harry 2006RB
Re: Bypassing the onboard propane tank
Reply #9 –
Yellow *is* the appropriate tape color for gas and propane connections, as far as I know.
2003 TK has a new home
Re: Bypassing the onboard propane tank
Reply #10 –
Quote from: Joan  - 
Yellow *is* the appropriate tape color for gas and propane connections, as far as I know.
Yes, but tape has a propensity to break off in little bits and block the regulator. It must be used with care.
Harry 2006RB
Re: Bypassing the onboard propane tank
Reply #11 –
Quote from: Joan  - 
Yellow *is* the appropriate tape color for gas and propane connections, as far as I know.

White Teflon tape is thinner and is not recommended for propane, the yellow tape is the appropriate tape for propane and natural gas. The yellow tape is thicker than the white, the roll should indicate it is for gas usage.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Oatey-1-2-in-x-260-in-Yellow-PTFE-Tape-31403D/202078116

A paste pipe thread sealant works well too and doesn't break off and clog regulators.
A $4 tube from Home Depot will complete many projects
https://www.homedepot.com/p/RectorSeal-1-75-oz-5-Pipe-Thread-Sealant-25790/100144191

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
 
Re: Bypassing the onboard propane tank
Reply #12 –
Thanks for everyone's help and replies.  I took the wise path and took it into an RV place that dropped the tank and then had it repaired by a local propane shop.  I was without the rig for a few days, but it was worth it, brand new valve and no leak now.  Thanks again.
2002 Rear Bath