Date:         Fri, 5 Dec 2003 06:19:28 -0500
Reply-To:     Dennis Haynes <dhaynes@OPTONLINE.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Dennis Haynes <dhaynes@OPTONLINE.NET>
Subject:      Re: LP regulator question
Comments: To: kennedy@THERIVER.COM
In-Reply-To:  <3135.67.251.132.211.1070576778.squirrel@www.theriver.com>
Content-type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII

Connecting two propane tanks together after the regulators is definatley
the wrong way to go. The problem is if the two regulators are not
exactly matched, one of them will vent. They make dual tank regulators
that also will automatically switch from one tank to the other. They
usually have an indicator to let you know when this occurs. This is the
correct way to do it. Another option is to install check valves after
both regulators so one tank can not feed into the other.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of Jeff Kennedy
Sent: Thursday, December 04, 2003 5:26 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: LP regulator question

OK, I got the second propane tank in, and connected it to the original
with copper tubing and compression fittings. No leaks! Except at the
pressure regulator. Each tank has a regulator, they are connected
downstream of the regulator on the original tank (basically following
the
directions of R. Jones (?)).

Now, when I open the valve on the original tank, LP gas escapes from the
a
vent on the regulator on the second tank. This regulator is different
from
the original one, and I'm not familiar with it - it has a small circular
screen facing down, with a cover riveted to the stone guard. It has a
white threaded cap covering a clear plastic cap which holds a spring
down
against a pressure relief valve, I presume.

So, my best guess is its time for a new regulator. Anyone else care to
speculate? (And save me $30? Please?)

cheers,
Jeff in Missoula, where its far too cold to be doing this sort of thing
without a garage...