Date: Fri, 27 Apr 2007 23:03:14 -0700
Reply-To: Gerald Masar <azsun99@EARTHLINK.NET>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Gerald Masar <azsun99@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject: Propex heater
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I recently installed a Propex HS 2000 in my '90 Westy, and increased the gas pressure
to the recommended 13"W.C. It is wired to the aux battery under the driver's seat and
I also installed a connection to run it off of an external power pack if necessary. I
have two propane tanks. I don't do cold very well :(.
So, a shakedown cruise was made last week, to the South Rim of The Grand Canyon.
Elevation just under 7,000', daytime temps in 50's and 60's, and nighttime into the
20's and 30's, and one day of cold, miserable gale-force winds. Nice to be able to
stay inside and stay warm. So far, so good.
On the 3rd morning, woke up to see the LED flashing code for low battery. Switch to
the other battery and back in business.
On the fourth morning, woke up to see LED flashing code for no gas. Okay, well the
stove still worked, but switched to the other tank anyway. Now, not okay. Still says
no gas. Switched unit off and on several times, switched tanks, still no go.
On the way home, stopped for lunch and tried it again on #1 tank. Now it works and is
still working.
QUESTIONS:
Has anyone else experienced intermittent operation under similar conditions?
I hope it isn't altitude related, because some of my favorite campgrounds are at
9,000' and 10,000'.
The instruction manual says that the red LED should dim after set temp is reached,
indicating unit is in standby. Mine doesn't, does yours?
The noise of the burner, at least until the fan speeds up and masks it, I would
describe as kind of a growling noise, not a smooth sound. What does yours sound like?
A phone call to PropexUSA so far has been inconclusive.
Oh yes, the trip otherwise was great. My campsite was invaded one afternoon by about
20 elk. Had some good views of a couple of condors soaring close overhead. You really
have to keep an eye out for them, but they are there.
One of the guys behind the window at the campground check-in drives a Vanagon.
The campground was never full and seldom even crowded.
Stay out of the clothing section of the market. Went in for a box of cereal and came
out with some really nice Mountain Khakis pants. Don't ask $$.
Jerry, in Arizona (where else?), less than half a day from the rim. It was 90º here at
home, but I still want reliable heat when I need it.
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