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Date:         Sat, 6 Jun 2009 14:18:56 -0800
Reply-To:     colorworks@GCI.NET
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Troy <colorworks@GCI.NET>
Subject:      Propex and getting gas tight fittings
Comments: To: wiebeis@SHAW.CA
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=Windows-1252

<<I recently decided to go for a Propex heater for my 1990 Wesfalia. I = ordered it from Frank Condelli and got quick efficient service. Thanks, = Frank. =20 I have installed it into that little space just before the Water tank. = It is very tight and one has to move the electrics around a bit. It is = in, but here is my problem. I put in a tee joint on the fridge propane = line under the sink area. How does one get non leaky joints on these = lines? I understand one is not to use Teflon tape and one is not to = over tighten the nuts. What is the secret to getting them gas tight? Any help appreciated.

Ed Wiebe>>

Hi Ed:

I don't know there's a secret, other than using flare fittings and doing them correctly. I would stay away from compression fittings which are notorious for leaking over time. Personally I would have put the joint by the tank, added a tee there, instead of behind the refrigerator which is awkward to get at, and I would rather have a leak outside than inside, and guess where you are most likely to get a leak;) If it was me I would rethink this and put the tee outside-- far easier to get at. Run your line through the van floor with a gromet. Just get yourself a good flaring kit, practice on a couple of scrap pieces if you must, but basically they're pretty easy. Do not over tighten the nut, maybe 30 or 40 foot pounds, although I don't know on official torque. As with any propane fittings it is a good idea to use some soapy water after installation to ensure you don't have any leaks. Mixing up some common dishwashing detergent to the consistency of maple syrup works well, applied liberally with a brush and look for bubbles. Apply a little additional torque if necessary. Generally, using two wrenches is preferred, one to hold the fitting and one to hold the nut. Propane is odorless, although there is a nasty smelling chemical added to it, so let your nose be your guide as well. I had an intermediate leaky valves that passed the soap test, but I could still smell propane. Eventually I figured out the valve was leaking intermittently, and once replaced all was well. Until you are sure you got everything tightend down I would not store the van indoors.

Troy


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