Propane Mounting/Heating Questions

[erod]

I just bought a portable buddy ($74.99 made by Mr. Heater) (http://www.mrheater.com/productdetails_extended.asp?catid=41&id=24) heater for my Wildernest camper this winter. It runs off 1 lb or 20 lb propane tanks...seems like this is the time of year to throw winter camping and heating inquires out there for comment and advice.
Scott and Chris, your expedition sounds awesome and I am looking forward to monitioring your adventures. My question pertains to the possible mounting of a propane tank (20 lb) on my rear bumper for the winter. I would remove it while driving, however, I would like to have it handy and close to the truck while sleeping since my hose attatchment is only 5 ft long an I will want to turn it off before I fall asleep...also, does any one have pics of tarp set ups in the winter, more specifically, one on a Wildernest (daveindenver?)? I remember reading about someone using a tarp over their Wilderenst in a forum somewhere...thinking this may be an option to keep snow and moisture off the tent. I am also wondering if there are some good threads out there on this topic...but I posted this first. Thanks in advance to any input...cheers!

[Kermit]

If you have a receiver hitch, just make a mount, that slides onto that. Simple, cheap, within easy reach.

From what I read about it, it "shouldn't" gas you to death, with the oxygen senser switch.

I want one, and your Wildernest... ;)

[njtaco]

A few thoughts on mounting the tank...

First, you I don't think you are limited to 5 feet, there are extensions available, IIRC. From your link: "• F273702 - 12ft. Propane Hose Assembly
(Swivel 1” - 20 Male throwaway Cyl. Thd. X P.O.L. w/ Handwheel)"

Second, mount the tank so the pressure release (relief?) is directed away from the truck, whether using the propane at the time or not. I've seen them vent spontaneously, a potentially dangerous circumstance. This is worth noting if you use a 20Lb to run a stove, grill, or smoker, too.

Third, and sort of obvious, mount vertical tanks verically, and horizontal tanks, well, the other way. Newer tanks may not even work if not oriented properly.

Your RV dealer sells a single tank mount, too. I believe it to be illegal to lock a portable tank to a vehicle, in case of fire. That may be local to me, though. That does not apply to belly (DOT spec) tanks, of course.

[erod]

Thanks for the input!