I've been wondering a similar question. I use the 20 lb exchange cylinders on my trailer. They come with a peel off plastic cover over the tank connection. Is there anything I can screw on to keep dirt and dust from getting in there?
I've been wondering a similar question. I use the 20 lb exchange cylinders on my trailer. They come with a peel off plastic cover over the tank connection. Is there anything I can screw on to keep dirt and dust from getting in there?
My propane tank is a vintage Manchester 13 lb. (3 gal.) horizontal ASME tank that was often used in marine applications. Unlike current DOT propane cylinders, it does not have an OPD (overflow protection device) and Acme nut. Instead, it has the traditional check valve to prevent overflow and a POL connector. As such, it requires additional care to be sure the valve is closed (no automatic shutoff in the valve), however these valves were used for decades with very few incidents and are not inherently unsafe.
Manchester shows horizontal DOT cylinders and ASME tanks on its website, however they are pricey. Also, the shape has changed and look more like a vertical tank placed on its side (although configured specifically for horizontal use).
You can still find tanks like mine on the used market at old school trailer supply yards and marine surplus outfits. Might take awhile, but they do pop up from time to time.
Last edited by Robert Bills; 05-31-2012 at 07:07 PM.
Robert Bills
Shasta County, California
KG6LMV
'05 Nissan Xterra Off Road
'46 Bantam T3-C trailer
I did have road debris rip a hole in one of my scepter gas tanks ? Not sure what it would have done to a propane or what it was ?
I say put some armor on things exposed to stuff flying off the rear wheels![]()
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ASME rated tanks do not require OPD devices or the Acme nut. DOT rated cylinders do. I've only had one instance where a vendor's employee didn't want to fill my tank (at a gas station). He had absolutely no training and had never seen a horizontal tank except the ones permanently mounted in motorhomes. All I had to say was that my tank was just like the horizontal tanks in motorhomes except smaller and externally mounted, then no problem.
Robert Bills
Shasta County, California
KG6LMV
'05 Nissan Xterra Off Road
'46 Bantam T3-C trailer
I have a slightly smaller version I bought last year that I am going to be using, you just gave me the info I needed when I wasn't even looking for it, thanks! Did you have to use an adapter of some sort, because isn't the thread left-handed on the older bottles or am I mistaken?
The OPD is NOT needed/req'd on Industrial DOT cylinders either. Hence, I have an aluminum forklift tank(33lb). Has the 1.25 Acme(can be filled from a bulk truck if needed), liquid withdrawl valve, and a POL valve. I dont need that OPD nonsense, since it is an Industrial Cylinder. Now, I can mount it either vertical OR horizontal(due to the location and design of the pressure relief).
My tank being aluminum, I would be more cautious on location though...
As far as ripping a hole in a propane tank(steel)... a lot harder than you think... though....I tend to err on the side of caution....
Chase
98 Rodeo
2011 Chevy Quigley... company truck.
01 Ram, w/ 12v/nv4500/4x4 and stuff. SOLD
I'm using an old style regulator with left hand thread. They are still available, but not everywhere. I once googled adaptors so I could use an Acme nut with a new 2-stage regulator with ports for both high and low pressure (all of my existing propane appliances are vintage and low pressure, but the Partner stove I lust after and most modern lanterns are high pressure). I don't recall finding exactly what I want, but I didn't look very hard. If anyone has a link to a good site for propane adaptors and regulators, it would be much appreciated since this discussion has renewed my interest in improving my system.
Robert Bills
Shasta County, California
KG6LMV
'05 Nissan Xterra Off Road
'46 Bantam T3-C trailer
Thanks guys, makes me feel better about my decision, I might build a shield to attach where the valve sits but other than that I think I'm good to go.
Jim
2008 FJ Cruiser TT, 3" lift, TG Sliders, FJ ToyBox drawer system, Cobra CB, Engle 45, Modified 1966 M-416 trailer with Camping Lab RTT.