Propane tanks...

Hey folks:

It seems that with my 31QBH, my right side connection is just loose enough that my propane detector goes *bonkers* after we've hooked up and have our feet down no matter how tight I hand tighten the connection. I really don't want to use a pair of channel locks even if for 1/8th of a turn. But I'd like to be able to have heat when needed and use the fridge under propane when needed as well.

I looked and "Googled" the problem and it would seem that the obvious solution of teflon tape is not recommended for the reasons that if a very small piece breaks off and gets into the line it can create issues down stream of the tank, some potentially expensive. I gleaned this from what may have been more "pluming oriented" forums as the context was using teflon tape in making the connection between an appliance and a natural gas source.

None the less, I'm sure others may have this issue, and I'd welcome advice.

David

How have you determined that the leak is at the tank? You said "after we've hooked up"; are you disconnected the lines to the tank every time you move? You should not.

I don't think your propane detector would go off for a leak outside the trailer unless windows are open and the wind is just right.

I would take it to a propane dealer (Amerigas, etc). They are equipped with leak detectors that can find your problem. If it is the fitting, they can replace it.

If you have determined it is the right tank, mix dish liquid with water in a spray bottle and spray in on the area with the tank turned on. It you see bubbles you know you have a leak. Some hair spray and other stuff can set it off. Hope this helps.

Did you check the o-ring on the end of the male connection if this is damaged or missing you will get a small leak of this nature. I also agree with the others the propane tanks are on the exterior and usually open at the bottom of the compartment, if your propane alarm is going off you may have a leak somewhere else on the inside of the unit. Propane is heaver then air so it sinks to the ground or towards the floor. Nothing to fool with BOOM is not good.

scottz wrote:How have you determined that the leak is at the tank? You said "after we've hooked up"; are you disconnected the lines to the tank every time you move? You should not.

I don't think your propane detector would go off for a leak outside the trailer unless windows are open and the wind is just right.

I would take it to a propane dealer (Amerigas, etc). They are equipped with leak detectors that can find your problem. If it is the fitting, they can replace it.

No... all is connected. I have one tank on for the fridge while traveling. The situation is that the tanks (at the front) are next to a storage compartment that has a vent at the base of the stairs leading up into the master bedroom. When I opened the cabinet where the right side tank is, I caught a whiff of propane. I turned it off, flipped the switch to the left tank and turned it on. No problems after I did that.

Something tells me I need to check the O-ring on the left side based on subsequent posts.

David

Ole Yella wrote:If you have determined it is the right tank, mix dish liquid with water in a spray bottle and spray in on the area with the tank turned on. It you see bubbles you know you have a leak. Some hair spray and other stuff can set it off. Hope this helps.

Yes... other things can and do set it off. Salesman said to watch where we stepped as various manures will trip the natural gas detector. We were going to do some fireworks and little did I know that acquired son placed a wrapped up but used firework mortar launcher right next to the CO detector... OY VEY... once removed, the alarm stopped going off about 15 mins later.

David

dchaviland wrote:Something tells me I need to check the O-ring on the left side based on subsequent posts. David

Sounds like a plan; let us know how it works out.