Propane cylinder

[Rubix]

Up to now we have used butane but we decided to use the caravan about a month ago and so thought it best to get a propane just in case.

My question is how tight should I tighten the "nut" on the regulator. We have an old type setup with the reg that goes directly on the cylinder (rather then via pigtail) I noticed a very slight smell of gas in the locker a day into our stay. I understood you shouldn't tighten them to death, but as there is no washer (like on a 4.5kg butane) it is metal on metal fit so with any slight imperfections a small leak may be posssible.

I "nipped" the nut up a bit more and the smell appaered to go but as it was bit windy that weekend I can't trust I was down-wind of the leak (if any).

Any advice greatfully received. I can cope with my head being "bitten" off but blown off is a bit messy

 

[Dustydog]

Hi Rubix

We always use propane. I was told by my dealer to ensure the two mating surfaces are clean.

Then using the stupid open ended spanner tighten it as hard as you can. Never had a leak, yet. Can be hard to undo but look at the componets and you will see they are all heavy duty.

If a leak persists, don't take a chance, seek professional advice. Splattered brains was never my favourite dish.

Cheers

Alan

 

[milliesdad]

Hi Rubix,

I had exactly the same problem when i first changed and the dealer said to use some PTFE tape (he even gave me a roll). You can pick it up from any plumbers merchants. Never had a problem since.

Hope this helps.

 

[DeliDave]

If you are by a plumbers merchants by a tin of leak detector either brush or spray,at a push a little diluted washing upliquid would do.I am Corgi reg'd for LPG and ptfe was not suggested as a solution,if both connectors are clean and in good condition should be fine.I use a green scouring pad and a good wiping.

 

[Damian]

Rubix, the fit of the propane bull nose to the cylinder MUST be a perfect fit.

It is not acceptable to use PTFE tape on the male thread as there is no olive in the assembly and whilst it may stop gas escaping via the screw thread, it will not stop it leaking down the stem of the fitting.

Also there are different typs of PTFE , one specially made for LPG installations.

It is best to use a proper spanner, not the flimsy thin excuses of spanners often sold, or a good adjustable is ok.

Check the bull nose of the regulator to cylinder for scores or damage and also the seating on the cylinder.

If either are damaged, do not use them.

 

[Dave_374330759]

If you feel unhappy about the seal that you are getting, have a look round for a regulator that has a rubber tip and a handwheel. Have a look at the Europa 5 on this page

http://www.caravanning-online.co.uk/acatalog/gas_regulators.html
I fitted one to our last van and it makes it everso easy to change cylinders without the use of any tools. They are only about

 

[gary]

How tight? as tight as you need to get it so it does not leak, what I'm saying is you won't break it but you might damage your knuckles trying!!

In truth I use a large 14" adjustable and the last bottle I connected needed a lot of force to seal it but you should never use PTFE or any other sealant for that matter. If you cannot seal it, check your regulator nose for 'bruising'(damage)incase that's at fault, and if that seems ok then return the bottle as faulty.

 

[ProfJohnL]

A quick tip:

Spray some WD40 onto an old toothbrush, and use it to thoroughly clean the brass threads of the coupling. Not only does this help to remove detritus but it lightly lubricates and helps with easy tightening.

 

[david_374333798]

A quick tip:

Spray some WD40 onto an old toothbrush, and use it to thoroughly clean the brass threads of the coupling. Not only does this help to remove detritus but it lightly lubricates and helps with easy tightening.

you can buy a better spanner at a calor dealer.its stronger than the shiny thin one most caravan shops sell.also once tight run a small amount of washing up liquid around thread to check for leaks NEVER a match.