Welcome to our Propane System Design Guide! We personally decided to go with propane in our van because propane packs WAY more energy than a battery: for example, our BBQ tank gives us two months of cooking and hot showers before we have to refill it, while a battery would have to be recharged after only a few hours and would require costly upgrades just to make it work… For full time vanlife like we’re doing, it’s a no brainer. In the following guide, we will build our knowledge so we can design and build a safe propane system. Keep reading!
Table Of Content
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click a product link and buy anything from the merchant (Amazon, eBay, etc.) we will receive a commission fee. The price you pay remains the same, affiliate link or not.
1- Campervan Propane System In A Nutshell
The Atwood range, hot shower, and Propex heater are appliances that run on propane in our van:
1.1- Propane System Diagram
1.2- Items List
| Component | Description | Quantity | Buy Link |
| MAIN | |||
| Propane Tank | See “Propane Tank” section | 1 | Amazon |
| Hose: Acme x 1/4″ Male NPT (1 feet) | Propane tank to regulator | 1 | Amazon |
| Regulator: Two Stage, 11 W.C. | It’s an horizontal regulator, so it should be horizontal! | 1 | Amazon |
| Elbow: 3/8″ Flare Male x 3/8″ MPT | We used an elbow so the regulator fits into the vented locker. | 1 | Amazon |
| Hose: 3/8″ Flare Female (both sides) | Regulator to Bulkhead Union | 1 | Amazon |
| Bulkhead Union Fitting: 3/8″ Flare Male (both sides) | This is to go through the vented locker while keeping a tight seal. | 1 | Amazon |
| Swivel: 3/8″ Female Flare (both sides) | This is to connect the bulkhead fitting to a cross (or a tee). | 1 | Amazon |
| Cross: 3/8″ Male Flare (all sides) | Use this if you have 3 appliances to connect. | As Required | Amazon |
| Tee: 3/8″ Male Flare (all sides) | Use this if you have 2 appliances to connect. | Amazon | |
| None | Use none if you only have 1 appliance to connect. (and delete the Swivel 3/8″ Female Flare as well). | N/A | |
| Solenoid Shut Off Valve 12V | |||
| Solenoid, 12V | To open/close the propane remotely | 1 | Amazon |
| Push-Button Switch | To energize the solenoid | 1 | Amazon |
| Pigtail | To wire the push-button switch | 1 | Amazon |
| 90 Degrees Fitting | So the regulator / solenoid assembly fit in the locker | 1 | Amazon |
| MISC: wire, terminal rings, closed end terminals, quick disconnects, silicone… | |||
| Low Pressure Gauge | |||
| Low Pressure Gauge 15″ WC | Our system nominal pressure is 11″ WC, so we chose a gauge that goes up to 15″ WC. | 1 | Amazon |
| Tee, 1/4″ x 1/4″ x 1/4″ NPT Female | To add a new port for the gauge… | 1 | Amazon |
| 3/8″ Flare Female to 1/4″ MPT | To connect to the 3/8″ flared cross and bulkhead fitting | 2 | Amazon |
| 1 lb Bottle Adapter (High-Pressure) -Optional- | |||
| Tee: 1/4″ FPT x 1/4″ FPT x 1/4″ MPT | This is to split the line coming from the tank into two lines: one going to the regulator (low pressure), one going to the 1 lb bottle adapter (high-pressure). | 1 | Amazon |
| Adapter: 1/4 MPT x 1″-20 Male | 1 | Amazon | |
| Extension Hose: 1″-20 Female to 1″-20 Male | 1 | Amazon | |
| Eccotemp Hot shower (Buy on Amazon) | |||
| Gas Valve: 1/2 NPT to 3/8 Flare Male | This valve connects directly to the Eccotemp. | 1 | Amazon |
| Flexible Copper Tubing: 3/8″ O.D. | Length As Required | Amazon | |
| Flare Nut: 3/8″ O.D. | 1 side connected to the gas valve, 1 side to the cross. | 2 | Amazon |
| Propex HS2000 Heater (dealer locator) | |||
| Flexible Copper Tubing: 1/4″ O.D. | The Propex requires 1/4″ O.D. per manual! | Length As Required | Amazon |
| Flare Nut: 1/4″ O.D. | 1 | Amazon | |
| Reducer: 3/8″ Female Flare to 1/4″ Male Flare | This is to connect the 1/4″ copper tubing the to cross. | 1 | Amazon |
| Note that the Propex HS2000 includes a compression nut to connect the 1/4″ line to it. | |||
| Atwood Range (Buy on Amazon) | |||
| Flexible Copper Tubing: 3/8″ O.D. | Length As Required | Amazon | |
| Flare Nut: 3/8″ O.D. | 4 | Amazon | |
| Gas Valve: 3/8″ Flare Male (both sides) | 1 | Amazon | |
2- The cost of going all electric (no propane)
2.1- Propane Pros & Cons
Working on it. Coming soon!
2.2- All electric VS propane cost comparison
Working on it. Coming soon!
3.1- What size?
Choosing the right propane tank size totally depends on what appliances you run and what autonomy you want (days/months with no refill). As a rough guideline, and to help you make a decision, here is our usage living full-time in the van:
- We don’t know the exact consumption of each appliance, but we know that using our Atwood Range every day (oven & stove) and using our Eccotemp shower every other day or so, our 20 pound propane tank lasts roughly 2 months.
- We don’t use our Propex heater much (we prefer to use our Webasto Air Top 2000), but the consumption is 1 pound of propane every 3 hours (remember it cycles though, it’s not running full-time). Our autonomy definitely shrinks a lot if we use the Propex.
3.2- Tank Types
3.2.1- Disposable bottle
The 1 pound disposable bottles are OK for occasional camping trips, but expensive and not environmentally friendly in the long run…
Here’s a tip: Any appliance that normally requires small camping propane bottles (camp stove, Mr. Heater Buddy, etc.) can be used with a larger tank (5, 11, 20 pound), thanks to the following adapter. One side connects directly to the propane tank, the other side connects directly to the appliance. No regulator needed. It’s much more economical!
3.2.2- Steel Propane Tank
Also known as a “BBQ Tank”… no explanation needed! OK, here’s a picture just in case…
They’re easy to find in 5, 11 or 20 pound (or more). Here are some common specifications:
* Note that tanks are not filled to their max capacity; this is to leave room for vapor expansion. For example, a 20 pound tank will generally be filled to approx 18 pound.
** Vertical tanks must not be installed horizontally. If the orientation is not correct liquid propane will be collected instead of vapor (LP gas).
| Description | Capacity (lb) | Capacity (gal) | Diameter (in) | Height (in) | Empty Weight (lb) | Full Weight (lb) | Buy Link |
| 5 Pound Vertical** | 5* | 1.2 | 9 | 12 | 10 | 15 | Amazon |
| 11 Pound Vertical | 11* | 2.6 | 12.2 | 12.4 | 14 | 25 | Amazon |
| 11 Pound Vertical | 11* | 2.6 | 9.25 | 17 | 14 | 25 | Amazon |
| 20 Pound Vertical | 20* | 4.6 | 12.25 | 17.75 | 18 | 38 | Amazon |
3.2.3- Aluminum Propane Tank
“BBQ Tanks” are also available in aluminum with the following characteristics:
- Lighter than steel (approximately 3 pounds lighter for 2.6 gallon capacity, 5 pounds lighter for 4.6 gallon capacity)
- Does not rust
- Does not spark if ruptured
- Does not have to be painted
- More expensive
They’re easy to find in 10 or 20 pound. Here are some common specifications:
* Vertical tanks must not be installed horizontally. If the orientation is not correct liquid propane will be collected instead of vapor (LP gas).
3.2.4- Composite (Fiberglass) Propane Tank
Here’s a fancy option to impress your neighbors:
- Lighter than steel and aluminum
- See-through (no guesswork to know when to refill)
- Does not rust
- DOT approved for US and Canada
- Must be re-certified every 5 years (from the date of manufacture, not from the purchase date)
- Because it’s not common, some people reported that it makes it harder to re-fill or re-certify.
They’re easy to find in 11, 17, or 22 pound. Here are some common specifications:
* Vertical tanks must not be installed horizontally. If the orientation is not correct liquid propane will be collected instead of vapor (LP gas).
3.2.5- Underbody Propane Tank
- Underbody tanks are either built to ASME or DOT standard. Tanks built to ASME specification don’t require re-certification, as opposed to DOT specs that requires re-certification after 10 years initially and then every 5 years. Therefore, if we were to install an underbody tank, we would choose a tank built to the ASME standard…
- On a side note: portable tanks (such as BBQ tanks) are all built to the DOT standard because the ASME tanks are designed to be stationary and cannot be transported when full.
- Make sure to choose a size that will fit into an underbody cavity. Sorry we can’t help with that because we haven’t installed one ourselves, but here is a legit installation write-up on a Ford Transit: www.fordtransitusaforum.com/170338-post42.html
* ASME tanks don’t require to be re-certified (permanent).
| Description | Capacity (gal) | Diameter (in) | Length (in) | Empty Weight (lb) | Buy Link |
| 7.9 gallon ASME | 7.9 | 10 | 32 | 52 | Campervan-HQ |
| 11.2 gallon ASME | 11.28 | 12 | 32 | 72 | Campervan-HQ |
| Description | Diameter (in) | Length (in) | Buy Link |
| 7.9 gallon ASME | 10 | 32 | Campervan-HQ |
| 11.2 gallon ASME | 12 | 32 | Campervan-HQ |
4- Vented Tank Locker
The pressure inside a tank increases with higher temperature and/or elevation. Too much pressure can also be the result of overfilling the tank. If the pressure becomes too high for the tank’s capacity, excessive pressure will be released through the pressure relief valve. Note that even if the tank’s main valve is completely shut, the pressure relief valve can still release pressure.
Because of the greenhouse effect and because of the change in elevation (when driving), a tank located inside a van is subject to large pressure variation. That’s why we built a vented propane locker to store our propane tank in our van. If the tank was to release pressure, it would be evacuated outside the van!
What about the laws? When transporting a propane tank inside a vehicle, Canadian laws mention that it must be vented (cracked windows or partially opened trunk). We couldn’t find such mention in the USA laws, but there are rumors California laws mention it, too (please tell us if you know where to find such a mention). Law or not, for us it just made sense to build a vented propane locker!
A quick word about the locker access door:
- Propane is heavier than air and will “pool” (sink) to the bottom of the locker.
- It is REALLY HARD to make an access door that’s 100% sealed.
Because of A+B, the propane locker should be top loading. It’s an extra safety measure to minimize the risk. Indeed, if the access door leaks, propane will leak through the door instead of being evacuated through the vent! We see more and more side-loading propane lockers on YouTube and social networks, and that makes us a bit nervous. Even if it is more convenient, a side-loading propane locker is not ABYC compliant. Vans don’t actually need to comply with ABYC, but we see them as having THE highest safety standards; therefore, we like to stick to them.
5- Regulator
A tank delivers the propane at high pressure (from 100 up to 315 psi depending on temperature and elevation). However, most appliances require low pressure (aka “LP”): 11 Water Column (or 11 W.C.) pressure is the norm in RV systems (11 W.C. = 0.4 PSI). The role of the regulator is to deliver a stable 11 W.C. pressure to the appliances.
5.1- Single Stage Regulator
A single stage regulator reduces the pressure to 11 W.C. in one step. They’re more compact than two stage regulators, but not as accurate and usually not approved for use in RV’s.
5.2- Two Stage Regulator
A two stage regulator reduces the pressure in two steps. Compared to one stage regulators, they are better at delivering constant 11 W.C. pressure with temperature changes and as the tank pressure declines. Two stage regulators are not significantly more expensive than one stage and are approved for use in RV’s, so that’s what we recommend:
- Marshall Excelsior MERG-291 (vertical): Buy on Amazon
- Marshall Excelsior MERG-295 (horizontal with removable POL adapter): Buy on Amazon
- Marshall Excelsior MERG-298 (horizontal): Buy on Amazon
- Please AVOID Camco regulators, we had a lot of issues with them (and many people reported that as well)
5.3- High Pressure (No Regulator)
Appliances that use small 1 pound bottles have their own built-in regulator. Camping stoves, Mr. Buddy heaters, Mr Buddy BOSS showers, among others, work with high pressure. They can be hooked to a full-size propane tank (5#, 11#, 20#, etc.) with an adapter:
6.1- Tubing Material
Using flexible (rubber) hoses is not recommended as they are not approved for permanent interior installation (they are approved for marine applications, but that’s a different story). Don’t use them outside either as critters like to chew on them!
Use flexible copper tubing with flared fittings. It’s resistant to vibration and sharp edges, and it doesn’t deteriorate with time (as opposed to rubber hose).
6.2- Tubing Size
It’s important to select the correct tubing diameter to prevent pressure drop. The correct diameter depends on:
- Max Pressure Drop Acceptable (1/2 W.C. drop is the norm)
- System Pressure (hint: it’s 11 W.C. for most RV appliances such as the Atwood Range, Propex Heater, Eccotemp Hot Shower, etc)
- Length of tubing (varies according to your installation)
- Capacity (BTU/hrs)
Capacity (BTU/hrs) in function of Tubing Length and Outside Diameter for Flexible Copper Tubing at a pressure of 11 W.C:
| Copper Tubing O.D. (in) | Length of tubing between the regulator and the appliance (feet) | ||
| 10 | 20 | 30 | |
| 3/8 | 49,000 BTU/hrs | 34,000 BTU/hrs | 27,000 BTU/hrs |
| 1/2 | 110,000 BTU/hrs | 76,000 BTU/hrs | 61,000 BTU/hrs |
- The Atwood Range has a max of 32,000 BTU/hrs (all 3 burners and oven working simultaneously), so we’re allowed 20 feet of 3/8″ O.D. copper tubing.
- The Eccotemp shower is rated 37,000 BTU/hrs, so we’re allowed about 15 feet of 3/8″ O.D. copper tubing.
- Bottom line: we will use 3/8″ O.D. copper tubing all over! It should be alright for most van installation…
6.3- Bending Tubing
Bending the tubing by hand is “OK” (but not ideal) for light bends, but it will most likely create “kinks” for anything more than 45 degrees (kinks are bad because they restrict the flow of gas). It can be prevented, you guessed it, by using the proper tool for the job:
7- Leak-Free Connections
7.1- Flared connections
Flared connections are the preferred type, and they are standard in North-America. Flared fittings have a 45 degree chamfer (male or female) that seal the deal. They do not require thread sealant or tape.
To make a flared connection with copper tubing:
2- Insert the Flare Nut into the tubing:
Note: Select the appropriate flare nut according to the tubing O.D.; for example, use 3/8" O.D. flare nut with 3/8" O.D. copper tubing.
3- Form the flange using a Flaring Tool:
Note: First make sure the cut is deburred; any burrs that become compressed will leak.
4- Voilà!
It should look like this!
7.2- Pipe (NPT) conneCtions
Some appliances or regulators come with NPT connections. NPT fittings don’t have a 45 degree chamfer (see “Not Flared” picture). They require thread sealant (aka “DOPE”, Buy on Amazon) or yellow tape (Buy on Amazon). Do NOT use white Teflon tape! It’s made for water systems, so it will leak gas as it’s not thick enough.
7.3- Compression fittings with olive
These are NOT common in North-America and should be avoided! They’re mostly designed for liquid or compressed air (not gas). Note that the Propex HS2000 comes with this type of connection; that’s the only place we have one in our system…
8.1- Manual valve
For safety sake, we recommended installing a valve (easily accessible) every place the propane line splits to connect to an appliance.
8.2- Solenoid valve
A solenoid shut off valve can be added to the propane system, near the tank, to easily shut the propane OFF when not in use. The solenoid valve is OFF at all times (“normally closed”), but turns ON (open) when it’s energized with 12V. As soon as the 12V is removed, the valve shuts OFF. When energized (ON), a solenoid draws a current of about 1 amp (depending on brand/model). It’s the main inconvenience of the solenoid valve: you need constant electrical power to get propane. But it’s actually meant to be like that; in case of an accident, the electrical power would probably go OFF. It’s a safety feature.
Most solenoid valves are meant to be installed on the low pressure side of the propane system; that is after the regulator. We like the Century Fuel’s AFC-151R solenoid shut off valve because it can take up to 312 PSI, so it can be installed on the high pressure side (before the regulator) as well, and its 1/4″ MPT port fits directly into the inlet of our propane regulator.
READ THIS:
- Solenoids need constant power to remain ON (open), and, therefore, they get really hot to the touch. They rely on propane flow to cool down, so leaving it ON without using propane will make them even hotter. We get a lot of emails about that… So yeah, it is normal for the solenoid to get very hot!
- Wiring: there is no polarity. In other words, you can connect the positive (+) and negative (-) to any wire of the solenoid.
9- Pressure Gauge
It’s not mandatory by any means, but a pressure gauge installed on the low pressure side (after the regulator) of the system can be a useful thing: you can quickly tell if your regulator is delivering the correct pressure. Indeed, we had a regulator that failed one day (Camco brand), and we spent hours and hours troubleshooting our Propex heater thinking it was faulty… we have installed that gauge since then:
Note: Always take a reading when at least one appliance is running (dynamic pressure)! Static pressure (no appliance running) will always read higher than 11 WC…
10.1- Checking for leaks
Propane manufacturers add a distinctive skunk or rotten egg smell to propane so you are able to detect right away if there is a major leak. That being said, after installing your propane system, you MUST validate that there are no leaks. To do so, pressurize your system (turn all the valves/solenoid ON) and apply soapy water to each fitting; in other words, on every connection in your system. If there is a leak, you will see bubbles forming.
10.2- Gas Detector
Because we turn ON our propane only temporarily for short periods of time (using our solenoid), we personally don’t have a gas detector. However, here’s an option if it makes you feel better:
- This is to detect un-burned gas/propane; in other words, to detect leaks in your system.
- Mount it near the floor (because gas/propane is heavier than air, it will collect near the floor).
10.3- Carbon monoxide alarm
We initially had a carbon monoxide alarm without a digital reading, so nothing was telling us that it actually worked… We upgraded for this one for peace of mind:
- This is to detect carbon monoxide (CO), resulting from propane combustion.
- Mount it near the ceiling or floor (because carbon monoxide is almost the same density as air, it will disperse evenly throughout the air in a room).
10.4- Smoke Detector
The first Alert P1010 smoke detector is tiny and blends perfectly with the decor in our van:
- Mount it near the ceiling.
11- Tank Level Monitoring
11.1- Wireless sensor for smartphone
Our propane tank is located inside the locker, so it’s not exactly convenient to check the propane level. Fortunately, we stumbled upon the Mopeka TankCheck Sensor (Buy on Amazon): this neat device allows us to monitor the level of propane from our smartphone. Nice!
11.2- Tank monitoring for Simarine Pico
We personally use the Simarine Pico to monitor the battery bank (%, solar input, etc.), tank level (fresh, grey, Nature’s Head) & temperatures (in, out, fridge, battery, etc.). It is possible to add the propane tank level with the appropriate sensors.
Sensor for vertical tank
Vertical tanks don't have a provision to add a sensor, but this sensor attaches magnetically to the bottom of a steel tank and makes it possible to read the level of the tank. Note that you must purchase the sensor AND the pre-processor:
Sensor for underbody tank
The ASME Manchester tanks that we recommend have a provision for a level sensor. The sensor output is resistance (not voltage), which can be read by a Simarine module:
12.1- Vented Propane Locker Build
We mentioned earlier that propane might escape from the propane tank from the safety relief valve. This propane has to go somewhere: outside the van sounds about right. To achieve that, we built a sealed box that is vented through the floor with the lid on top (propane is heavier than air). We did not come up with this, this is what marine regulation calls for (some info here).
A quick word about the locker access door:
- Propane is heavier than air and will “pool” (sink) at the bottom of the locker.
- It is REALLY HARD to make an access door that’s 100% sealed.
Because of A+B, the propane locker should be top loading. It’s an extra safety measure to minimize the risk. Indeed, if the access door leaks, propane will leak through the door instead of being evacuated through the vent! We see more and more side-loading propane lockers on YouTube and social networks, and that makes us a bit nervous. Even if it is more convenient, a side-loading propane locker is not ABYC compliant. Vans don’t actually need to comply with ABYC, but we see them as having THE highest safety standards; therefore, we like to stick to them.
First of all, here are the dimensions for a few common propane tanks:
Propane Tank Dimensions
| DESCRIPTION | SIZE | DIAMETER | HEIGHT |
| WORTHINGTON TANK | |||
| Steel, Vertical | 20 lbs | 12.25in | 17.75in |
| Aluminum, Vertical | 20 lbs | 12.25in | 20.6in |
| MANCHESTER TANK | |||
| Steel, Vertical | 20 lbs | 12.16in | 17.56in |
| Aluminum, Vertical | 20 lbs | 12.28in | 20.7in |
And here are the interior dimensions of our propane locker:
We won’t go into the box fabrication details, but let’s just say that the cuts should be perfectly straight to have a good seal! All the edges of the box are glued together; this should seal the deal, but just to make sure, we also applied silicone on all edges inside the box:
We first checked that the propane locker would fit. To clear the aluminum nose stair, we raised the locker with 1/8″ thick MLV leftover we had handy:
We now have to make a hole in the floor. We want that hole to be sealed; if we ever have a water spill, we don’t want water to ingress in between the layers of our floor.
We drilled it using a 1″-5/8 diameter hole saw (Buy on Amazon):
As usual, we must now sand the bare metal edges and apply primer + paint + clearcoat; this is to prevent rust (we went to an auto parts shop, and they prepared paint that matches the color of our van). No picture sorry, so here is a dancing banana instead:
We then inserted a 1″ (inside diameter) PVC pipe in the hole:
And we applied Silicone II (Buy on Amazon) around the pipe inside and outside the van to ensure that no water can ingress in between the floor layers (do not use Silicone I on metal because it’s acidic and might promote rust, while Silicone II, on the other hand, is neutral and safe for metal)!
Marine regulations call for a minimum of ¾” (inside diameter) pipe to ensure proper venting, so we will use that. The ¾” PVC pipe fits very tightly into the locker; we had to use a hammer to put it in place, so it’s not moving from there.
Inside the locker, the ¾” PVC pipe protrude from above the surface (about ¼”) and Silicone was applied to ensure a proper seal:
Here is the oddly satisfying part: the ¾” PVC Pipe (fixed to the locker) fit nicely inside the 1″ PVC pipe (fixed to the floor), so the propane locker can be removed/re-installed as needed!
We added a ¾” PVC elbow to prevent crap from entering the locker. It is simply press-fitted into the ¾” PVC pipe:
We’re not done with that box yet. We now have to add the bulkhead union fitting. As extra safety, the fitting should be installed near the TOP of the locker! Propane is heavier than air and will “sink” to the bottom…
Oops… we installed the fitting towards the center, and it’s in the way when we remove the tank! We relocated the bulkhead fitting towards the outside shortly after (not shown in the picture).
A rubber washer was installed outside & inside to ensure a good seal:
A self-adhesive neoprene seal (Buy on Amazon) was added on the cover to ensure sealing:
And finally, we added latches (Buy on Amazon) so the cover can be easily taken off:
Be aware that screwing parallel through the plywood’s layers is not ideal (the layers could separate under tension); but with the adjustable latches, we can fine-tune the tension to the minimum required. We also pre-drilled the screw holes to minimize the tension in the hole.
This is the assembly that’s inside the propane locker:
12.2- Solenoid Valve Installation
There is some propane and electrical work to do. It’s quite simple, let’s do it!
Propane.
The solenoid is installed directly into the regulator outlet; we installed a 90° fitting so our assembly fits into the propane locker. (Don’t forget to use yellow tape on the threads!)
Electrical.
We went for a push-button that illuminates when ON; this way, we can’t forget to turn the propane OFF when we’re not using it:
We located the push-button switch at a visible place and where it’s easy to turn it ON:
We wish we could find a nice bulkhead fitting to go through the 1/2″ plywood, but we couldn’t, so we just routed the wire and added silicone to seal it…
We used quick-disconnects (Buy on Amazon) for when we need to refill the tank:
When the propane is OPEN, it draws 1.2A (solenoid and switch’s LED combined). For cooking or showering, the electrical power consumption is pretty negligible (around 1-2 Ah per day we’re guessing). When using the Propex heater, it’s a different story: if we would run the Propex all day, it would draw 29Ah daily (1.2A x 24h). That’s not negligible anymore, especially in winter when power is more scarce. In our case, we don’t use the Propex much as it is our backup plan (we prefer to use the gasoline Webasto).
13- On Second Thought...
- Overall: The design we came up with works as intended, awesome!
- Tank size: Our 20lb tank lasts 2 months on average (without using the Propex), that’s plenty!
- Regulator: We went through 2 Camco regulators, and after some research, we discovered others are having the same issue. This thing doesn’t last more than a year… So we switched to the Marshall regulator (amzn.to/2U2btBK), and it’s all good now 🙂
- That’s it for now.
Hi,
I am also in the process of building a gas locker for my van now. One comment you make about the bulkhead location puzzles me.
Quote: We now have to add the bulkhead union fitting. As extra safety, the fitting should be installed near the TOP of the locker! Propane is heavier than air and will “sink” to the bottom…
Sorry but I am not sure the location of the bulkhead (high or low) would make any difference if the bottom of the locker is vented? In my thinking, as much as, it is installed above the lowest vented point, it should be safe, no? Am I missing something?
One of the plan I consider is, to install the bulkhead through the floor so I can get the copper line under the van in order to feed the appliances from under. I try to reduce the number of physical connection inside the van.
Cheers
Hiya. Quick question for ya. I see that y’all used quick disconnects for the propane solenoid inside of the propane box. Since you have to physically turn the propane off and remove the pigtail from the propane tank to remove the tank for refill does disconnecting the solenoid serve a purpose or is it a safety redundancy? I’m building my locker box now and will add the quick disconnects, I’m just wondering if it’s necessary to disconnect each time I remove and fill the propane tank. As always, thanks for all of y’all’s help and I hope that the new van build is going well. It looks great so far!
Hi!
The disconnects are not mandatory, we can remove the tank without disconnecting. But sometimes it’s easier to disconnect it and take the whole thing away completely…
Hope that makes sense,
antoine
Copy! That makes sense. Thanks again.
Hey! I just assembled my propane system in my skoolie (hot water heater and stove/oven). When we opened the propane tank for the first time the gauge read 13 WC. I tried adjusting the screw, but it is a cheap plastic screw that only wants to disintegrate when met with a screw driver. I understand that the static pressure will be slightly elevated, but is 13 WC too elevated? After plateauing at 13 WC for a few seconds I heard a mechanical popping sound coming from the BBQ tank and the smell of propane. It seems like the popping could have been a pressure release mechanism from within the tank, but am unsure. The pressure remained at 13. This all occurred before being able to fully open the tank. Do I have a faulty regulator? Faulty tank? I have ordered the one you recommend just in case. Any thoughts?
Built a locker to accommodate an 11lb squatty tank, and your design has worked great… until our recent winter camping in the Mt Baker ski area. With 22 degree lows, the regulator in the locker froze up after two days of camping. I am assuming the large vent hole invites too much cold air into the locker, and the locker seal works well to keep the ambient temps out? Have ya’ll experienced this? I work at a ski resort and regularly camp in icy temps, so would prefer not to pull the tank out of the locker to run in the general van space (though I do have a propane alarm, so could do seemingly safely).
It’s weird, we never got that. Even when we used our BBQ in VERY cold temps back in the days in Quebec…
Is your tank overfilled? Or not positioned vertically? https://thecampingnerd.com/rv-propane-regulators-freeze
Do you think it makes sense to go with a normal shaped BBQ tank in the 10 or 20lb shape simply so everything fits in the locker nicely? I’m thinking the taller and narrower tanks would create a dimensional problem and I would have a hard time fitting the reg/fittings/hoses/solenoid in the box.
Hi guys!
Love your site. Thanks for all the incredibly useful info. Quick question about 2 Stage Regulator that you recommend (I just recently purchased one). Any idea on where to buy a cover for it (or if you think a cover is even necessary for it)?
Thanks!
Joshua
We personally don’t have a cover. It’s in our Propane Vented Box, not exposed to the elements.
I don’t know if they make a cover or not, sorry! 🙂
That’s okay, thank you for getting back to me anyways!
Hello, this system does not meet propane inspection standards in Ontario, Canada (Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA).
Also insurance companies will not provide coverage for this installation as it is non-compliant.
Were you successful in attaining RV insurance with this propane setup?
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Bonjour, ce système ne répond pas aux normes d’inspection du propane en Ontario, Canada (Autorité des normes techniques et de sécurité (TSSA).
De plus, les compagnies d’assurance ne couvriront pas cette installation car elle n’est pas conforme.
Avez-vous réussi à obtenir une assurance VR avec cette configuration au propane ?
Which part of the code does this violate? If it was checked by a gas tech would it be fine? Did you find a solution for your insurance?
Im posting here since I used your propane system as a reference for mine. I had an interesting thing happen with my system. I normally use my Sprinter for my wife and I, but did a short run with my band.
The guys were loading out and came up to tell me they heard and smelled the propane leaking.
It turned out someone had turned on the master propane switch connected to the solenoid. It was probably left on for a while(I only have it on when directly using the Propane.) I have 3 connections to devices all with on/off valves. All the valves were off. I have most of the connections, including the 3 way splitter inside my propane locker to minimize fault possibilities within the living quarters.
The propane was leaking from the 1/4″ connection going into the solenoid. I could hear it. As I was checking it out, the hose pulled out of the connection 1/4″ connection. This is obviously a high pressure connection, and its possible that I got a faulty part, but I was surprised at the failure.
This got me to thinking about the amount of pressure possible at the solenoid..I’m curious if you guys have run into anything similar?
I’ll be rebuilding with a similar part, but the failure definitely made me a bit wary
Looks like hose you guys recommend (https://www.amazon.com/SHINESTAR-12inch-Pigtail-Propane-Connector/dp/B07BDN34SM/) is unavailable and may not be restocked.
I found these (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07F1QRTCK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) which appear to be the same.
Thank you!
Concerning the propane extension hose, is there a cut-off valve for the base of the hose for outdoor grilling? Otherwise to only cut-off would be where the burner is. I’m not sure I want constant gas pressure on an occasionally used 12 ft rubber hose. (Not using solenoid because locker will have a 1 gal plastic gas can in same locker). Thank you once again.
Hi guys,
Thanks for sharing your reshearch with us.
For safety issue
You migth want to give a look to Safe Boat Propane Installations stating that all appliances connections must be made inside propane locker (each appliance need to be feed directly by it own line). http://www.pcmarinesurveys.com/Safe%20Boat%20propane%20Installation.htm
In regard to ABYC requirements
One trick common with paddlers is to make a wanigan box from pretty thin wood, but wrap it in fiberglass cloth and apply marine epoxy to it. It makes the wood very strong and helps with sealing and waterproofing. That might help with this, addressing risks of leaks and strength.
– à l’article 5.6.4 de la norme CSA B149.5 intitulée – Code d’installation des réservoirs et des systèmes d’alimentation en propane sur les véhicules routiers (https://www.csagroup.org/store/product/CAN-CSA-B149.5-00/) :
5.6.4
« Une bouteille installée dans un véhicule doit être :
a) dans une niche de construction métallique ou à revêtement métallique, étanche à la vapeur à l’intérieur du véhicule, accessible uniquement de l’extérieur et ventilée vers l’extérieur ;
b) dans une armoire métallique étanche à la vapeur à l’intérieur du véhicule. L’armoire doit être ventilée vers le bas à partir du fond de l’armoire au moyen d’un tube d’au moins 25 mm (1 po) de diamètre qui se termine en un point à l’extérieur du véhicule et qui est dirigé à l’écart de toute source d’inflammation sur le véhicule ; ou
c) sur un support de bouteille qui s’étend sous le niveau du plancher, mais pas sous le bas du châssis du véhicule. Le couvercle de la partie de la bouteille qui s’étend au-dessus du plancher doit être recouvert de métal et être étanche à la vapeur à l’intérieur du véhicule. »;
– au chapitre 6 concernant les exigences relatives à l’installation des appareils au propane dans un véhicule récréatif de la norme CSA Z240 VC Série 14 intitulé – Véhicules récréatifs. Il est possible de visualiser cette norme en vous inscrivant via le lien suivant : https://community.csagroup.org/login.jspa?logout
Effectivement, l’article 31.1 du Règlement sur le transport des matières dangereuses (RTMD-Qc) exige que votre bouteille soit ventilée à l’extérieur. De surcroît, en conformité avec l’article 4.1.3 de la norme CSA B340, je vous recommande de munir votre véhicule d’un extincteur dont le pouvoir d’extinction est d’au moins 10 BC. Il est aussi possible de visualiser cette norme via un compte du site Web du Groupe CSA.
En outre, en plus des références précitées, je vous recommande de vous familiariser avec le contenu de ces nomes afin de vous assurer d’une installation sécuritaire de la tuyauterie, de votre poêle et de la bouteille de propane.
Espérant que ces informations vous seront utiles, je vous prie de recevoir, Monsieur Bergeron, l’expression de mes sentiments les meilleurs.
Raynald Boies, ing.
Références :
– RTMD-Qc : https://www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/fr/document/rc/C-24.2,%20r.%2043
– Extincteur portatif : https://www.cchst.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/fire_extinguishers.html
Légalité avec propane à bord d’un véhicule récréatif.
Bonjour, premièrement je vous félicite et vous remercie pour toutes les infos utile pour la conversion d’un Vr. J’ai suivi beaucoup de vos recommandations et ma conversion avance très bien. (sauf pour le propane)
Au début j’envisageais l’installation d’une bouteille de propane de 20 lbs comme vous dans un caisson ventilé, chauffage propex 2000 et tout….. jusqu’au jour ou je magasinais un poêle au propane chez garage du campeur à Québec . Le vendeur avec qui je m’entretenais m’a expliqué que c’étais illégal d’avoir une bouteille de propane à l’intérieure du véhicule et de m’informer au norme canadienne, ce que j’ai fait. J’ai appeler à au norme canadienne (CSA) qui m’ont référé à transport canada qui mon référé au MTQ. J’ai finalement reçu une réponse du MTQ qui explique clairement les normes pour installer une bouteille de propane à l’intérieure, voici leur réponse :
En espérant aider et éclairer plusieurs personnes qui veulent voyager en toute légalité.
merci
Eric
Pouvez-vous s’il vous plaît partager la réponse que vous avez reçue du MTQ ?
Howdy. Regarding the solenoid placement: being ultra cautious, having an electrical connection inside an air-tight box with propane – even allowing for the floor vent – seems like a recipe for a 1 in a million gas leak-electric spark, kaboom scenario. Your thoughts. Thanks.
Larry
Hi,
Having a solenoid in the locker (as close as possible to the tank) is per ABYC recommendations: https://s30384.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/propane3-3.jpg.webp
cheers, antoine
Critical question: Can I have gas regulator/solenoid outside the propane box?
Ordering 11 lbs tall (9 in dia vs 12” dia). My beautiful 12”/11 lb. is killing me in ergonomics!!!
The regulator and solenoid can be a source of leak, so I’d highly recommend fitting them inside the locker!
This page doesn’t seem to work! The heading says there are 142 comments, but I can only see 2. Repeated clicks on the “older comments” text just brings me to the same page. It’s repeatable on several browsers.
My question is this: your diagrams show flare fittings connecting directly to each other. Since there is no pipe to be flared, this implies that the fittings screw directly into each other—is this correct? Should I use tape on these connections?
Thanks for the heads up, I think I found the bug and older comments should be loading now.
There are two types of threaded connections:
1- Flared (with 45° chamfer) do NOT require tape.
2- Non-Flare, NPT (no chamfer) DO require yellow tape for gas or dope.
Cheers, antoine
Did you use copper flare gaskets on the fittings that connect male and female flare fittings together, like the connection to the cross from the MPT adaptor or the bulkhead/rubber hose connection?
Hi.
Thanks for the info and instructions. I cannot tell from the pictures, did you use a locking latch on all 4 sides of the box lid? Or just on 3 sides. It seems access to the latch by the van wall would be difficult.
Would a piano hinge work for that back side?
3 sides indeed!
A hinge may work, but we wouldn’t have enough clearance to open the lid completely.
Regards,
antoine
So to be clear, only 3 sides are secured? The back of the lid is “loose”, ie no hinge or clamp of any kind back there? I’ve been scratching my head on the rear side trying to come up with a solution. But if you’re having success with nothing back there, then that’s good to know. Thank you!
Correct, one of the side doesn’t have hinge or clamp. It felt OK to me to contain a slow leak as the propane is heavier than air and would evacuate by the vent at the bottom.
Hey guys!
Wondering if you have switched to a different regulator since the Marshall has been recalled? If so, have you found one that works well in a van?
Thanks,
Kevin
I had a look at the NHTSA report and it looks like the defect is associated to a specific lot (#K0722 & #K1822).
Ours has been leak-free for years, so we won’t replace it as it doesn’t seem to be affected by the defect.
A good reminder of the importance of doing a leak-check after a new installation, and at repeated intervals afterward. Also a good reminder of why marine regulations mandate the use of vented propane locker!