TheSamba.com :: View topic - Propane tank filling fitting-valve?

Wed Jul 23, 2025 6:17 pm

I'm restoring a Westfailia propane tank. I'm going to get it pressure tested - recertified. I removed all the fittings and repainted the tank.

My questions are about the filling fitting and the articulating float thing. What's the function of the float? What orientation does it need to be in when installed? I'm asking because I don't see anything that it "controls" when it is moved through it's arc.

Please enlighten me.

Thanks

Wed Jul 23, 2025 6:49 pm

This is not answering your question just wanted to share this website should you need.

https://www.vanavation.com/westy-propane-items.html

Wed Jul 23, 2025 8:09 pm

When the tank gets filled, liquid propane is pumped into it.
The liquid is only supposed to mostly fill the tank, leaving some space for expansion if the tank gets warmer and the liquid expands.
The float closes the filler port when the liquid level is at max.
It is a safety device to help prevent over filling of the tank.

It is only the last couple years of factory Westy tank that have that safety device.
Replacement tanks also have it.

Mark

Wed Jul 23, 2025 9:09 pm

Xeven. Thanks for the lead for the proper parts. Much appreciated. I will replace the filling fitting, at a minimum.

Is there a good way to test my existing regulator? Or do I just replace it?

Thu Jul 24, 2025 7:17 am

RicMcK wrote: I will replace the filling fitting, at a minimum.

i was getting short fills with my new Manchester tank... the OPD, Overfill Prevention Device, would shut off before there was spray at the 80% valve and could only get about 2.2 gallons in an empty tank. this is NOT kosher, not suggesting anyone do it, but i replaced my OPD ACME valve with one without the OPD. now when i fill up, i get full fills until the spray is seen at the 80% valve.

OPDs were required because too many fill station operators did NOT heed or maybe even know about the function of the 80% valve and overfilled tanks. this can lead to tank rupture as well as liquid being forced into the regulator instead of vapor causing malfunction and flare ups. so. people were stupid, laws made to protect them.

OPDs on 20lb cylinders were likewise required because refillers did not observe the tare weight on the cylinder and would ram 20lbs into a partially full cylinder. here it makes a bit more sense as operators were required to have scales and do some maths to figure out how much propane to run in.

Thu Jul 24, 2025 8:14 am

RicMcK wrote:
Is there a good way to test my existing regulator? Or do I just replace it?

The only way I know to test a regulator is to install it and measure WC to see if it's working. Maybe a propane shop has a bench tester of some sort?

Regardless, regulators are wear items and should be replaced every 10 years or so. I believe the EU requires replacement every 10 years on RVs but that's a memory from some years back.

Thu Jul 24, 2025 8:21 am

jimf909 wrote:
The only way I know to test a regulator is to install it and measure WC to see if it's working. Maybe a propane shop has a bench tester of some sort?

like this. or get a new regulator and stay ahead of the game.

Thu Jul 24, 2025 8:29 am

Thanks. New regulator and filling fitting are on my list, as I don't know the history of the parts. After the tank is pressure tested and certification. :)

Thu Jul 24, 2025 8:35 am

crazyvwvanman wrote: It is only the last couple years of factory Westy tank that have that safety device.

My '90 has the thumbscrew.
The propane refill fellers have always looked for, and used the thumbscrew ( &port) as the full indicator.

Do you think my tank also has the floater (OPD) inside?

Thu Jul 24, 2025 8:41 am

Sodo wrote: crazyvwvanman wrote: It is only the last couple years of factory Westy tank that have that safety device.

My '90 has the thumbscrew.
The propane refill fellers have always looked for, and used the thumbscrew ( &port) as the full indicator.

Do you think my tank also has the floater (OPD) inside?

the 80% valve is on all RV tanks, regardless of the presence of the OPD. however, i'll bet a donut that if you can fill until the valve squirts, you don't have an OPD.

Thu Jul 24, 2025 8:45 am

I'd go for the donut either way....

Rick I have this specialized tool. (part#jimf909)

Somewhere I read that you cannot install a regulator upside-down. I suppose the water-drain would not function properly?

Back when I replaced my regulator, folks were saying the Marshall MEGR-295 was the only replacement available.
If your regulator is set at 11" WC, you don't really need access to the adjustment screw.