Truckfridge + Propex + GoWesty Larger Propane Tank?

[jpstewart19]

I am getting ready to install my new TF49 with a Propex underneath like many of the folks here have done. However, my propane tank is I terrible shape (tag 1/2 rusted off, old regulator, etc).

I am looking at getting a new tank and considering the larger tank. Has anyone done this with the Propex location here? I am concerned that the larger tank will block the routing of Propex vent tubes.

Any feedback would be appreciated.
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1985 Vanagon Westfalia Subie
1972 Super Beetle Convertible
1990 Vanagon GL "Winston" (Sold)
1980 Vanagon Westfalia “Rusty” (Sold)
1982 Vanagon Westfalia “Rusty II” (Sold)
1977 Smurf Blue Campmobile (Sold)

[shagginwagon83]

Well, I am in a similar boat. I have a chest fridge. Going to be adding a gas heater before winter. Will probably need to replace my tank also.

I am considering getting a gasoline powered heater (Espar I think). I'd rather more frequently put gas into my van than a heater. I think it uses like a gallon a night? I use my van for weekends. Not going off the grid for many days.

I'd rather frequently refill my gas tank than the propane tank. Plus I can carry Jerry cans with gas in it.
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Brandon
"Jo Ann" - '83.5 Westfalia EJ22e w/Peloquin
Instagram @joannthevan

[dobryan]

I added a second propane tank on the passenger side. This way I can run the first tank dry then switch to the second tank and get the first tank refilled next time I pass a filling station. Never have to worry about running out of propane for the propex or stove. YMMV.
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Dave O
'87 Westy w/ 2002 Subaru EJ25 and Peloquin TBD

"To travel hopefully is a better thing than to arrive." Robert Louis Stevenson

MD>Canada>AK>WA>OR>CA>AZ>UT>WY>SD
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The Western Syncro build
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[candyman]

[jpstewart19]

So I also have a second tank which is in good condition. However, I think the primary needs to be replaced. If I am going to replace it, I might as well go with the bigger tank for an extra $100, but want to make sure it won’t block the Propex
_________________
1985 Vanagon Westfalia Subie
1972 Super Beetle Convertible
1990 Vanagon GL "Winston" (Sold)
1980 Vanagon Westfalia “Rusty” (Sold)
1982 Vanagon Westfalia “Rusty II” (Sold)
1977 Smurf Blue Campmobile (Sold)

[jimf909]

Based on your title, I’m assuming that you’re installing the Propex under the TF (as opposed to installing the Propex under the rear bench, under the bus mounted externally, etc)?

You may want to call some of our excellent vendors such as WestyVentures, Peacevans, etc. They have a ton of experience with Propex and TF installs. Karl at Westyvenutes in particular is very helpful and supportive here. If you haven’t bought the Propex or TF yet, I highly recommend buying from Karl. He’s helped me problem-solve. Ping him and my guess is that he knows the answer and will assist with a good path forward.

http://www.westyventures.com/
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- Jim

[westyventures]

The downsides to the larger 'GW' (Manchester) tank are two-fold: Increased tank height, greatly reduced ground clearance. The tank was not meant to fit a Vanagon so 'changes' are required to make it work and some of them I would never perform in my own shop for customer's safety reasons. I don't believe there will be sufficient space for the Propex pipes to clear the larger tank either. If you need more capacity, add a second tank on the right and tie the two together post-regulator. FYI, the Propex will run approximately 40 hours on a full tank.

[jpstewart19]

Thank you so much for the info. This is exactly what I was hoping for. Based on this, it sounds like my best bet is to go with the smaller tank.

you are correct that I am planning to put the propex directly under the TF49, along with a converter.

Unfortunately I already have the TF and Propex in my garage ready to go, but have bookmarked your site for future projects.
_________________
1985 Vanagon Westfalia Subie
1972 Super Beetle Convertible
1990 Vanagon GL "Winston" (Sold)
1980 Vanagon Westfalia “Rusty” (Sold)
1982 Vanagon Westfalia “Rusty II” (Sold)
1977 Smurf Blue Campmobile (Sold)

[danfromsyr]

fwiw I have a larger propane tank mounted onto the passanger side by the sliding door.
it's not difficult to extend the lines to the other side. there are flare to flare couplers available. I ran flexible rubber from the tank to the copper. that's how my ASI Riviera model came from the factory.
https://www.google.com/search?q=flare+to+flare+cou...p;ie=UTF-8

yes it hangs lower.
yes it's nice to have 30# equiv in propane. sometimes.

all depends on your needs, wants and uses.
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[Altoona]

[westyventures]

[danfromsyr]

so your gripe is with installation procedures/practices..
and likely justified.
it's rare I see something someone else installed and go, dang they nailed it right.
I imagine that may the same thing the next guy says on my stuff too.
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[Altoona]

[westyventures]

The mounting points of the TANK.

Safety of my customers is priority. If the mass of fittings were all supported by a proper bracket, it might be another thing. But the reality is most of the fittings are unnecessary and the regulator could be screwed directly into the tank valve.

[Altoona]

[Sodo]

[MsTaboo]

[jberger]

I installed a GW larger tank for a friend yesterday. It is mounted securely enough for my peace of mind. It is actually a bit tight to the floor, compressing the sheet metal slightly. I plan to also install a propex but will be putting it in the pantry cabinet forward of the water tank. There is JUST enough room to route the flue and combustion air behind the tank and in front of the water tank... or so it looks.

J