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Old 05-10-2012, 08:58 AM   #1
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Carrying a propane tank inside the van while traveling.

I posted this under gadgets but thought I'd get a better response here:


I use one of these lite cylinders, 10gal model, for my Camp Chef stove, latern, heater, and soon shower.

http://www.litecylinder.com/Products/Details.aspx?id=1

I got it from amazon for $80, 1 fill will last me at least a year.

I carry this in the back of my van, held still with bungie cords. I take it out when parked at camp or home, is it dangerous to carry tanks in the van while traveling? I have stock bumpers so no good way to carry it outside the van, maybe a mount on the roof?!?!?

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Old 05-10-2012, 09:33 AM   #2
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Re: Carrying a propane tank inside the van while traveling.

Depends. If you're trapped in a wreck and the tank is compromised somehow it might not be good. Super high heat can force a venting. The specific gravity is more than 1 so propane will pool in low areas but any light breeze should disperse it enough that you would smell the gas. I've always carried those small propane and butane canisters inside without problems but keep my big tanks in the outside box.
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Old 05-10-2012, 09:59 AM   #3
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Re: Carrying a propane tank inside the van while traveling.

Practicality tells me I can carry a tank inside, paranoia tells me it's a dumb idea. I'd be even more paranoid if I were sleeping in the van with a tank of propane (or any bottled gas).

If you do carry it inside, I'd recommend something more substantial than a bungee. Some good bumps and the bungee will stretch and your tank could come loose, and then you have a world of other problems.

I have eyed those Lite cylinders. Interesting.


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Old 05-10-2012, 10:26 AM   #4
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Re: Carrying a propane tank inside the van while traveling.

Quote:
Originally Posted by BroncoHauler
I have eyed those Lite cylinders. Interesting.


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At least they won't hurt so bad when you slam on the brakes and the tank comes flying towards your head
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Old 05-10-2012, 10:39 AM   #5
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Re: Carrying a propane tank inside the van while traveling.

Now y'all got me eyeing the big fat propane bomb right behind and under my seat. It is protected from a T-bone by that flap of sheet metal and nothing else...
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Old 05-10-2012, 11:29 AM   #6
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Re: Carrying a propane tank inside the van while traveling.

I have carried 2-3 of the 1# bottles in my van on occasion but prefer to store them outside. Anything bigger really makes me shudder. If having a 10#er inside is a "requirement" I think I would design a dedicated compartment with outside venting.
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Old 05-10-2012, 01:19 PM   #7
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Re: Carrying a propane tank inside the van while traveling.

Well you guys got me scared now!!! There is a cubby whole under the slider cabinet next to the sofa (EB50) that is big enough to hold this tank, I currently stuff our bed pillows in there. There is a hole that had been drilled thru the floor in this cubby hole for some reason. I think they drilled the hole (about 5/8") in it at the factory and then realized there wasn't to be a stove/propane installed and just left the hole. I have since added insulation but I could open it back up. Do you think this would be enough of a vent? Would be a target for a t-bone though!!!
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Old 05-10-2012, 02:55 PM   #8
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Re: Carrying a propane tank inside the van while traveling.

I just got one of those lite 10 gallon tanks last week. I bought for the same reason of weight and adequate capacity for probably a year for the Vawlkayno* II and outdoor stove. The tanks are DOT certified for transport so i am not worried about vehicle accident impact as long as it is well secured. But, I do worry about valve leakage so will not leave it in the van for storage. While I am in the van, my propane detector and the odor should get my attention. Having driven 20+ YO VW vans with propane systems I was always more worried about piping leaks or the crappy refer valve failing so I would keep the propane system turned off when not in use.

BTW: Regarding the Lite tank I am disappointed with plastic enclosure carry handle/enclosure of the fiberglass Lite tank when it arrived. The product photos never showed the crude gaps in the seams and the cheesy rivets that look like they will not take much abuse. Seems to me they could do a better job for the price

*eubonics spelling for Jage
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Old 05-10-2012, 06:22 PM   #9
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Re: Carrying a propane tank inside the van while traveling.

Everyone knows that the short answer is, No.
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Old 05-10-2012, 08:33 PM   #10
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Carrying a propane tank inside the van while traveling.

It all depends on how much fear you want to deal with. I have carried my trust/rusty 3-1/2 gallon tank both inside and outside my vehicles with no problems since he mid 70s. The tanks are designed to take a beating and not fail. Put in a propane sensor and carry it where you are comfortable carrying it. Just make sure it is securely tied down.


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