Propane regulator mounting

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mrehmus - 27 Dec 2006 05:10 GMT

The first stage regulator diaphram on my motorhome failed and was
leaking propane gas out the vent hole. Time to replace it!

So I had Camping World replace it but I think they may have installed
the wrong regulator. When I went to pay for the work, the work order
listed the regulator as a 2-stage regulator VERT. I asked what the VERT
meant and the mechanic said not to worry, that the regulator was
installed correctly. Since he didn't install a regulator cover
(required by law in most states), I have some reason to suspect his
competence.

However, when I look up the regulator on the Marshall Brass Web site
(the manufacturer) they show pictures of two regulator styles that are
identical except for the vent discharge on the second stage regulator.
They don't give enough information to allow me to decide which
regulator model should have been installed.

The motorhome has a horizontal tank and the regulator is also
horizontal (no room for a vertical regulator) but on this new regulator
the vent from the second stage regulator section is facing forward. I'm
guessing that it should be pointed down.

Anyone know about this? The RVIAA will happily sell me a $50 dollar
book on the subject but given the lack of information that I find with
a Google search, I'd bet it doesn't address this particular issue.

I'll be trying to get information from Marshall Brass but they don't
have an abundance of contact information and no support group
(indicated on their Web site) it may be difficult to get to someone
there who knows about this issue.

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Jon Porter - 27 Dec 2006 18:02 GMT

> > The motorhome has a horizontal tank and the regulator is also
> horizontal (no room for a vertical regulator) but on this new regulator
[quoted text clipped - 9 lines]
> (indicated on their Web site) it may be difficult to get to someone
> there who knows about this issue.

The vent should point down.
http://www.vintagetrailersupply.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=VTS-383

Signature

Jon
JPinOH

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Tom J - 28 Dec 2006 00:46 GMT

> The first stage regulator diaphram on my motorhome failed and was
> leaking propane gas out the vent hole. Time to replace it!
[quoted text clipped - 6 lines]
> was
> installed correctly.

Installed correctly and the correct regulator are 2 seperate items.
Take it right back to CW and tell them to install the correct
horozontal regulator or refund your money.

Tom J

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Scout - 30 Dec 2006 10:53 GMT

What color was the regulator that was replaced?
What color is the new regulator?
Were existing 2nd stage regulators removed when a 2-stage was installed?

I would have a certified gas technician have a look. If you are unsure about
the camper service tech, go to an Agway, or Suburban Gas, or some other
supplier of propane in your neighborhood. They may not know what RV
conveniences are available, but they will know if the system is safe. I
don't work on RV's, but I've done a lot of propane work over the years.
Check with your local experts; stick with your instincts and get it checked
out.

If your lines are all sized for 2 stages of pressure regulation, (1st [red]
and 2nd stage [green] regulator), they may or may not be large enough
(diameter) for a single (gray) regulator system.

Best of luck to you.
Scout

> The first stage regulator diaphram on my motorhome failed and was
> leaking propane gas out the vent hole. Time to replace it!
[quoted text clipped - 26 lines]
> (indicated on their Web site) it may be difficult to get to someone
> there who knows about this issue.

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mrehmus - 01 Jan 2007 02:00 GMT

I talked with the Engineering Manager for Marshall Gas Regulators about
the issue.

The Vent must point down within 45 degrees of vertical to allow
moisture that condenses from outside air contacting the cold parts of
the regulator. If moisture collected inside and froze, it could cause a
major problem.

He was understandably concerned that Camping World misused one of their
products. He mentioned that they could lose their license as could the
tech that misinstalled the regulator.

Camping World replaced the regulator with the proper unit and
everything is OK now.

BTW, the large single stage regulators are designed for use outside on
things like grills, lights and heaters. They are not safe to use in RV
applications where the gas pressure must be limited to around 11" of
water at the appliance.

Thanks for the input everyone.

> What color was the regulator that was replaced?
> What color is the new regulator?
[quoted text clipped - 14 lines]
> Best of luck to you.
> Scout

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