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Itasca55's avatar
Itasca55
Explorer
Jul 20, 2014

LP tank testing itasca 1992

I have a 1992 sunrise 27ft and last fall I closed the LP tank valve now this summer I noticed it was empty when I was getting it out . :S So that means either valve or fuller are leaking . Whats the steps to take to get this tested . I was thinking something was up last summer as I could always smell a bit of LP out side where tanks located . I was thinking it was from when they filled it and sprayed a bit when they unhooked filler pipe . but Now I know there's a issue . any info be great .

Itasca55
  • Thanks for all the info in search of local lp export ;)

    Itasca 55
  • Flanz wrote:
    Dog Trainer wrote:
    topflite51 wrote:
    Have to agree about taking it to a full service propane dealer.

    "Start by taking a soapy dish detergent and water solution in a spray bottle. Spray all the fittings that you can find starting at the tank. Watch for the large bubble that forms at a slow leak or a number of bubbles at a fast leak. This may give you the source of your leak.

    How does this work when the tank is empty? :h

    How would anyone find the leak while the tank is empty. Highly skilled propane dealer or not


    This won't work with an empty tank. It will need to be pressurized then the soapy water can be used. Altho I'm not a "propane expert" I would assume that putting the tank under pressure with dry compressed air would be the best way to test an already empty tank....

    -paul


    NO NO NO! NEVER put air in a propane tank or bottle or cylinder!
    the propane supplier can put a very small amount of liquid propane in there, and the pressure will immediately go to full propane pressure. Even half a cup of liquid propane will give full pressure, that's why the pressure gauge gimmicks to indicate tank levels are pretty much useless; the pressure won't drop until the tank is completely empty!
    Get the tank tested at a competent facility, then let them drain it and fix it.
  • I have to agree with all suggesting a full service dealer. There is one near us and while the owner is a grumpy old f@rt, he becomes very concerned if you mention leak. Very diligent and good prices. Drove by last week and propane was $2.09 if you got 20lbs or more. Don't know how much for a single cylinder as I always get more than the 20lb min.
  • Dog Trainer wrote:
    topflite51 wrote:
    Have to agree about taking it to a full service propane dealer.

    "Start by taking a soapy dish detergent and water solution in a spray bottle. Spray all the fittings that you can find starting at the tank. Watch for the large bubble that forms at a slow leak or a number of bubbles at a fast leak. This may give you the source of your leak.

    How does this work when the tank is empty? :h

    How would anyone find the leak while the tank is empty. Highly skilled propane dealer or not


    This won't work with an empty tank. It will need to be pressurized then the soapy water can be used. Altho I'm not a "propane expert" I would assume that putting the tank under pressure with dry compressed air would be the best way to test an already empty tank....

    -paul
  • topflite51 wrote:
    Have to agree about taking it to a full service propane dealer.

    "Start by taking a soapy dish detergent and water solution in a spray bottle. Spray all the fittings that you can find starting at the tank. Watch for the large bubble that forms at a slow leak or a number of bubbles at a fast leak. This may give you the source of your leak.

    How does this work when the tank is empty? :h

    How would anyone find the leak while the tank is empty. Highly skilled propane dealer or not
  • Have to agree about taking it to a full service propane dealer.

    "Start by taking a soapy dish detergent and water solution in a spray bottle. Spray all the fittings that you can find starting at the tank. Watch for the large bubble that forms at a slow leak or a number of bubbles at a fast leak. This may give you the source of your leak.

    How does this work when the tank is empty? :h
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Old-Biscuit wrote:
    Take it to a bulk propane dealer........not some pump jock filling place.


    Took the words right off my keyboard you did with that one OB.

    By the way to the O/P. I 2nd his advice.
  • Start by taking a soapy dish detergent and water solution in a spray bottle. Spray all the fittings that you can find starting at the tank. Watch for the large bubble that forms at a slow leak or a number of bubbles at a fast leak. This may give you the source of your leak.
  • What he said! The LP fill stations are often the cause of some of these issues. Also look at the over-pressure relief valve thats located near the bottom of the tank. I have a storage neighbors RV break a spring a few years ago and vented the entire tank out.
  • Take it to a bulk propane dealer........not some pump jock filling place.

    Explain to them your 'leak' issue and have them test tank fittings etc.