I'm trying to disconnect the regulator from my propane tank so I can install an extend-a-stay. The coupling is STUCK. I know it's a left hand thread so it's not that I'm turning it the wrong way. I'm worried if I turn it too hard, by using a pipe over the wrench for more leverage, I might break something else. Any tips?Thanks!

Use a wrench on the valve side to counteract the force applied to the POL nut before applying more force with a handle extension.

One of the reasons I do not like working on other folks stuff is I tend to tighten nuts and fittings TIGHT.. Of course there are still times... I was helping a man put some modifications on his motor cycle, We were putting in a quarter inch bolt that holds the horn.. I simply held the nut while he tightend the bolt I DID NOT TURN ANYTHING.. HE overtightened and broke it.Thankfully.. I eat quarter inch bolts by the dozen (or used to (So I had spares on hand.. Exactly the kind he needed.

Most of the new tanks (OPD Valve equipped) have right hand threads. I would try some WD-40 and let it sit for an hour then try to loosen the coupling.

the bear II wrote:Most of the new tanks (OPD Valve equipped) have right hand threads. I would try some WD-40 and let it sit for an hour then try to loosen the coupling.yep, I just changed out the tank on my grill and was sort of surprised to discover that.bumpy

What the bear said. Mine are right hand thread. Try going the other way.

Propane Tank Coupling is stuck! | Good Sam Community

15 Replies

jsmart
Explorer
Nov 29, 2015
dougrainer wrote:
The POL fitting between the LP regulator and the Tank valve IS LEFT HANDED THREAD. Never has changed. Now DOT Portable 20/30/40 pound tanks, THAT OPD fitting IS Right Hand thread. The Output fitting on the LP regulator is also RH thread. The POL going INTO the LP regulator is RH thread also. The OP according to previous posts has a Class A motorhome which has a ASME tank which will have LH threads. Doug

Always like Doug's right on answers, it's nice to have some expertise to learn from.
jwmII
Explorer
Nov 24, 2015
zach477 wrote:
Well I lubed it up, tapped on the wrench a bit, drank a protein shake, and gave it a pull. It was still stuck.

So the I pulled harder. It came loose, the wrench slipped off, and I have a bloody knuckle but it looks cool. :p

Now I can stay warm in Tennesse....it was a close call. :)

That's why some refer to those wrenches as knuckle busters.
zach477
Explorer
Nov 24, 2015
Well I lubed it up, tapped on the wrench a bit, drank a protein shake, and gave it a pull. It was still stuck.

So the I pulled harder. It came loose, the wrench slipped off, and I have a bloody knuckle but it looks cool. :p

Now I can stay warm in Tennesse....it was a close call. :)
WILDEBILL308
Explorer II
Nov 24, 2015
zach477 wrote:
And what if that doesn't work?

Get a bigger hammer and if beating on it doesn't work the problem is electrical.
Bill
zach477
Explorer
Nov 24, 2015
And what if that doesn't work?
WILDEBILL308
Explorer II
Nov 24, 2015
zach477 wrote:
Yeah there are arrows on the coupling showing that turning to the LEFT will tighten it.

I'll try some lube and a second wrench. Maybe swear a little....

No a lot it always greases things so they work.:B ;)
Bill
zach477
Explorer
Nov 24, 2015
Yeah there are arrows on the coupling showing that turning to the LEFT will tighten it.

I'll try some lube and a second wrench. Maybe swear a little....
dougrainer
Nomad
Nov 23, 2015
The POL fitting between the LP regulator and the Tank valve IS LEFT HANDED THREAD. Never has changed. Now DOT Portable 20/30/40 pound tanks, THAT OPD fitting IS Right Hand thread. The Output fitting on the LP regulator is also RH thread. The POL going INTO the LP regulator is RH thread also. The OP according to previous posts has a Class A motorhome which has a ASME tank which will have LH threads. Doug
Bumpyroad
Explorer
Nov 23, 2015
I would suggest not using a breaker bar to try to turn it left.
bumpy
PRodacy
Explorer
Nov 23, 2015
Mine are right hand threads as well.