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Maudi's avatar
Maudi
Explorer
May 05, 2016

Oily substance in propane regulator

Have a 2015 Winnebago View using propane for hot water, heater, and two burner cooktop. Nothing works despite full propane tank and all valves open. Replaced the hoses under recall notice, then everything shut down. Worked intermittently then shut down completely on last trip.
While removing to replace the regulator, an oily substance 'poured' out (at least 1 ounce or more) of the hose and regulator and made a bloody mess. From my online research, I have not found this to be a common problem, and the cause is not clear to me.
My question is how to prevent this from happening in the future? Apparently there is an additive in propane to give it smell, and it can cause plugging the lines. Would an inline gas filter prevent future issues? Has anyone experienced a similar problem, and does anyone use a gas filter system? Can the old regulator be cleaned and reused?
I would love to hear from you.
Thanks!
Seeking Advice

6 Replies

  • Maudi's avatar
    Maudi
    Explorer
    May 06, 2016
    Thanks for input from everyone. I appreciate it.

    With the new regulator and the oily substance removed I trust I'll be ok. All systems are go now. The mechanic shop making the repair was familiar with the oily substance, but not in the quantity that came out of the hoses and the regulator.
    I was considering putting a filter in, but there does not seem to be a need for doing that. From these and other posts it does not seem to be common practice.

    Thank You All
  • tuna_fisher's avatar
    tuna_fisher
    Explorer
    May 06, 2016
    Probably macafren(sp) which is what they put in lpg to make it smell.Is it super smelly? If you take a old tank and remove the valve and turn it upside down a oil substance will come out, it builds up over years. Man dose it smell, get it on your gloves you might as well throw them away.
  • TenOC's avatar
    TenOC
    Nomad
    May 06, 2016
    Often time there is "oil" in propane. Mr Buddy Heater suggest you add a filter. I never have, had to clean the regulator and hose once.
  • avan's avatar
    avan
    Explorer
    May 05, 2016
    I've not experienced anything like what you've described. I've never had any propane problems and that is over 5 RVs, 40 yrs of RVing including 14+ yrs of full timing.

    What did Winnebago service department say about your problem and possible fixes?

    What has you local propane distributor said?

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