Dual propane tank switchover valve question

I had the switchover valves leaking back with 1 cylinder disconnected on all RV I had.
For me 5 gallons of propane is 3-4 seasons supply, so usually I disconnect one hose and plug it at the valve. This way I can travel with 1 cylinder only and use the space for other gear.

I have the Auto switch, but don't really use it.
Shows Green when it has gas, Red when it's near empty.

Two tanks, I turn one on (or the current active one) the valve and flipped the switch to the 'On' and the other 2nd one 'Off'... Why?

I want to know when one is empty and needs to be filled next time I go into town. And Yes, it does require getting up sometimes at 0300 hrs to go out and turn on the 2nd tank and flip the switch over.

I then know the 1st tank is empty and the clock is slowly clicking on the second tank.
I keep it connected, just cause, but have at times disconnected the 'Pigtail' and obviously when filling without a problem

Things to keep in mind:

- If tank is drained, then Refrig if on propane might show a code, Empty or something like that, sometimes it's hard to get it to recognize the new propane feed. I just light up the stove to get the propane flowing, let it run for a few seconds and restart the Refrig. It then catches.

- I use those little red bungee ball cords to ID the tank that needs filling instead of trying lift/guess etc which one it is.. I just loop it through the handle. Just something I do, no real need to do it, but I like to 'KISS".. and it works.

- I always, now, check that refilled tank valve will work before leaving the propane place. Had one place, Quartzsite, AZ, lock up the valve, got back to campsites tried it, couldn't turn it on. Took it back, dealer pretty much said 'Tough, not my problem'..
Stopped going them and spend some $30 for a new valve, so I check it right there at the dealer before driving off.

There's been this discussion before on here and others wonder in amazement why it's so hard to just check the tanks and let the Auto-switch do its job, auto transfer to the other full tank. That means getting out a ladder the checking it every so often... Probably 'Six of one, half dozen of another'. But then I KNOW when the 2nd tank started and can figure how much time I have left for total emptiness. (I also carry another 30lb tank as a backup)

Bottom line, I don't really use the Auto switch as intended to keep better track.

Hope that helps.

My last 3 camper (TT and 5er) all had the automatic switch over. I always ran only one tank at a time by keeping the tank valve closed on one and open on the other. This way I knew when one was empty and could get it filled immediately. I never ran short on propane.

And yes, you should be able to disconnect one tank from the line with the other tank turn open and the open line should not leak.

It's an easy test. Just remove one line from one tank and turn the knob on the other tank. See if anything spews out. If not, you are good to go.

If the pigtails connect to what looks like a simple "T", they do make a T with integrated check valves, so you can disconnect one. Many pigtails now contain check valves as well.