Avoid Breaking Camp To Refill Your RV Propane Tank With This Handy Propane Fitting Bypass Kit
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- Опубліковано 10 кві 2019
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Certified Mobile RV Technician, Darren Koepp, walks you through the installation of an RV propane tank fitting bypass adapter kit that allows you to utilize an external BBQ style propane tank instead of your onboard ASME propane tank, thus allowing you to not have to break camp to refill your propane reserves!
If you are in need of RV Repairs in the Olympic Peninsula area of Washington state, submit a service request on our website at myrvworks.com today!
This was one of the most effective and informative videos on how to install it system that I had seen. And as of the time I recorded this which is 8 April at 4 o'clock in the afternoon I was able to connect up an external LP tank to my RV which had an empty tank on board and I'm actually feeling the furnace running and my stove works. So it worked you did it right thank you
Thank you Darren for taking your time to help us fellow RV’ers
Please note that a rv, lp, gas reverse thread nut / fitting has a small cut or score on the nut / fitting which indicates it is reverse thread (where you put the wrench). Also while pliers will work they can over time damage the surface. A crescent or proper open end wrench is preferable. When using a combustible gas leak detector it takes a minute for it to begin sensing. Check the user manual for your unit. Lp Gas is heavier than air so check the bottom of the fittings. Just my humble opinion. Not meant to pick on anything or one, Just sharing info. Extending the plate is a wise thing.
I know I'm a year late but several comments criticize the moving of the regulator; from lack of protection from road debris getting kicked up, to drilling the new hole. There's a simple solution to all of this and that is to make the installation of this adapter a part of your RV setup routine since it is so easy to do, and remove it when moving out of the park.
Excellent content again with the propane - especially the placement of the connectivity to allow the feed to come into the top of the line and allowing the door to be closed. Keeps prying hands and/or kids out of it.
First video that I watched, and I watched 5 before yours, that answered every single question I had… Thank you for the video and thank you for sharing
Best propane tip... install a 15 minute mechanical timer on your hot water propane switch. That will give you hot shower water without continually heating water that you won't need till another day. Believe me! This extends your propane supply 2 or 3 times longer... and after your shower you'll still have enough hot water for dishes.
Extra tip... when you first run your shower catch the cool water and use it to flush your toilet.
Terry, if you don't want to put the timer on, couldn't you just turn off the water heater when you start taking your shower?
If you're in Rv Owner, you should be able to do this, and then he rips the cover off breaking both fasteners. Lol God I love UA-cam.
Great video. Appreciate the explanations of the fittings.
For safety you need to extend the plate on the bottom of the regulator to shield the valve from rocks being thrown up and puncturing the valve.
thank you. so much.you were the only person to help me understand.you saved me a lot.of money.
Thanks. I need to do this since I am off grid with a diesel rig for winter
Nice add on for A,B,& C camper rigs.
Folks should know that the 'left hand tread' nuts are marked plainly with notches through the flats of the left hand threaded fittings. You can see that feature briefly at the 2:08 point of your vid. These are always marked so that they're clearly telling us 'lefty here'.
Very informative thank you so much my problem is now solved
Great , informative instructional video.
Thank you so much for this very informative video!
Good job don’t worry about the people thinking you need tape they don’t understand compression fittings. I need to add this adapter to mine after running out while at Sol duc, long drive to refill. I love Sequim pretty much lived there for 6 months a couple of years ago now visit monthly Thanks
Yes, I did a job about a month ago where somebody had used Teflon tape on a flare fitting. The tape pinched off and fouled out the regulator. This caused them to need a new regulator simply because they didn't know what they were doing. So hopefully my videos will help get the word out on how to do it correctly.
Just did my Forrester 3011 yesterday. Had an issue with the space to the right of the regulator. There was very little space (i.e. yours) and the LP hose was uber stiff. Had to cut two holes in the bay forward of the lp tank to reroute that hose. It appeared in the video the hose you were dealing with was way more flexible than mine. Got mine done and it works but had to sacrifice some space in the storage bay. Seems to me that Forrester could have taken that into consideration into the design. Either use a more flexible hose down range from the regulator or allow more space to the right of the regulator......Good video
Good vid I have been looking to do this exact thing thanks
You are life saver! I got a new RV and nearly froze when my LP ran low and I had no way to get it filled right away. Found your video and blessed be... literal life saving instruction!! Thank you!
I'm in the same ish boat, or should I say RV hahah. But I just got a new RV and have been cooking from the electric appliances but no more after I get this duedad, I'll be cooking on my very own gas stove in no time.
Get a back up Big Buddy series portable propane heater,in case your furnace stops at 2am in winter.Big Buddy or Portable Buddy can also run of a #20 white grill tank,with 12' hose run through cracked window for a little fresh air.They are safe for indoor use,and really kick out fast efficient heat.Really a must have as backup.
UA-cam is full of videos
Very good video MY RV
Thank you ❤
I like that impact driver attachment that allows you to use the impact as a drill instead of buying special drill bits that connect to the impact! I gotta get me one of those!
Hi Nathan,
Make sure to check out Darren's tool page on our website with even more awesome tools: myrvworks.com/resources/darrens-tool-list/
Happy Camping
My RV Works Media Team
"probably' should turn off main tank valve when drilling in this vicinity(especially BEFORE you sniffed for leaks)
Thanks!
Thanks
The tanks are not pressurized like a tank containing a gas would be. The pressure comes from the propane evaporating into a gas from the liquid state that it is stored in. Because of this you're not going to lose any pressure by having both tanks open at once.
Thanks for explaining, yeah I have the flame king kit and bottles so I understand what you mean.
Thanks dear
Right release, left lock
Wow this just popped up too late. It’s now 2024 & we’re one of those facing 13 degree weather. And my RV was slightly damaged in a tornado last week (slide), and not driveable. I’m also out of propane. Great info if I thaw out.
Pro tip: NEVER EVER EVER use channel locks on those 'soft' brass fittings, you can shred them. Use the appropriate wrench.
I agree for the most part, but those Knipex jaws are designed different than Channel Locks.
And what is the appropriate wrench?
You can 10000% use channel locks. Especially the knipex he has here.
Settle down, Frances.
Knipex jaws are the exception, they don't chew up brass fittings. Wonderful invention. I actually made my own smooth jaw with flats 40 years ago for myself. Never thought they would catch on.😂
Auto stores also have the flat. Fork tool designed to remove those plastic buttons without trashing them
Nice job god bless
cool vid :) u r the best rv video wizard out there!!!!!!!!!
Awww, Thanks for the comment and happy camping.
I like the tee. $28 on Amazon and very easy to install IF you can remember the threads are bass ackwards.
In addition to using your frame mounted tank to supply a grill or generator, you can pull propane from shore supply or from 20lb tanks. Then you don't have to take your whole rig to town if your frame mounted tank runs low.
Oh... if you need an adapter to connect to the tee, look for the mr. Buddy heater adapter. $10 Amazon. I can't find them anywhere else because they need the insert to go inside and release the gas.
What is the name / brand of the Regular
I love to watch your program, your information is very informative and clearly explained.
Thanks for watching!
Holy shit. People with all the crying about using wrong tools. This video is not about that.
Having both tanks open will not result in a loss of pressure. Whichever tank has more pressure will feed the appliances being used.
Another tip: for the hose and fittings to connect your 20 lb tank, you can't beat the Harbor Freight torch (for burning grass and thawing frozen water lines) ($22)
Take off the torch and you still have a long hose (about 12 ft) and one adapter. Use the mr buddy propane adapter on the other end. Fot about $30 total you'll have a longer and better adapter than the ones made for this and sold for about $70
I have a couple videos that show what I'm trying to explain.
Thanks for the video. It would be helpful to put links to these regulators you are using and the propane fitting kit too. Thanks so much
Use the proper tools, wrenches instead of pliers, clip pullers. Also, if you drill a hole paint the hole otherwise rust is on its way.
You couldn't be more correct. I have never seen a "professional" use channel locks in place of an actual open end wrench.
@Frank Hayward, you made some good points. I'm a little concerned that people may postpone adjusting their regulator since they need to return it to the original configuration in order to access it.
I noticed that he also created an open space where rocks can hit the regulator from underneath now that the shelf no longer provides100% protection.
@@mthewolf1095 A flare nut wrench is the best tool for this application.
@@mthewolf1095 Depends on if that professional had access to tools. He could just happen to be there at the campground and using whatever tools the owner had in his RV. In that case, the universe didn't implode because he used channel locks.
@@blackgravitycinema Then that is NOT a professional, PERIOD.
You can get a adaptor to screw into your fill connected on your tank to a portable tank lot easier
I have a class C motorhome like the one you are working on .How do I replace the valve at the tank that still has propane in it ? I smell gas when I turn on the valve. I think it is leaking from around the valve stem. Thanks hope you can help me. Great video by the way!
Wasn't able to find the converter part in your list. Where can I purchase that one, and what do they generally cost? Thanks 8n advance. Good video
What brand of these do you recommend? The reviews on Amazon for some of these are terrible. They say they leak. Im in desperate need.
If I wanted to move the gas from my 20 lb tank into the larger (RV) tank, would this hookup work for that? If so, what would you need to do to make that happen?
funny, one of my favorite tools is also a lock picking utensil 😉
Channel locks are a good way to mess up the brass fittings ,use a wrench
We want to attempt this mod also but in our situation the hose that runs past the RV regulator and into the RV itself is exactly the right length! No extra!There's not three extra inches for us to add the tee fitting! Would that mean we would have to change the lp line that's connected directly to our RV also?
How would you install this if you have a GasStop and it’s too long?
I have a new Class C the propane will not flow to any appliance. Then if I drive around it will, then it won't again ? The gas flow is being shut off likely by a faulty valve or regulator ? when it does work it works fine. Thoughts ?
How long does it take to fill rv tank ? 10 min ? Or faster maybe? I just started the change today felt like its taking forever to fill up .
Thank you Darren for this video. I have installed the same on our 2021 Southwind Class A to hook a high pressure BBQ. However, using a 15 feet hose I'm getting oil residue in the BBQ so much that I had to replace the BBQ regulator twice. I've read many advise on the internet from putting a 15 psi regulator at the exit of the tank or a drip tray before the BBQ but none of my reading made total sense. The reason why I wanted this was for a high pressure BBQ as I don't like boiled steak! Any ideas?
Cerrar todas las llaves y dejar que la barbacoa consuma todo el gas de las mangueras.
Thanks for demo!Is there anyway to fill the RV propane tank from the 5 gallon tank? Perhaps if you elevated the 5 gallon tank above RV tank so gravity would force the propane in there? Thanks
Elevate and rotate. The 5 gal tank need to be above and inverted as you are draining fluid from the 5 gal to the onboard tank. (you can use the same process to fill small camp stove bottles - though they have a fairly short life span due to metal fatigue of filling and discharging)
3 things I saw. 1 soap test for leaks. 2 use the proper wrench. And 3 let the aria sit for 5 to 10 minutes after disconnecting propain lines large RVs can hold slot in the lines.
Rather than using it to connect a small tank, can I use this to run a gas line off to a portable furnace or BBQ?
Looking for link to the fitting he uses. Not on his website store link. (Amazon or HW Store Link would be much appreciated).
What regulator do you have on it?
Does anyone know the length of this adapter after it's installed? I don't have a ton of room in there and need to know before I buy.
can you fill your rv onboard tank from a lp tank with this?
Also.. you can open the bleeder valve on the frame mounted tank and put SOME propane in the RV tank but you can't put in much because it will start escaping the bleeder. The tanks won't equalize because there is pressure in the RV tank.
you don't use the stretchy white teflon tape?
shouldn't use channel locks or pliers on brass fittings but very helpful video
Maybe I would have used a wrench, but is this a video about tool selection? I'm sure Darren would have had to eat the cost of the part if he stripped the fitting, so I guess it was his call. I don't understand all the negativity. I'm just glad to learn something!
If your choose to make a video about something, do it right.
I have a question that I can't seem to find an adequate answer to. What is the proper method to purge the air from your onboard LP tank? I was only able to get 4 lbs in my nearly empty 10 lb tank (the gauge was indicating the tank was only about 60% full). The man who filled it said it was because there was too much air in the tank and I needed to purge it out, which evidently takes too long to be accomplished while having the tank filled. The guy tried to tell me how to do it, but English wasn't his primary language, and while I believe I understood what he was trying to describe, I kinda wanted to confirm that I have the right idea. The simple part I get, open the purge valve and let it hiss. My main concern is how I know when it's sufficiently purged? The guy said it would start spraying white mist like the purge valve on the filler hose did. I have some questions here, like how do I know I'm not just letting gas out of the tank as the pressure drops and the propane evaporates into gas until my tank is empty?
I just bought 1976 coachman RV that has been setting out in the elements for at least 8 yrs. Are their any precautions other than it is highly flammable and explosiv do you think the think the stuff will still work?everything suposeble worked fine.Say yes please.
I'm new at this what when where and how do I get an answer?
Does it make a difference that the outflow screen facing down on the regulator is now no longer protected by the metal pan splash guard? There will be quite a bit of junk flying up off the tire right to the underside of the regulator.
if the fitting has a groove in the flats it is left hand thread
Can anyone tell me why the Amerigas or the blue propane canister does not send propane into my RV.
Where’s the part? Do you have a link to it?
Where can I buy all the parts and the bit to open the hole.
Why do have to have your reg adjustment once a year for? Never heard that before.?Thks john wino
If you've ever taken one of those Regulators apart you will find a butyl rubber diaphragm. Those diaphragms fatigue over time so it is good to check them to verify they are delivering the proper LP pressure to the appliances in your unit. Also the lifespan of a regulator is 10 years at which point they should be replaced.
Why does the regulator need to be adjusted every year? I've never touched mine, other than replace it once a few years ago, and bet I'm not alone on this.
Hi Ron,
Thanks for the question. I have been collecting some old regulators for an upcoming video I am planning where I will disassemble them and provide even more details on what makes them work.
Inside the clam shell is a rubber diaphragm. Over time that diaphragm will fatigue. Also heat and cold play into the regulator's performance and accuracy. So to help combat these variables, and to verify your LP appliances are receiving the correct pressure, it is good practice to verify and adjust the regulator at the beginning of the season and replace them every 10 years.
I can state for the record that most of the older RV's I work on, that still have their original regulators installed, are way out of adjustment. I present RV preventative maintenance seminars at RV parks and rally's etc and offer discounts to folks to perform this service. 80% are out of adjustment! Some not by much but it will affect the LP appliances all the same. Also, for the record, most new regulators I replace are not adjusted correctly either. Think of checking the air in your tires.
Thanks for the comment and Happy Camping!
Cheers,
Darren Koepp
@@MyRVWorks THANKS! I never knew the regulator could be adjusted or there are rubber seals & whatever that could easily decay over time. Seems like i best have my 22yr old regulator checked!
Question : After filling my propane tank a couole months back, i noticed my stove top burners are much stronger (bigger flame) where i had noticed they had become weaker over time. Even the fridge burns hotter again and is thus colder. Could that be an indication of a regulator issue? Seems like it could. No leaks in system, etc..
At about 9:50 you state it's about a 1/8 inch flare fitting. It's actually a 1/4 inch flare fitting.
Try a small pry bar ?!
Have you done any work on a Toyota Chinook
We sure have, but more specifically we don't focus on the make and model of the RV, we mostly focus on the make and model of the individual systems within the RV. So, things like water heater, furnace, refrigerator, those aren't particularly specific to your RV manufacturer those are specific to the manufacturer of the appliance. And that is where we focus most of our time and talent.
I didn't see or hear the name of that piece. What is it called?
Use a wrench less damage.
Can the new connection be used to fill an empty on-board tank on the RV? (using a portable 20 lb tank)
I bet you could. I will try it and try to make a video of it.
No.
He said in another comment no because 20lb tank didn't have enough pressure to do so. My on board tank is empty too so I was hoping it could.
What is the adapter called
I need that. Where do I find it or get one? You just run a hose direct from the portable tank to the valve with no need for a regulator? What is it called?
Hi CKS, sorry for the late reply. Here you go: amzn.to/3nocqn0
(note: we get a small commission for this amazon affiliate link)
Hi Darren, If I wanted to set up 2 external tanks with an automatic changeover, then, am I correct in assuming that I would have to put the extend-a-stay after the regulator so that there wouldn't be 2 regulators in line which would restrict the flow (since changeover valves seem to only be available with regulators)?
Since the extend-a-stay is designed to be installed before the regulator, you can still do your plan with the auto changeover to the Extend-a-Stay and then through the second regulator. That would be your easiest installation option. There's no harm in going through two regulators. The pressure in the RV will be determined by whichever regulator is set to the lowest. But going through two regulators will not adversely affect the overall pressure.
@@MyRVWorksHi Darren, thank you for taking the time to reply. A belated Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year to you & your family.
I attached the extend-a-stay in between the motorhome's tank and the regulator just like you did in the video. The issue I am having is that when I turn off the motorhome tank and only use the external tanks, the furnace will not stay on, it starts off fine but after a few minutes it sputters and then there is no flame. It will work perfectly with the built in tank valve open so I'm convinced that it's a pressure problem
The setup is two new and full 100Lb. tanks with a Fairview GR-9984 High Capacity RV Camper LP Propane Automatic Changeover Regulator (345,000 BTU's Per Hour Capacity. Set at standard propane low pressure - 11" Water Column). I have tried three switch-over valves 2 Flame King and another brand and always have the same result. The only thing I haven't tried yet is to move the extend-a-stay to the other side of the regulator.
@@mikeRadamz If you are confirming that the AMSE tank service valve is closed when the system is drawing from your external tanks, then I would be curious what the LP pressure is at the furnace. That would really be your go to answer regarding any success on moving the extended stay to the opposite side of the existing regulator.
I do make and sell LP tap jigs that could be useful in your application.
myrvworksstore.square.site/product/stand-alone-taps-accessories/602?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=3
I was just curious, is there a way to fill up your RV propane tank with the smaller propane tank if you don't want to break camp?
Not really with just using those as tools. It's a function of the gas law. You would need more pressure to fill your tank and the smaller cylinders just don't have it. That is why on these adapters there's a way to turn off your tank so all of the lp pressure can be used from the cylinder instead.
Yes. Install another valve on the regulator side. Close both valves. Attach pony tank. With the tank upside down. Open both tank valves. The liquid will flow to the tank until the pressure equalizes. Ease open the tank vent and it will allow the liquid to push out vapors. Filling the tank. Ps I'm not giving instructions or advise. Just saying how I would do it.
Put leather on those grips to protect the fittings.
Can you actually recharge the large permanently installed talk with a portable 20lb tank or two? Would save driving the entire motor home to a twill location.
There is a way to do this, it's outlined in the NFPA 1192 chapter 5. It's very complicated and involves holding the tank upside down and using special hoses. Not really practical for RVers.
Not exactly related to this video, but how does one replace the “80% full” valve? On our previous motorhome it expelled gas when the tank was 80% full. On our current motorhome the 80% valve never expels gas, and one campground had difficulty filling our propane tank. The guy who filled the tank said he had never seen one that didn’t expel gas when the tank was approaching the 80% level. He thought that valve might be bad. So how does one replace that valve?
Yes, it does sound like you have a faulty valve. For your area, if a shop/dealer will not perform that task for you, look for a place that supplies LP tanks, like for houses and businesses. They may have a certified tank technician that can get that done.
I know that the dealership that I worked at did not perform work on the actual tank due to licensing and training issues.
@@MyRVWorks you can also check for equipment rental yards. They have folks on hand to repair tanks or at least troubleshoot. Ours isn't certified but they have well over 40yrs experience. Plus our onboard tank is exempt from certification which is great as long as i find a good propane tech person.
Where do you store your extra propane tank?
Never keep a 20# White Grill propane tank inside any RV/Dwelling/ etc.
What’s that peace really called
Would be nice if you gave us a link to the adapter
I greatly appreciate and value your comment! Links to tools and parts I reference in the video’s is something that has been discussed in our office meetings many times. We are considering doing it in future uploads but want to make sure it fits with our purpose of making the video’s in the first place. I am careful not to turn my tech video’s into commercials - there are enough channels trying to market and push so many things. My reason for the channel is not to be yet another ‘me-too’ product reviewer. There are several different MFG’s that make these add-on adaptors each with different features and benefits. I try to focus on the tech side of things and let folks know they have options. From that I hope they get value from what I share and decide to go deeper in making their own choice on what is best for them.
I really appreciate you and your comment! Thanks for watching and happy camping!
Cheers,
Darren Koepp
@@Questionmarks237 Thanks for the link
@@Questionmarks237 ya $25 in usa and $70 in canada.... sigh*
Anyone have link to bypass valve the website link is broken lol
Do u have a valid link to buy this propane bypass kit
amzn.to/3WxIbt9
so if you just want to fill the rv tank off of the 20lb, will you only get 10 lbs left in each tank? is it possible to get all 20lbs into the rv tank so you don't have to leave the 20lb tank outside??
The gas law does not work this way. This is not what this adapter is used for. When this adapter is used, and connected to an aux cylinder, the main tank should be shut off. If you leave the main tank valve open you are totally reducing all of your vapor pressure and your appliances will probably not work.
No
That regulator is now a long overhung load, unsupported from below. I'd be concerned about the brass fittings failing from fatigue just due to the vibration of normal driving. The regulator is also exposed to the street now that it's extended beyond the supporting steel base when you installed the new rivet. I like this mod but think the fatigue risk should be addressed.
You know it's not like there's a 5 pound barbell on it.....it'll be fine!
The regulator is not supported in the original factory installation. Only the plastic cover was attached to the metal plate of the large cylinder. And that cover weighs very little.
Probably should sniff for gas leaks before running a motor with brushes.
Do not use pliers on brass fittings, use open end wrenches. Pliers can deform the fitting.
I added this piece to my rv and the stove propane turns on but the water heater does not is there something I’m missing
That's very strange, if it's not too much trouble could you remove that added piece and see if it works correctly and then add the piece back? That will tell you if there's a defect. I'm wondering if there may not be some issue with the water heater itself. I don't see the connection between adding this item and the water heater not working if the stove is working. Here's a link to my water heater playlist. Perhaps something here will help you troubleshoot that Appliance. ua-cam.com/play/PLk44vSl27TRDhGFiTI7MnrHqlE3mk7Xa5.html
two wrenches, two!
Who makes regulator
Where do you get that adapter ?
Here is a link on Amazon to one I prefer to install for folks. I like the quick disconnect feature over the screw on type: amzn.to/2tfnGbS
Do you have link for that part?
Looks like no.
Part #, please!!!
@@jimthacker1732 search this on Amazon.
Stanbroil Propane Brass Tee Adapter Kit with 4-Port with 5-feet and 12-feet Hose for Motorhome or RV
2:31 sigh.. don't use pliers.. have a crescent wrench always on hand...