Propane Tanks

[jackjanos]

The propane tanks, at least on the early 365's are the Horizontal-type tanks.  The problem is that these tanks do not come with an OPD (Overfilling Protection Device).  There is an NFPA code that states that there is an EXEMPTION No.2 which states "Cylinders manufactured prior to October 1, 1998 and designed for use in a horizontal position for which an overfilling prevention device is not available.  Such cylinders shall have a label to indicate that they are not equipped with an overfilling prevention device."

This label shall be as follows:

THIS HORIZONTAL PROPANE TANK IS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AN OVERFILLING PROTECTION DEVICE Reference: NFPA 58: LP Gas Code; Page #12 Ch.2 Pgh. 2.3.1.5 (d) Exemption No.2

Has anyone had a problem getting these tanks filled?  If so, where did you get this done?

Are there up-to-date replacement tanks with OPD's that will fit in the 365.

Has anyone replaced these tanks with different up-to-date tanks?

Any help much appreciated.

Jack

[Jim S]

Perhaps this is a tad off subject, but you can transfer propane from one tank to another. This is what I do on Phantom, specifically topping off the main tank so I do not have to change tanks underway.  If you were to utilize this technique, then you would carefully inspect the existing horizontal tanks.  If they are serviceable, then make the transfer hoses.

This would allow you to fill your existing tanks from a current tank.

Do not do anything unsafe.  Propane will blow you to the moon!

[SVJourney]

I did some research a few years ago and this is about the best I could find:  https://www.westmarine.com/worthington-aluminum-lpg-cylinder-20-lb.-5-gal-horizontal-orientation-196134.html

They do fit in the aft laz propane locker, but barely.

Fortunately, Dana worked at WM so we got a hefty discount on it. If not then just looking into finding that Worthington part number from a different source might be better.  Also, this tank was hard to find a place who could fill them in some remote international locations because they can only be filled from the service nozzle.

I would do everything I could to keep using the old tanks if you can.  They fit better and perform better.  The Worthington tanks are safer though as they have automatic shut off in case of a large system leak.  I was forced to buy one when the guy doing the 5 year inspection broke the valve. 

Filling the old uncertified tanks is a matter of finding a service station that has no training or maybe scruples about obeying the rules.  Farm supply?  It was just fine overseas as nobody cared.  The exception was New Zealand and Australia who required propane systems that were up to their very stringent standards.  I ended up using the hack described by Jim S above in places like that. 

[jackjanos]

Thanks for all info.  However, I did find that the old tanks CAN be refilled in the US under an Exemption. Attached is a copy of the Exemption info.  I presented this to my local propane dealer and they gladly refilled my old tank.

Jack