On my '87, same problem.  Talked to a tech at my local propane supply place
and was informed that they should only last about 12 or so years.  For $25
and about twenty minutes work, I got myself a new one.  Not sure what was
used on your era van, but the Marshall 260 used on mine is not available.
The next model up is a bit longer and requires you to bend the gas lines
into the cabin quite a bit.  There have been recent propane threads - you
might look back for more info.

Good luck,
Tom Salicos
'87 Westy
'76 Beetle [HVNCDY]

----- Original Message -----
From: "Charles Keeter" <keeterc@HOME.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Saturday, September 15, 2001 2:08 PM
Subject: LP gas regulator leak.

> Hi all,
>
> A quick question. I was out working on my 1983.5 Westy and I heard and
> smelled propane gas. The bus had been down for a while due to a fuel
system
> problem, When I went under the bus to repair it.  I tracked the sound and
> escaping gas to a vent hole on the LP gas regulator itself. I turned off
> the gas valve and it stopped.
>
> My question is, what is causing the leak and is it repairable or do I need
> to replace the regulator itself.
>
> Thanks!
>
> Chuck Keeter
>
> keeterc@home.com