I think the answer lies in the pressure the little cylinders contain.  That
could be measured simply.  I have about 10 of those in my Westy right now,
resting safely inside an old Marine ammo case, but don't have the tool to
measure the pressure.
  -----Original Message-----
  From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com]On Behalf Of
Cary Chiang
  Sent: Thursday, November 01, 2001 1:19 PM
  To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
  Subject: Re: Propane tank connecting to Black Cat heaters

  I previously contacted Coleman customer service regarding attaching the
Black Cat to a bulk cylinder.  Although it can be done physically with a
hose, they were adamant against doing so.  Said that their engineers tried
it, and the high pressure "blew the head off".  I don't know if they were
using a 15 PSI regulator like which comes on our Westys.  Even if the heater
works without a flame, I don't think anyone would want to risk a bulk tank
full of highly explosive  propane gas exhausting into their van without
warning.  Perhaps a automatic safety shut-off  valve can be plumbed into the
gas line ahead of the Black Cat.  Does anyone know what the PSI is of the
propane disposable cylinders the heater is designed to use?

  Cary

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