when I bought my van, the PO had installed a tap that was accessible
from the pantry.  The tap is for a catalytic heater and there is a
quick release hose plus manual shut-off.  I use this for the catalytic
heater from time to time.

I've often wondered about the possibility of buying some hose, a
quick-release fitting, and connecting this to a backup propane
cylinder.  My Westy propane seems to go out during the middle of
camping.  Well, that makes since because that's the only time I use
the stove.

-- Craig

On Fri, 21 Jan 2005 14:21:06 -0700, jimt <camper@tactical-bus.info> wrote:
> I have tried several methods of propane on my van.  The best for most uses
> is the Westy tank.  You can get it made in longer lengths but the price is
> very steep.
>
> Next I used a large bottle (30 pounder) attached to the rear (not stock
> bumper) and tapped into a "dual" tank splice that I installed up front of
> the westy tank.  This setup I used for extreme cold camping with a heavy
> propane heater.
>
> My current setup (with heater out) and westy tank removed, uses the small
> disposables and a 5 pound tank.  I installed a rack for the bottles under
> the cabinet and carry 4 14oz bottles with me.  The 5 pounder gets attached
> to my portable fridge and will last 4 to 6 days and with an adapter I can
> add the smaller bottles if needed.  I usually will use about 2 of the small
> bottles for coffee and cooking over a 5 day camping.
>
> For most people with a westy in the summer the single westy tank with 12
> pounds will last for a couple weeks.  With the second westy tank you can go
> for at least a month of continuous use.
>
> My system is in redesign again right now but will use the following.
> A bumper rack for my 30 pounder for winter camps
> A redesigned rack for carrying 4 14oz bottles and 3 one pound bottles.
> A rack for transporting my 5 pounder. (it sits outside when in use)
>
> My stove is being replaced with a different type in a movable cabinet that
> can be picked up and moved outdoors when I want.  The sink will still be
> inside with the water system.
>
> My fridge is already a portable that I move outdoors when camped.
>
> Trying to fill the westy tank without a special hose cant be done.  You have
> to be above the tank to "pour" the liquid in.
>
> If you have spliced your lines with some special fittings you can get
> adapters that you can use to use the disposable bottles.  Did that and had
> to many leaks to look out for.  If you do any splicing get a propane
> detector and install it.  (BTW these are the law on newer RVs)
> jimt
>
> On 1/21/05 1:47 PM, "Doug in Calif" <vanagon@ASTOUND.NET> wrote:
>
> > Rather than installing two HEAVY propane tanks, why not figure out a way to
> > connect a standard 16oz propane bottle to the system for back up and
> > extended use. You can buy them as cheap as 99cents on sale. They are
> > lightweight and will store easily in the van.
> >
> > Better yet, it seems possible to empty the contents of the smaller cylinders
> > into the main tank if you vent the main and turn the small bottle upside
> > down with proper connectors. This will especially work I think if the main
> > tank is cold and the bottle is slightly warm?
> >
> > Anybody have any luck with recharging the main tank this way?  One of the
> > benefits is you have the reserve back up since there is no real gauge on the
> > main tank.
> >
> > Doug
> > ----- Original Message -----
> > From: "Markus Mumper" <mumper@USA.NET>
> > To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
> > Sent: Wednesday, January 19, 2005 10:21 PM
> > Subject: Westy Fridge Endurance
> >
> >
>