> I realize there'd be a loss of space in putting a 'standard' bottle in a
> Westy, but what are the other pros and cons to converting?

the big issue is that you need the propane container
OUTSIDE the vehicle -- a small leak inside, mixed
with air = explosion

alan

----- Original Message -----
From: "Robert Fisher" <refisher@MCHSI.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Monday, May 16, 2005 9:49 AM
Subject: Re: propane filling question ... do it at home?

> --clip--
> > It seems at least for me that finding filling stations is like trying to
> > find a payphone. They are getting harder and harder to find.
> --clip--
>
> I was thinking about this while reading this thread- in my neck of the sand,
> those "American PPX" stands are at Walmart, some of the grocery stores, etc.
> and they seem to have had the predictable effect of driving out the
> old-style propane stations. I think there are maybe two places left in the
> area where you can drive up and get a tank filled. I guess people with the
> larger, older style bottles on their RVs may have to switch them out if
> those two go away, or get their propane on the road somewhere. We have a
> propane supplier that services houses but I don't think you can drive up to
> their depot and get a bottle filled.
>
> I realize there'd be a loss of space in putting a 'standard' bottle in a
> Westy, but what are the other pros and cons to converting? Seems like if you
> put one in you could just put a scale under it and use that for your gauge.
> I keep a full spare bottle around ('cause you only run out while you're
> using it, right?) but that of course is another problem in a small camper.
>
> BTW, here in SoCal I've been asked to help fill a tank (old guy couldn't
> free up the screw) and I've been told to 'remain behind the painted line for
> insurance reasons...', and there were many others that just didn't seem to
> care- no self-service, tho.
>
> Cya,
> Robert
>