Ellen,
Yes, it does make a difference which way the gas flows through the regulator and there
should be an arrow stamped on the regulator indicating such. And if you look at this
page:

http://www.gowesty.com/ec_view_details.php?id=2447&category_id=129&category_parent_id=
that is the small end pointing toward the valve. You also see the small plastic
covers, which replace the old complete cover on the old Westy regulators.
And to add to or clarify what I said (and based on others comments :)), the Westy tank
has a heavy attached gravel guard which somewhat protects the regulator. I don't see
one on your ASI tank.
Yes, the vent SHOULD face down to help keep it free of debris, but somehow, I got two
of the new style with the vent facing in the direction of gas flow. On the '90 #1
tank, I re-worked the old cover to fit. On the '90 #2 tank, I had to make a new cover
out of an old Tupper-ware like container and some nylon zip-ties!
Okay, you can all stop laughing now. They work and I've had no problems.
So, I guess I still think a new box might be best.
Jerry

----- Original Message -----
From: "Ellen in Oregon" <elleninoregon@HOTMAIL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Sunday, May 27, 2007 1:59 PM
Subject: Re: Propane regulator replacement on ASI conversion

> Those hoses are just crusted with road grime; I cleaned them off and they
> look fine.  They're stamped for LP use.
>
> As I mentioned, I already bought a new regulator "just in case".  There is a
> large end and a small end.  On my current setup, the small end points
> towards the tank valve.  However, I looked at a picture of a tank with the
> regulator on it, and the large end is towards the tank valve.  Then I went
> to two vanagon parts vendor sites, and got mirror images of the regulator.
> I added those two pictures to my album:
>
>
http://s10.photobucket.com/albums/a113/sweetcatkins/Propane%20regulator%20replacement/
>
> If mounting the regulator on the tank is an option, shouldn't the vent be
> pointing down?  Does it matter which way the propane gas flows through the
> regulator?  So much to learn, so little time :)
>
> Thanks for all the help so far!
>
> Ellen
> Lola, '85 Vanagon ASI
>