I can see the attraction of the propex.� Most of the posts about putting in one of these bigger heaters make it seem easier than it is.  And I scratched the paint when cutting a hole in the van.  I probably needed to tape around where I was cutting before I started.  I am happy now that I am done, but I don't know if I would do one of these again.� 
Dave

--- On Sun, 2/20/11, Frank Condelli <ralanen@AOL.COM> wrote:

> Dave, you
> should have installed a Propex.� Much simpler, quieter,
> efficient, etc.� See my Propex webpage.
> 
> 
> On 2011-02-20, at 12:00 PM, Automatic digest processor
> wrote:
> 
> > I just finished installing an Atwood propane heater in
> my westy.� What a PITA!!!� O.k. maybe not that bad
> compared to some of the crummy vanagon jobs, but it took all
> day and several trips to the store to get the supplies.
> > 
> > Fortunately several people have put this heater in
> Westies before so their are install pics and
> instructions.� Still you have to check measurements
> twice because you are cutting into the side of your van and
> permanently modifying your cabinet.
> > 
> > And if you are not familiar with flaring propane lines
> putting in tees and bends you may wind up doing them 3 times
> like I did.���Wiring up the thermostat and
> power was simple in comparison.� The furnace sticks out
> of the little cabinet by the fridge by about an inch, so you
> have to come up with some way to trim it and make it look
> good.
> > 
> > But like other tricky jobs, there is always a sense of
> accomplishment at the end.� I lose the little cabinet
> by the fridge for storage, but having a real heater is
> nice.
> 
>