Hi all,

When I bought my Westy sight unseen through eBay, I had my concerns.  Phew!  As it turns out, the guy I bought it from is an ace of a guy, the mechanic that many of you recommended to me in Connecticut is fantastic, and I just didn’t realize the added benefit that this community brings to it all. Thanks! I shipped it up to Frank for a complete go through, and other than a few relatively minor issues, the most major being needed replacement of the muffler, it seems that (at least today) I’ve inherited a cream puff.  I can now focus on some of the fun stuff, getting ready for my two month excursion.  

I do have a question. I have the original propane tank, or at least the original style.  The guys working on my vehicle suggest that it could get wonky out there when I try to fill her up, not due to condition, but due to age and new regulations. Some will fill it.  Some will not. They said I may want to replace the tank with a new one, and while I have not really looked into it yet in detail, it seems that it may cost close to $400. For those who have used the inside stove regularly, have you faced this issue?  With daily but not excessive use, do you have a sense how long a tank of gas lasts?  I can certainly carry a Coleman or portable stove as well but would like the convenience of “rolling out of bed” and making breakfast on a rainy day. Any opinions or input you all have would be appreciated.

Art