This is quite normal.  The service valve used does not have a stem seal as do similar water valves therefor they may leak a bit when in transit from the full open to full closed position.  That valve should ALWAYS be in the full open or full closed position not in-between.

On 2013-07-08, at 5:48 PM, Automatic digest processor <LISTSERV@GERRY.VANAGON.COM> wrote:

> Hi Listers,
> 
> I recently decided to try all appliances before heading to West River =
> Westies next weekend.  When I turned on the propane tank I heard a small =
> air sound and smelled propane.  I turned the valve all the way to open =
> and as I turned the sound got louder.  at the full open position the =
> sound stopped.  The smell of propane was still in the air so I decided =
> not to test the stove after all!  I then began to turn the valve to the =
> off position.  On the way there the hissing sound returned and the sound =
> of propane.  When completely in the off position the hissing continued =
> for a few seconds then the sound and smell went away.  Any thoughts on =
> what is going on?  The tank is on a well cared for van with almost no =
> rust.  The tank itself is a bit rusty more then anything else on the =
> camper.
> 
> Recommendations on my next step in having a healthy system is greatly =
> appreciated.

Cheers,    

Frank Condelli
Almonte, Ontario, Canada
'87 VW Westy, '00 Kawasaki 250 Sherpa, "98 Ducati 750 Monster & Lionel Trains (Collection for sale)
Frank Condelli & Associates - Vanagon/Vanagon Westfalia Service in the Ottawa Valley
BusFusion a VW Camper camping event, Almonte, ON, June 06 ~ 09, 2013