Do I need to replace my propane tank regulator?

[Kevin K]

I think this is a original 1983 regulator. My problem is the white thing on the top rotted away.
What is it for?
Did a soap test NO gas leaks.
Should I replace it?
Stills works.

[floyd]

Originally Posted by Kevin K

I think this is a original 1983 regulator. My problem is the white thing on the top rotted away.
What is it for?
Did a soap test NO gas leaks.
Should I replace it?
Stills works.
Attachment 39593

If it fails it will likely fail internally and cause aggravation while you are trying to recreate.Eventhough they are reliable ,a new one is cheap insurance, while you are at it, check the hose for surface cracks.

[BCDave]

Originally Posted by Kevin K

I think this is a original 1983 regulator. My problem is the white thing on the top rotted away.
What is it for?
Did a soap test NO gas leaks.
Should I replace it?
Stills works.
Attachment 39593

The fact that you are thinking about is a pretty good indicator that the answer is "yes - you should replace the regulator plus any & all hoses"

If in doubt - on something safety related - don't take chances!

[Kevin K]

Single-Stage Regulator

or

Two stage Regulator
Which one should I buy?

[Perry J]

If everything works well and there are no leaks I would roll the regulator on it's side so no water collects in the recess and forget it.
John

[Rick G]

Originally Posted by Kevin K

I think this is a original 1983 regulator. My problem is the white thing on the top rotted away.
What is it for?
Did a soap test NO gas leaks.
Should I replace it?
Stills works.
Attachment 39593

Hi,

The cover is important for two reasons. One, it prevents a very small leaking of gas through the regulator adjustment mechanism. I have been able to hear a slight whistling noise on occasion when I have had the cover off. Two, the pressure adjustment is directly inside the cover. Without the cover, your propane pressure could get adjusted without you realizing it.

New two stage regulators are only about 30 bucks at any RV dealer, so I would replace it. The old one stage regulators are no longer considered to be safe, although they worked fine for decades. Plus, if the cover has rotted away, I would wonder why. It seems very odd.

Rick G.

[Kevin K]

I think because it's 28 years old.

[Greg H]

They sell singles everyday at the hardware stores, I use singles on everything.

[lamimartin]

Originally Posted by Kevin K

I think because it's 28 years old.

Propane fridge and heater require accurate and regular supply of 11 inch of gas pressure, as indicated in the user's manual. Jetting is calculated for best results using such pressure. The two stage regulators are more accurate than the one stage regulator wich are OK for BBQ or stove top, but not for main RV supply.

Old regulator is likely to become innacurate and reduce fridge and heater efficiency. If you replace it, you should get the special sealing paste or yellow teflon tape on the thread. You may also want to check if there is not a water buildup on the lowest part of your pipes under the RV floor. This would compromise free flow of gas.

Gas is just too important and dangerous to tolerate questionnable equipment.

[Kevin K]

lamimartin GREAT information.