DON'T put the LP tank in the van...

That's the most common cause of LP related fires, from what I've seen.

If your lp tank is leaking don't light a match?

So where do you put the lp tank? Is that the only problem with this type of system, a leaking tank?

Basically, the only place to put the tank is outside, under the van. Keep in mind that the tank is pressurized- up to 300 PSI, as I recall. So you don't want that in the van. After the regulator (which is located on the tank), the pressure is 1/2 PSI.

A common cause of fire when the tank is located in the van is if the tank falls over and the regulator breaks off as a result, venting pressurized propane into the van. This is virtually impossible if the tank is belly- mounted outside, because the regulator is shielded by the guard on the tank and the lower body of the van.

Propane tanks are built to such standards, that even when shot with a 30-06 for demonstration purposes, they do not puncture and rupture. So the real problem is if the regulator breaks off, which is virtually impossible in an outside mount.

that is scary, i am new to this, why do you use propane for?

So could that be why insurance on truckmounts is a bit higher?

This may be off the subject a little but has anyone heard of a portable ever catching fire and if so what brand and what was the outcome?

Interesting post Rob, one thing that was stress by one of the IICRC instructor in a recent class is "always carry a Fire Extinguisher and a First Aid Kit" By the way, in some states Fire Extinguisher are required by law. This is a reminder to go ahead and buy one, safety first.

I used to have a propane fired unit and I'm so glad I don't have one anymore. I have an EL DIABLO now and I couldn't be happier with it. I think propane is the most dangerous heating source for truckmounts. Someone had mentioned that propane heat was consistent - I couldn't disagree more - I used one for 7 years with a LG 3HT and I always had a ton of surges of heat - constantly going up and down. The biggest thing about propane to me was it was just a pain in the ass to deal with - constantly taking the tanks off and finding a place to refill - not to mention my kerosene/diesel unit is much more economical.

Originally Posted by CarpetKing

Someone had mentioned that propane heat was consistent - I couldn't disagree more - I used one for 7 years with a LG 3HT and I always had a ton of surges of heat - constantly going up and down.

That's why. You had a Little Giant. They can't keep up, so they "surge" when the wand isn't keyed.

Originally Posted by CarpetKing

The biggest thing about propane to me was it was just a pain in the ass to deal with - constantly taking the tanks off and finding a place to refill.

"Take the tanks off..."

Huh...?

Once you've "found a place to refill", why not make that a regular stop? When I cleaned, I filled at one of two places (a U-Haul and a gas company), depending upon which part of town I was in. I didn't "look" for a place. I knew after the first time I went, where it was.... Thought I did "look" for lower prices from time to time.

Duane, I usually filled up at the same spots as well - I guess I just don't like propane - to me its just much easier to pump some diesel in a tank than to have propane filled. With diesel I always know exactly how much I have left as well. I always worried about being in a wreck and someone hitting my tanks. Oh and leaks too - like I said I just dont like propane.

Duane to clarify I had two grill tanks mounted to the axle of a trailer.

Well, the truth is that you can get a remote mount gas gauge for LP as well, that shows you at the steering wheel if you want it there, what your level is. But of course, that wouldn't work on a trailer.

Personally, I've never liked trailers. But you actually have an advantage of sorts with one. With two tanks, you always have a back- up. So you always know when to fill one, but you're not out of commission in the meantime.

Hey, I'm not knockin' oil- fired. We build them (and exchangers) as well. LP, oil and HX all have advantages and disadvantages. It's a scissors / rock / paper thing.

Well it is great that you give people choice Duane. You have no axe to grind in way of choice. Some people will ALWAYS never like a particular heating method or another regardless. So just point out the perceived advantages/dis-advantages or each and let them decide. Be content that they picked your equipment to get the job done out of the many choices out there. That is the real win.