Compartment floor in Propane bay?

[JohnParker]

When I was MH shopping, I noticed that some units have a fully enclosed propane compartment and some do not. The unit I finally bought is an '07 Dutch Star. It is one of those with an open propane compartment. That is to say that there is no 'floor' and the tank is open to the elements, especially while driving.

It would seem to me that, since the frame could accomodate a floor in this part of the basement and the space could be used to hold things such as tire chocks, jack pads, or other non-combustibles, and a 'floor' would enclose and protect the propane tank from road hazards, a floor should be added.

My question is... Is this open-on-the-bottom compartment due to regulation to allow emergency access to the propane tank? Is this a weight saving tactic? Other reason?

[BigSkyBob]

My coach has an expanded metal floor. I had always assumed it was open to allow any leaking vapors to escape from the tank compartment. I had considered enclosing mine but felt it was a safety issue and decided against it.

[RustyJC]

The propane tank enclosure should be vented in case of propane leaks. Since propane is heavier than air, it will sink should a leak develop. Therefore, most RVs will have either a vented (perforated) floor or an open bottom on the propane tank enclosure. I frankly wouldn't want one that's fully enclosed and sealed!!

Rusty

[gregd]

Quote:

Originally Posted by RustyJC The propane tank enclosure should be vented in case of propane leaks. I frankly wouldn't want one that's fully enclosed and sealed!! Rusty

I agree Rusty. But I have seen road debris turn into shrapnel at highway speeds. Expanded metal across the floor of the enclosure seems like it would be safer.

Greg

[frankdamp]

On our GT, it's open, but the spare wheel is attached below it, which gives some proection from road debris.

[RustyJC]

Quote:

Originally Posted by gregd I agree Rusty. But I have seen road debris turn into shrapnel at highway speeds. Expanded metal across the floor of the enclosure seems like it would be safer.

"Sealed" was the operative word in my initial response. I really don't care especially if the floor is perforated or if the bottom is open, but in response to the original poster's statement about adding a floor, I wouldn't want to add a solid floor that would prevent ventilation of the compartment for the reason I stated.

Rusty

[wa8yxm]

Propane is heavier than air.. Thus without a floor if there is a leak it hits the ground and dissipates fairly quickly.

An occasional once over with steel (or nylon) to knock off surface rust and a spray with a good quality Rust Control paint... and it should outlast the coach it's bolted in.


With a floor.. The vapors can build up and ... Well... Bad things can happen.

[Mr_D]

Safety is the reason, it's for ventilation. Also, the door can't be locked so the propane can be turned off by anyone in an emergency. No need for a key or to break a lock.

[njs42]

I have mulled this over after reading this thread and for me I guess it is an area of my coach I would leave exactly as it was designed.

If I did anything I would use that mesh type of steel and pehaps only cover half.

One thing for sure there is a lot of open space around my tank.

[MackDaddy]

Good comments I just installed expanded metal below my tank 2011 DSDP easy to do and added little storage space so I can carry more things I will probably never use. LOL

[JohnParker]

Thanks Guys;

I am aware that the compartment should be vented for leaks and does not have a lock so as to permit access in an emergency.

Mostly I was interested in how many out there have a 'floor' be it expanded metal or otherwise to protect the tank from road hazards. I was designing an expanded metal installation and thought it might be a good idea to see what others had done and whether there was some regulatory issue that required the propane compartment to be completely open at the bottom and exposed as it is now.

["007"]

Didn't think of before why not take your MH down to local fire dept and ask them what restricts may be and why.

[ottffss]

The restrictions are going to be Federal DOT/OTR and RVIA. Fire dept most likely won't know Fed law, but will certainly have opinions, like us!

BTW - as far as the mesh for deflecting road hazards. Is that really a solution to a completely non-existent problem?

Of course, adding some storage space for volatiles like 1lb propane cylinders, butane stove canisters, or a small gas can is really nice.

I simply put a wire shelf above my tank (resting on the tank and nylon tied to the frame rail) for all that stuff.

[dougburi]

I had an American Tradition with an enclosed but vented propane compartment. Kept the tank and area clean and a good place to store some stuff. I installed a plywood floor in my Dutch Aire and left a 2 inch gap in the back for ventilation. Keeps the tank and area clean and a good place to store stuff. It was fast, easy, and cheap to do. You decide.