Community Forums

oldguyrich · 03-09-2016, 06:15 PM

I have a 1990 Flair. the main LP shut off valve leaks internally- not out into the air, but into the stove, and to the water heater valve.. (The water heater valve stops the gas from getting through there.) I can turn it tightly closed, but it leaks anyway. Seems like Rv mechanics won't touch it unless i get it drained, and certified empty. I need I need a new valve, but I am stuck...any help? any ideas? Thanks

BrianGlenn · 03-09-2016, 06:17 PM

Is there enough room/space to add a second main shutoff in series downstream of the tank leaking valve?

My thought.
Brian

twinboat · 03-09-2016, 06:40 PM

Call a propane dealer and see if they can switch it.

This must happen to others.

You could plumb in a second valve but it becomes a safety thing. Responders are trained to turn off the main valve.

oldguyrich · 03-09-2016, 06:51 PM

"Call a propane dealer and see if they can switch it."

thats the problem. can't find an Rv guy who will look at. needs to be "certified empty", (pump out all propane, and pump in some inert chemical) and cannot find any one to fix it without that certification.
AND can not find anyone to pump it out!

429CV23 · 03-10-2016, 07:15 AM

Don't call an 'Rv guy'. Call a local propane supplier. They will be able to perform the repair, or direct you to someone who can. There is no way to 'pump it out' - it is under pressure to maintain the bulk of it in liquid phase; they'll burn off the propane in your tank prior to removing the valve and replacing it as it is illegal for a business to vent propane to the environment (EPA regulations found in 40 CFR).

oldguyrich · 03-10-2016, 10:06 AM

I don't know.I got my info from the shop at Camping world. All said " Has to be pumped out, and an inert gas is pumped in, and a certified empty sticker affixed to the tank" The local propane outlet, actually all our local outlets won't do the work. Kinda stuck here...We are in New Port Richey, Florida- not a small town.

BrianGlenn · 03-10-2016, 12:30 PM

Try Heritage Propane up in Spring Hill. (352) 587-9788. Tell them you need to replace main valve on RV Motorhome tank. They may have the qualified technicians and provide that service - they will burn off all the propane in the tank. At the same time ask them what it would cost incrementally to re-certify your tank.

Hope this helps,
Brian

EDIT
Oh, check the handle on the main shutoff valve - if it is round the tank may not be re-certifiable; if it is triangular shaped it should not be a problem. I'm not 100% sure but some older tanks with the round valves/valve location on the tank were not able to be re-certified. Others may provide more accurate information.