LP Tank Gauge Question

Joesplace · 08-01-2014, 07:55 PM

Had both LP tanks filled today and each tank gauge reads correctly when standing vertical. When tanks are set horizontal and installed, each gauge reads about half full.

Is this how the tank gauge works, you need to remove each tank and stand it up to get the correct reading or does mine need to be replaced?

Joesplace · 08-02-2014, 05:44 AM

I found the answer here:
http://www.trailmanorowners.com/foru...ead.php?t=4943

**Bill** · 08-02-2014, 07:14 AM

I think you may find another good answer in post #22 here

http://www.trailmanorowners.com/foru...ad.php?t=13342

or in post #19, with a good photo, here

http://www.trailmanorowners.com/foru...ead.php?t=9521

Bill

**dab1950** · 08-17-2014, 05:48 PM

I have reviewed all the threads in this forum pertaining to the LP tanks and the gauges. I acknowledge that the consensus of owners of horizontal LP tanks, is "the gauges aren't very accurate".
Nevertheless, my gauges have gone missing!? I know I saw them on the tanks at the dealership before we decided to buy. The day we picked up the TM, I'm confident the left tank had a gauge but the right one didn't. I assumed the dealer swapped the tank with a full one to be sure we were
"camp ready" when we pulled away. However, after getting the TM home and checking things closer the next day, the gauge from the left tank is gone too. Question # 1; Is it that easy for the gauge(s) to fall off without affecting tank function?
Question # 2: Although, I do intend to shop for and buy the 'tape' mentioned on here, today I bought the 'inline style gauge'
Propane Tank Gauge

Is there anything really wrong with this 'inline style gauge'?

Using this new inline gauge, both tanks are full(minimal use so far).

Thanks everyone!

**Bill** · 08-17-2014, 07:15 PM

Those gauges are worthless. They don't tell you how much propane is in the tank, for the simple reason that they can't. All they measure is the pressure in the tank, and the pressure is constant, from full tank to very-nearly empty tank. Take a look at this thread (there are others on the topic).

http://www.trailmanorowners.com/foru...ead.php?t=8173

Bill

**dab1950** · 08-17-2014, 08:36 PM

Thanks Bill.
So the inline gauge only cost me $10 on sale. No major loss. But I'm still curious
about the original gauges that were on the tanks. Where did they go? How do they
work?
I will look for the magnetic tape as a true level gauge.

Doug

**Bailey'sMom** · 08-18-2014, 07:55 AM

[QUOTE= Question # 1; Is it that easy for the gauge(s) to fall off without affecting tank ![/QUOTE]

Yep it is. Mine fell off in my driveway as I was preparing for this camping trip. Fell right to the hard concrete driveway, luckily while I was there to see and hear it.

The little plastic tabs broke off, I imagine from age and sun.