Horizontal to vertical?

[kb0zke]

I've noticed that some of the 34' coaches shown in the Classifieds have horizontal propane tanks, while others have vertical tanks. I understand that the horizontal tanks use some of the space under the couch, so I'd rather have vertical tanks. I understand that it will cost $$$, but how much work is involved? Is this something that I can do, or must it be done by someone with specialized knowledge and tools?

[Skater]

You need new tanks - I don't think you can change the orientation of the tanks. Then you'd need to run new lines, and somehow mount a bracket on the A-frame to hold the tanks, probably just like vertical-tanked trailer would have. If you want an aluminum cover, be prepared - they are pretty expensive.

Then, you'd have to remove the old cover and enclose that portion of the trailer (I assume they are somewhat open underneath to let leaking propane out), then 'extend' the interior down to the new floor line. All so you'd have a little more room under the couch...

I'm not sure it'd be worth the effort. I think you'd be looking at a serious, expensive renovation project. If you were planning a full restoration at the same time, then I'd say do it, but I'm not sure it'd be worth tackling as a weekend project.

[dwightdi]

The horizontal tanks were an additional premium feature on the Limited model trailers. I would not change them as they add value to the trailer. If you do not like them, the non-Limited Trailers are usually cheaper. You may not get the two air conditioners available on the Limiteds.

[kb0zke]

"The horizontal tanks were an additional premium feature on the Limited model trailers." Do you mean that they were a part of the Limited package, or an additional option available only with the Limited package?

[dwightdi]

The horizontal tanks were standard on the Limited Edition model that year and were only on the Limited edition. The Excella had vertical tanks..

[kb0zke]

Thanks.

[ron barrow]

Does anyone have the wiring diagram for the horizontal tanks? I have them, there appears to be a red wire and a white wire as well as 2 grounds to fit on the 2 screw heads, What is the correct wiring?
Ron

[Skater]

On my trailer with vertical tanks, there are two wires, one for each tank, though I couldn't tell you the colors off the top of my head (and they may have changed anyway). Ground comes through the metal connection the tanks have to the frame of the trailer.

The red wire is probably for one tank, the white is for the other tank, and on my level monitor, it's not clearly marked which is which (it just says "Tank 1" and "Tank 2"), so it really doesn't matter. I'd hook up one, check the monitor, and see which one is showing the correct quantity, then decide whether the red wire should go to the left tank or the right tank.

This assumes you have the tanks with the gauge sensor built in. If not, your monitor won't work and you can just ignore the wiring.

[Protagonist]

Originally Posted by Skater

The red wire is probably for one tank, the white is for the other tank, and on my level monitor, it's not clearly marked which is which (it just says "Tank 1" and "Tank 2"), so it really doesn't matter. I'd hook up one, check the monitor, and see which one is showing the correct quantity, then decide whether the red wire should go to the left tank or the right tank.

And after you do, make some waterproof labels, numbered "1" and "2." Put the "1" label on the wire that leads to the "Tank 1" display, and the other on the wire leading to the "Tank 2" display. Then you'll never have to wonder which wire goes where, ever again.