Need for a Dual Diaphram LP Regulator

[JimGolden]

Hi Gang,

My trailer is a 1987 model. I have dual 40lb Worthington aluminum LP bottles. The regulator is a manual switch over 1987 vintage single diaphram model. It works fine. I've had no leaks, issues, or problems of any kind.

A buddy of mine has a newer trailer (like a 2009 or so). I forget the brand, but it's one of those small tear drop looking campers. Anyway, he has a dual diaphram LP regulator that was leaking. It flooded his camper with LP gas. He smelled it, got his wife out of there, and promptly called the manufacturer!

Anyway, he finally tracked down the maker of the regulator (I forget the name, but it's Italian sounding and they apparently make 2/3 of all RV LP regulators). No less than the President of the company called him. Turned out the model he had had been recalled and there weren't supposed to be any of them on the market. They overnighted a new one to him for free and demanded the old one be returned.

At any rate, he was telling me the horrors of the single diaphram type LP regulator, and that I should get rid of my 1987 relic and get a new dual diaphram model. That they are much safer.

What do you guys think? My single diaphram model works fine. I've had no issues at all. Is it truly a bomb waiting to blow? Or is my friend over reacting? I guess all the new RV's have the dual diaphram type regulator.

Anyway, I just want to be safe. I'm an engineer, and I personally don't see the need for alarm. But, I've not heard of that many RV's blowing up because they used a single diaphram style LP regulator. I could be totally wrong. Please advise.

Thanks,

Jim

[ventport]

If the regulator is mounted by the tanks, outside the trailer like it should be, I do not see how it could fill the trailer with gas. LP is heavier then air and would sink to the ground level and be blown away by any wind. Worst case you loose your LP due to a leak.

[JimGolden]

My setup is the conventional one with the tanks out on the tongue.

But on his tear drop thing, I think they are actually inside the shell, like a fifth wheel, in some kind of little compartment.

I just want to be safe. LP is one of those things you don't mess around with...

[overlander63]

Jim, in this case I'd say if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Check yours for leaks, and only replace it if it starts not working right, or begins to leak.

[ROBERT CROSS]

^
X2

Just as important...check the flexible lines for deterioration.

Bob

[wahoonc]

Originally Posted by overlander63

Jim, in this case I'd say if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Check yours for leaks, and only replace it if it starts not working right, or begins to leak.

Agree!

There is more to his story than just the regulator. To me it sounds almost like his tanks were installed incorrectly. LP compartments are supposed to be vented to the outside only. Also all the regulator does is reduce the flow of gas down to a pressure that the appliances can use. Everything I own including house appliances the main regulator is outside, or vented to the outside.

Aaron