Need LP tank cover for dual 40 LB

[twh731]

I just installed dual 40lb aluminum LP tanks and am looking for a cover. I purchased one of those vinyl fabric covers and immediately tore a large hole in it while pulling it over the tanks. I guess I don't know my own strength. Anyway, I am looking for a hard cover, either aluminum or some kind of durable poly material. I can find tons of 20 to 30 lb covers but nothing that says will fit 40 lb tanks. Can a 30 lb cover be modified to fit 40 lb tanks? Any ideas? I have read on this forum that Airstream makes aluminum covers but looks like they are quite expensive. Airstream Supply lists one for $699. Thanks for any ideas or help. Tom

[sgschwend]

If you are looking for a higher cover? You could obtain two covers and extend one to the new height by adding a section of the second cover.


Or perhaps ask a sheet metal shop to fold you a cover. That might save you a few bucks if you keep the design simple.

[kidjedi]

I'm in the same boat (two 40# tanks) and have resigned myself to the fact that I will need to build my own cover (likely out of left over belly pan aluminum -Im using thicker than what most people typically use). I am also keeping my eyes out for "things that might work if modified" at thrift and salvage places.

[polarlyse]

Previous owner of our '01 Excella upgraded the tanks from 30#'s to 40#s. Rather than spend the big $$$ for a new cover he just got a longer threaded rod and used the original cover. Yes, you see a few inches of tank exposed at the bottom but if you don't tell I won't. Works for me.

[RVforfun]

For those looking for a cover I believe that there is only one for sale discounted just around the corner from the waiting room at the factory. You might call the ladies at the reception desk and ask if it is still there.

[twh731]

Is it ok to not have a cover? We use a RockTamer on our hitch to keep gravel and other roadkill from hitting the front of the Safari. I could just lock the tank hold down handle to deter any nefarious ne'er-do-well from walking off with the tanks. Any thoughts about why a tank cover is necessary or helpful? Thanks. Tom

[banderabob]

Originally Posted by twh731

Is it ok to not have a cover? We use a RockTamer on our hitch to keep gravel and other roadkill from hitting the front of the Safari. I could just lock the tank hold down handle to deter any nefarious ne'er-do-well from walking off with the tanks. Any thoughts about why a tank cover is necessary or helpful? Thanks. Tom

Just my opinion of course, but for me the cover is an aesthetic issue. (With the lid, it also gives me a spot to store several small propane bottles for my grill!) I have seen numerous AS's without, but for some reason they all seem to be on vintage tin. And I've also seen uncovered, polished silver tanks that look awesome, again usually on vintage, so it appears to be OK to not have one.

[tbashin]

I bought a used 40 cover for $75 off Craigslist. It sits too close to the wind screen so I have to open the tank cover lid for the windscreen to be able to clear when I want to raise it.

[A W Warn]

I changed from 30 lb to 40 lb aluminum tanks on my Excella and continue to use the original cover. The threaded rod hold down had to be extended a couple inches (it was long enough). The bottom couple of inches of the tanks are exposed to view.

[75Bob]

I changed my 30's to 40's and had to change the threaded rod to reach the new aluminum cover which cost with tax and delivery $850. For a lot less I also replaced the plate they sit on, 2 extended propane hoses and a new switch over gauge/valve. I personally believe this is equivalent to replacing the gas hose on your stove at home when you install a new stove. Then I thought about 850 bucks for a beautiful aluminum cover that I can easily remove to get propane, sooo...I put a lock on it.

[kidjedi]

Originally Posted by twh731

Is it ok to not have a cover? We use a RockTamer on our hitch to keep gravel and other roadkill from hitting the front of the Safari. I could just lock the tank hold down handle to deter any nefarious ne'er-do-well from walking off with the tanks. Any thoughts about why a tank cover is necessary or helpful? Thanks. Tom

For me it's more about security. Propane tanks are often used in meth production (seriously). When I was towing my first AS home (Indiana to Colorado), I had a tank stolen off my rig in Missouri during the time it took me to go inside and talk to a man about a horse.


A propane cover isn't going to keep a determined thief from taking your tanks, but it can delay them, and sometimes that's enough to prevent losing a tank or two. The cover also serves to "hide" the tanks from enterprising meth heads; I know it doesn't seem like it would work, but consider the person from whom you are "hiding" the tanks.



If the cable/chain and lock is secure, it's probably enough, but the combo of aesthetics and security are the reason I use a cover.

[Jetboy10199]

I have an airstream propane tank cover brand new. 450 plus shipping.