Original tanks versus new

[ehodg66]

I have the 2 original LP tanks for my 72 Tradewind. They look to be in good shape but I have not had them checked b/c I am still in the early stages of my frame-off Restoration. Is there any reason to upgrade besides the obvious reason (original tanks no usable)?
The main reason for my question is I would like to move the tanks slightly forward when doing my frame repairs, so I can add a battery box between the tanks and shell. I have not done any research on newer tanks but some of the pics I've seen on the forum, they seem to be a larger diameter. If that's the case, I may not be able to shift the tanks froward.

thank you

[idroba]

Are your tanks steel or aluminum? Do they have the newer OPD valves on them? The new valves have a triangular handle, the old ones were round.

If they are the aluminum tanks, and need new valves, have it done. About $40 to $50 each at a propane dealer. They will also re certify them. New aluminum tanks are over $200 each so this is the way to go. Aluminum tanks are always nice to have.

If they are steel tanks I would just go ahead and buy new ones if they don't have the current OPD valves. The cost of the valve changeout approaches the cost of a new tank with the new valve. I think I paid about $60 for the last 30# tanks I bought. Then you have nice new fully certified tanks.

Both steel and aluminum tanks are the same diameter. The Aluminum ones are about 3 inches taller as I recall. You should be able to move them forward, like the new Airstreams have done to accommodate the battery box.

[davepankras]

I had the tanks on my 1957 Overlander moved up to accomodate a battery box for two 6 volt batteries. I'm now going to install a power jack because the crank type will bang against the tanks. I can e-mail photos of the new setup if you like.

Dave

[ehodg66]

Thanks Idroba,

Yes they are steel tanks. They measure roughly 12"x24". Here are a few pics

[BIGED52]

Looks like you would need to scrap those 30# tanks and just buy 2 new ones. You can usually find them at Menards/ Lowes or Home Depot for a better price than an RV shop and the added benefit of new OPD valves and a current certification. Moving them forward is not a real issue. You may want to consider an electric jack to replace the hand operated one! Ed

[davepankras]

Here's the tank setup on mine.

[idroba]

Now with the photo of the original steel tanks, I would recommend you simply replace them with a new pair. They need the new OPD valves and re certification, so new ones will be your best bet, easiest and probably only slightly more than re doing the old ones.

[TomW]

I am running the original steel tanks that came with my Overlander for nothing more than the cool factor.

You can read more about the effort in this thread:

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f287...new-83560.html

Tom

[xrvr]

You can get a manual crank that will not hit the tanks, it cranks only on the front, not the top. Jim

[Jammer]

You might want to consider upgrading to aluminum tanks with a float gauge. Much lighter and the gauge is a big help.

[ehodg66]

Thanks everyone,
Sounds like new tanks is the way to go. A 30lb tank at home depot is 62.47 (after a quick look on their website)

I actually do have an electric jack. It's old but still works. I do need to get the manual handle for it though. Wasn't with the trailer when I bought it.

thank you again

[Jewel65]

If you get lucky (I did) you can find used aluminum tanks out there for sale. I snagged a couple on Craigslist for $40 for both tanks. They have the old valves, and I will need to change those, but for the price it is worth the money. Even if you get steel ones for now, you can keep an eye out for some in the future.

[ehodg66]

@Jewel65
I just found a 30# aluminum on craigslist for $65.. Seems a little high but may be able to bargain a bit