Plumbing Propane For Generator(s) and a Grill

[AIRHEDS]

Hi all. We're ever so patiently awaiting our new Classic and I've been thinking about how to go about plumbing propane to meet some anticipated needs. First, the generators (likely a pair of EU2000's, but possibly 3000's). I will put the US Carb Tri-Fuel kits on both generators for the most flexibility at home too. I'm thinking I'd need a quick-connect tap installed on the back-street-side of the trailer, then come off of that with a 20' hose with a valved "T" connector and short small pigtails.

I'd also like a valved quick-connect tap installed, either on the porch side of the trailer or near the tanks, where I can run a line to a camp stove or a BBQ grill (a 16oz tank fitting).

I've been searching quite a bit but can't seem to find enough info to plan this and I don't know enough about the pressure regulators I'd need (size/flow). Any thoughts/ideas? Has anyone else done anything like this and have pics/advice to share?

Thanks much!
Rich and Kat

[AWCHIEF]

I thought the new Airstreams already came with a propane ext. connection.

[HowieE]

If you are going to want to operate a grill also off this line you want to tap into the low pressure side of your trailer regulator. Once tapped into the low pressure side you can run gas piping anywhere you want and put quick disconnects at the ends. I would suggest a gas shut off valve at the point where you tap off the low pressure side. This is just an extra precaution for a possible small leak at the disconnects. I have several quick disconnects at home on mt gas system, for grill and generator, that have not leaked in 30 years but on the road you might pick up some dirt that would cause a problem.

[NoResults]

Your best bet is after you get your trailer take it to a propane dealer they have all the parts and pieces and most will do what you need. They will make custom length hoses etc. Dave

[PecanMan5]

I have had 2, and both came with hookups installed.

[SMLJeep]

Your Airstream will come with a low pressure side quick-connect on the front street side next to the battery box under the frame. To safely run permanent lines to any other point on the trailer you would be best to use a combination of copper for long runs where there is no flexing and heavy walled hose in those areas where there would be any possibility of flexing when towing. The copper used for this is soft copper and the fitting will be the flared type. To install this type of copper fitting requires a small tubbing cutter tool to cut the copper and flare tool to prep the end. All of the things needed to install the extra lines you need is available at most large hardware store or on line. The MOST IMPORTANT THING is testing all the lines for LEAKS. This can be done with a soapy and water mix that will bobble if the propane is leaking at any fitting. If you are not comfortable doing this type of work I would strongly suggest you have it done by a propane dealer as suggested by NoResults.

[AIRHEDS]

Thanks all. I'm comfortable doing the work ... Just need to figure out what parts are needed to actually do it. I also didn't know there were propane shops. Great to know. Thanks again!

[merchantmm]

Double check your trailer. My 2015 FC had a line originally installed already for this purpose.

[HowieE]

Any propane dealer that also sell gas drills will most likely have piping and fittings you need.

[Zybane]

Rich I solved the propane grill issue.

I upgraded to charcoal.

[AIRHEDS]

Thanks James. We've been considering charcoal but definitely want an outdoor stove for sure. I read somewhere else about folks having problems with the two inline low-pressure regulators ... I haven't read the solution yet, but assume it's as simple as removing one of the regulators.

I didn't know the trailer came with 2 exterior taps (which I presume both are 1/4" low pressure ... ?)

Thanks,
Rich

[BAB]

My trailer has only 1. I have three different hoses rigged for it. One going to my Weber Q grill, one for my US Carb Tri-Fuel kit on my Honda EU3000iHandi, one for my "fake" fireplace with "fake" flames and "fake" logs when I'm in a park that won't allow fires and the grandkids want s'mores.

[GammaDog]

There quite a few threads here on how people use the low pressure ports that come on modern Airstreams or that have been added to older models.

On our 2014 model the port is forward on the road side of the battery box. I run a gas grill off that or one or two Honda 2000s using a standard Camco 10' flexible quick disconnect hose and a 1/4" quick disconnect tee which I fabricated from standard brass plumbing parts. Note that there is a maximum rating of 25,000 BTUs for the appliances run of that port. While we don't often think of it, generators can be rated in BTUs. Two Honda 2000s exceed that rating. In fact a single unit probably exceeds that at full throttle.

That said, I have run mine under a range of conditions with no issues and no measurable disturbance in voltage at the 120 volt outlets in the trailer. Propane businesses are well schooled in how to size piping to assure proper flow. I suspect many RV shops are too.