Changing out propane regulator questions

[Jack L]

I am guessing my gas regulator needs to be changed out.
Taking it off and installing the new one requires removing and installing two threaded connections.
Questions:
1 Do I use tape, thread dope or nothing on the new screw threaded connections ?
2 Do I tighten the connections as hard as I can or just taut ?
Jack L.

 

[Kevin D Pem]

for gas use yellow tape. tight but you can strip a pipe thread. test for bubbles before use. never use flame to test for gas leaks.
if in doubt let someone that knows do the job.
If in doubt let someone in the know do the job.

 

[Jack L]

Many thanks.
I have always hated working with brass fittings just for that very reason

 

[TJ&LadyDi]

Tighten the brass fittings just to “snug” and test with soapy water. For thread sealant on gas lines, I prefer “pipe dope” like Oakley Pro Dope. It is a better sealant than Teflon tape, though that will work too.

TJ

 

[Gronk]

That thing about using tape is that small pieces can break off during installation that get blown downstream and possibly plug an orifice or make a valve leak. Pipe dope is my preferred method of sealing threads. Make sure you leak test with soapy water.

 

[Kevin D Pem]

That thing about using tape is that small pieces can break off during installation that get blown downstream and possibly plug an orifice or make a valve leak. Pipe dope is my preferred method of sealing threads. Make sure you leak test with soapy water.

That is why they make yellow tape.

 

[bherron1]

I've always used white tape just make sure its not past the end of the threads so it can not get inside, as said always check with bubbles dish soap and a little water mixed works well. Don't hurt to check for leaks after using a few times. Be gentle on brass and don't over tighten.

 

[Kevin D Pem]

I've always used white tape just make sure its not past the end of the threads so it can not get inside, as said always check with bubbles dish soap and a little water mixed works well. Don't hurt to check for leaks after using a few times. Be gentle on brass and don't over tighten.

The only difference between white and yellow is how thick the tape is. Why not use yellow for everything?

 

[malexander]

I'm a licensed plumber. I don't use tape on anything but an occasional air line/hose fitting. I use pipe dope on piping, it seals and lubricates the threads.

 

[Gronk]

I'm a licensed plumber. I don't use tape on anything but an occasional air line/hose fitting. I use pipe dope on piping, it seals and lubricates the threads.

Former licensed plumber too. Gave my license up when I retired. We were taught no tape on gas lines.

 

[Jack L]

I bought the regulator today. I'll install it when I get my courage up sometime within the next week, month or year !
Right now if that is my problem it is only letting me use a half a tank before I have to switch to the other tank.
I have always used the tape and half the time I screw up, so this time I'll use the thread dope.
Thanks to all
When it is done I'll report back
Jack L

 

[Jack L]

Reporting back on the propane regulator replacement.
All went well, thanks to my wife who acted as a vice holding the regulator while I uncrewed the connections.
I used the thread dope which from now on I'll use on brass, iron and other metal connections.
I checked all the connections with soapy water for leaks. Thankfully there were none.
Murphys law came into play when none of the mounting holes in the regulator matched up with the holes in the mounting bracket, but I worked that out.

Question: Is the plastic cover necessary for the regulator if the trailer will never be hauled on the roads ? My trailer is on our permanent snow bird site
I do have the large cover that goes over the tanks

Thanks again for all your comments and advice

Jack L

 

[Kevin D Pem]

Mostly protects the hoses. And looks good.

 

[Gronk]

No, the cover over the regulator isn't needed, but it does help keep it out of the weather. Since you have the big cover you should be OK then! Congrats on a successful repair!

 

[Jack L]

Thank you
I won't bother getting one -since it didn't come with the new regulator

Jack L