Old style propane tank

[nordicstallion]

Hi kids,Newbe here. Ive just pulled my 89 fleet out of long term hybernation.It has been stored inside for about 8 years i think. Every thing is in great shape & working good.I have concerns about the old style propane tank connections.Im assuming I cant get the old style tank refilled.Is this tank built special to be used lying on its side & can I lay a new tank from Wallyworld on its side or do I need to get a special tank? Vern

 

[MarkBC]

I'm pretty sure that horizontal is internally plumbed (the dip tube) differently than vertical.
According to this link:

Both horizontally and vertically mounted portable tanks are available, although the horizontal tank is much less common. The horizontal and vertical tanks are not interchangeable, and must be stored, filled, and used only in the specified horizontal or vertical mounting position.
This (must be ... filled in the specified horizontal...mounting position) brings up a question I've always wondered:
When I have my tank filled they always fill it vertically...and it always takes less propane than I expect. Is this because they should be filling it horizontally? That makes sense to me, but -- silly me -- I assumed that "professionals" know what they're doing.

On the other hand, I've never had it filled by an actual propane dealer/distributor, and maybe the guys at the gas station aren't propane professionals (i.e., they're not Hank Hill, if you know what I mean

).

 

[Barko1]

I just had my empty tank filled and it took 4.3 gallons which seems to be as full as it could get as you need room in there for expansion right? Mine is the "old" type. Just needs to get re-certified/inspected every 5 years.

 

[MarkBC]

I just had my empty tank filled and it took 4.3 gallons which seems to be as full as it could get as you need room in there for expansion right? Mine is the "old" type. Just needs to get re-certified/inspected every 5 years.

Is yours a horizontal or a vertical tank? And in what orientation do you have it when filling?
Mine has never taken more than 3.5 gallons...so that's why I'm wondering...

 

[Barko1]

Is yours a horizontal or a vertical tank? And in what orientation do you have it when filling?
Mine has never taken more than 3.5 gallons...so that's why I'm wondering...


It is a horizontal. I think t was vertical when filled. That was the 1st time I ever ran it empty. Empty meaning the Wave 3 went out about 11 pm and I had to use my portable stove for morning coffee. Happy I have a nice warm bag

 

[nordicstallion]

Thank you gents,now im on track. vern