Transporting 20lb. Propane Tank

[Glenn]

I’m hoping to get some advice from those of you who regularly transport propane with your campers.

With my build being a little different than most I’m wondering how safe it is to transport a 20 lb. bottle in a milk crate in my trucks bed/topper, secured on top of the bed platform now that I have added the electronics in the lower part of the side cabinet. And also since the Victron 12/12/30 will be charging the house battery while driving.

I deal with fuel gas cylinders regularly for welding and cutting and on propane powered tow motors (fork trucks) so I’m not overly concerned. If the 20 lb. tank is disconnected, the valve closed securely and I bubble test the valve stem is there any issues transporting it in the sealed bed of the truck?

Even if I leave the side windows on the topper open the propane is heavier than air. I have sealed most of the tailgate to prevent road dust from coming in but there are some small air gaps.

If I was pulling my boat/trailer or a trailer with my 4 wheeler I would simply haul the propane bottle in one of the open trailers.

I might have another option, but will wait for advice from the collective group before making more work for myself.

Thanks - Glenn

 

[Sagebrush Reconnoiterer]

In short, my only concern is in a major frontal collision, that of the weight of a tank with propane flying forward and possibly into the cab if its trajectory is through the cab's back window. The crate does help contain the tank during normal driving. And propane tanks are overall quite safe and can handle harsh handling and conditions. But that's a lot of weight if it hits your head or shoulders at speed.

Otherwise I've only carried tanks in the back of my truck and SUV to be filled. The only camper I owned was a used, standard cab over unit that I used once decades ago and quickly got rid of. When fueling my cylinders I simply run a ratcheting tie down strap through the tank's valve surround hand openings to keep them from rolling in case I have an accident or have to hit the brakes. I no longer own a pickup truck, but do carry my cylinders in the back of my 4Runner. If I'm only filling one, I use my plastic milk crate to contain and stabilize it; and since the back seat is generally upright that more or less contains it in the case of an accident.

I've also driven propane powered equipment and I run my large capacity generator with a 100# propane cylinder during power outages to energize my entire house and well. That tank I use my open utility trailer with the tank standing upright due to it being very heavy when filled and easier to handle.

 

[Glenn]

Yes, it would be secured.

i have two of the 100 pound tanks at home……one for my cutting torch fuel, and one for my portable shop heater.

(I bought a spare 500 gal. LP tank to hook up to my pole barn (hopefully next year) for my radiant floor heat in the concrete floor pad.

Tonight I will be measuring under the F350 to see if I have room to build an expanded metal cage with hinged door to mount to the frame…..with the bottle upright.

 

[Glenn]

No room inside the frame, and while there is just enough space -too vulnerable outside the frame in case of a collision.

After reading many different sites, a milk crate on the rear floor board of the crew cab (with passenger seat forward) makes the most sense. That seems to be the most protected area, also I’m a non smoker.

That location was actually recommended by a HAZMAT site for safe handling of a LPG bottle for transport by a vehicle when camping, with removal immediately upon arriving to the destination.