Blue Bird M380 2003, Owner'S Manual

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4-14 – Interior and Exterior Systems Operation - LPG System______________________________M380 Owner’s Manual
4-14-2 Rev. “F”
4-14.2.1 Regulator
The two-stage pressure regulator regulates the pressure of the LPG supplied to the appliances. The
regulator functions automatically and is factory-preset to provide the correct line pressure. Do not
attempt to tamper with or reset the regulator! Even a small variation above the normal gas line
pressure can be sufficient to create a dangerous situation and cause possible damage to individual
appliance components. If there is any doubt about the regulator setting, it can be checked by your
Wanderlodge dealer or LPG supplier. The correct setting is 11-14 inch water column.
4-14.2.2 Operation
To operate any LPG appliance, the main gas (Service) valve must be open. In addition, individual
valves at each appliance must be opened prior to use. When first used, or after a refill, there may be
some air in the gas lines, which escapes, when you open a range burner or similar LP gas valve. The
air may extinguish your match or igniter the first time or two before you get ignition. Remember, too,
that when you close the tank’s service valve some of the gas will remain in the lines. To completely
bleed the lines of gas, close the tank’s service valve and light a range burner to use up the excess.
When the flame burns out, turn the range burner off.
4-14.3 Checking for Leaks
Periodically check the LP system for possible leakage. Do not wait for an alarm condition to occur
before correcting a leak! Although the entire system and associated appliances undergo extensive
factory testing for leakage, road shocks and heavy vibrations may loosen or damage piping or fittings.
Leaks will usually become noticeable by the characteristic odor of the garlic-scented gas additive. To
check, turn off all burners and pilot lights. Open all doors and windows. Open LPG tank service valve
and use an ammonia and chlorine free soap-bubble solution on all connections. Any bubbles are
evidence of leakage.
NOTE: The gas leakage detectors may momentarily sound an alarm when the engine is
initially started or when a heavy electrical load is placed on the system. Further, the ultra
sensitive response of these units may also cause an alarm to be given in the presence of
certain pressurized-can sprays or cleaning agents. Do not assume! Always determine the
reason for this vital alarm being given!
4-14.4 LPG Consumption
Most gas appliances are intermittently operated; however, operation during cold weather conditions
does cause heavy consumption. The amount of LPG consumption depends on the total use and the
manner in which these appliances are used.
Note that each gallon (4 1/4 lb.) of LPG fuel produces approximately 91,500 BTUs of heat energy.
The LPG tank used in your motor home will furnish over 2.1 million BTUs.
For your guidance in estimating your anticipated fuel consumption, the following is a listing of typical
appliance consumption ratings when the appliance is operated for one hour:
Refrigerator:
1,500 BTUs
Cooktop Burners 5,200 BTUs each