Mandalay 38A 2004, Owner'S Manual

Page: 81 / 94

LP GAS REGULATOR
The regulator reduces the pressure of the LP gas vapor from the pressure in the tank, to the pressure required
for use at the appliances. This reduction in pressure is performed by a two-stage regulator. Two regulators are
used in the same body to reduce the pressure of the LP gas in the tank for use by the appliances in the
recreational vehicle. The regulator seldom requires service, but it should always be protected from the
elements and extremes of hot and cold.
The high pressure regulator (first stage) is used to reduce the pressure to approximately 10 to 13 PSI before
sending it along to the low pressure regulator (second stage). This second stage regulator reduces the
pressure further to 11 inches water column, or 6.35 ounces per square inch.
The two stages regulator does not have to work as hard since the second stage receives consistent pressure
rather than inlet pressure which varies. The result is an efficient safer system that helps to eliminate problems
such as freeze up and pilot outages.
The regulator has been preset by the manufacturer of the regulator, and adjustment should not be necessary.
If adjustment should be required however, DO NOT attempt to adjust it yourself. Adjustment must be made
with special equipment by a qualified LP gas service technician.
Have the regulator checked annually, or whenever you suspect a problem. The correct line pressure should be
6 ¼ oz. or 11 inches of water column.
Because air is required for proper operation of the regulator, it is very important that the regulator vent is kept
clean and free of dirt and debris. This is why it is necessary to keep the vent facing downward and the regulator
covered to protect if from contamination. A toothbrush can be used to clean the vent if it becomes clogged by
foreign matter.
During cold weather, it is important to keep ice from forming in the regulator, which will shut off the flow to LP
gas to your appliances. Have the supplier add a hydrous Methanol when filling your tank for use during cold
weather.
Regulator freeze-up can occur in any weather if there is moisture in the tank, or if the tank has been overfilled.
Always use moisture-free LP gas, and make sure the tank has not been filled beyond 80% of capacity. If
moisture has entered the tank, have the tank purged, or have hydrous methanol added by an authorized LP
supplier.
If you believe a regulator has been damaged or otherwise is not functioning, have it replaced by a competent
serviceman.
WARNING: Never alter the positioning of the regulator. LP gas regulators must always be
installed with the diaphragm vent facing downward. Also make sure to keep the regulator
cover in place to minimize vent blockage which could result in excessive gas pressure
causing fire or explosion. Do not rely upon being able to smell LP gas leaks, as the odor
may not be sufficiently strong to detect.
Mandalay 11-3
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