Monaco DIPLOMAT 2004, Owner'S Manual

Page: 286 / 446

DIPLOMAT 2004
7 • 286
LP-GAS SYSTEM
Liquid Propane gas is one of the safest and most reliable fuels available
on the market if it is handled properly. LP-Gas, however, does have a great
explosive “potential" if handled improperly. Danger is minimized by becom-
ing familiar with and following a few safety precautions, and by learning
how to properly operate LP-Gas appliances. Use of LP-Gas requires the
responsibility to enforce extra safety measures.
The motorhome is equipped with many LP-Gas operated appliances
because it is a convenient and efficient source of fuel. LP-Gas appliances
must be operated and maintained in accordance with the product manufactur-
er’s instructions.
The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) has a special service pro-
gram offered called GAS
®
(Gas Appliance System) Check. The GAS
®
Check
program is aimed at educating the users in the association about the conven-
ience of propane use with safety and peace of mind. For information on the
NPGA Gas
®
Check program, call (630) 515-0600 or visit www.npga.org.
LP-Gas Tanks and Cylinders:
Tanks are built to American Society of Mechanical Engineers (AMSE)
Code. The cylinders are built to DOT (Department of Transportation) Code.
The major difference between cylinders and tanks is in required testing
and inspection procedures and in the construction of the containers. Both
tanks and cylinders are required to undergo pressure testing and inspections;
however, the procedures for how they are tested and inspected differ.
The difference between the two codes are that the valves, fittings and
brackets are located only on the ends of the DOT cylinders; however, on the
ASME tanks they may be located on ends, as well as the sides. There is also
a difference in how the tanks are rated. Required tank ratings are in gallons
(ASME ratings) or pounds (DOT) water capacity. The Federal DOT
(Department of Transportation) regulations require periodic inspections and re-
qualifications of cylinders.
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (AMSE) tanks or bulk con-
tainers are generally used in the motorhomes and motorized products. These
tanks are permanently mounted on to the unit.
An alloy steel two-piece welded and brazed tank is used on all tow-
able products. The marking on the collar, DOT 4BA240, identifies the DOT
specifications and service pressure. Other pertinent information included on
the collar is the water capacity (WC) and the tare weight (TW), both which
are measured in pounds, and the Manufacture date (one of the most impor-
tant items). There is a required 12 year re-qualification. The final piece of
information is for the Dip Tube (DT) length. This is part of the overfill pro-
tection and maximum liquid allowance in the cylinder.
LP - GAS
SAFETY TIPS