Monaco Executive 2005, Owner'S Manual

Page: 319 / 538

LP-Gas Systems --- Section 7
The Executive 2005
319
LP-GAS SAFETY TIPS
Liquid Propane gas is one of the safest and most reliable fuels available on the market when han-
dled properly. LP-Gas, however, does have a great explosive “potential" if handled improperly. Danger
is minimized by becoming 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 safe-
ty 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 manufacturer’s instructions.
The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) has a special service program offered called GAS
®
(Gas Appliance System) Check. The GAS ® Check program is aimed at educating users about the conven-
ience of propane 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 construction of the containers. Both tanks and
cylinders are required to undergo pressure testing and inspection; 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) reg-
ulations require periodic inspections and re-qualifications of cylinders.
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (AMSE) tanks or bulk containers are generally used in
motorhomes, and are permanently mounted on to the unit.
An alloy steel two-piece welded and brazed tank is used on all towable products. The marking on the
collar, DOT 4BA240, identifies the DOT specifications and service pressure. Other pertinent informa-
tion included on the collar is the water capacity (WC) and the tare weight (TW), both which are meas-
ured in pounds, and the manufacture date (one of the most important items). There is a required 12 year
re-qualification. The final piece of information is Dip Tube (DT) length. This is part of the overfill pro-
tection and maximum liquid allowance in the cylinder.