HOWTO: Propane System
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© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Propane Level Gauge Sender
The propane tank has a level indicator with a remote sender to the Monitor Panel. The black wire you see of this gauge
connects to the monitor panel, and allows you to check your propane level while inside the Roadtrek.
Both the three-light system on the monitor panel and the gauge on the tank will give you a rough idea of your propane level;
you will get a more accurate indication when you fill up. Note the amount it takes to fill your tank. The 16 gallon tank in your
Roadtrek will hold 12.8 gallons / 48 liters when completely empty and filled to the correct 80% full level. Subtract the amount
you buy from this number, and you'll know how much was in the tank when you filled it. You may find that the gauge will read
one light when you still have a considerable reserve, or you may find that empty means empty, and you'd be wise to refill as
soon as it goes down to one light. It depends on the characteristics of your individual propane system.
Slam shut valve
The propane system is equipped with a slam-shut valve. If this valve detects a sudden increase in flow (as if from a ruptured
line) or a shock (as if from an accident) the valve will shut down the propane system. If you detect no propane flow, and you
have checked that you have propane in the tank, shut off all appliances, shut off the main valve, and wait 10 minutes.
Slowly turn on the propane, turning the main valve 1/4 turn a minute until the valve is open. Check for propane smell as you
turn on the valve.
Once the valve is open, turn on the stove and try to light it. If air entered the line, it may take a short time to purge the air
out of the line.
If you still have no propane at the stove, and you detect no propane smell, have a qualified technician check the system.
About Propane
Propane fuel is colourless, heavier than air and smells like garlic or rotten eggs. The odor is added by the distributor so
propane may smell differently as you travel and purchase propane from various distributors. Being heavier than air it will
collect in low spots and along the floor of your vehicle.
If you smell propane or your propane detector sounds, immediately get all occupants out of the vehicle and turn the manual
shutoff valve off. Wait for the propane to dissipate. Once the smell is gone, take the vehicle to a qualified repair facility to find
and fix the problem before using the propane system again. If closing the manual shutoff valve does not stop the propane
leak and you still smell propane, do not attempt to start, drive, occupy or otherwise use the vehicle in the presence of a
