Gas doesn't flow

[dthurk]

On the spare tank on my trailer, someone opened the valve and it was open all winter.  I was sure I had an empty tank, but much to my surprise the tank was still full.

Was the tank hooked up to anything?  Would think that it would have to vent gas if it wasn't hooked up to something.  If you have a dual regulator, do you have auto or manual changeover?

[Ted]

Several months ago I posted a problem about my gas not flowing unexpectedly after it had performed with no problem for two camping trips.  I got several pieces of great advice.  I wanted to reply.
 
I banged on the regulator, no change. I then disconnected the regulator from the line that goes into the PUP.  No change.  Then I disconnected the regulator from the line coming from the tank, no change.  Then I took the line off of the tank and blew through it, viola!  There was air going through that short line.
 
Gas was not leaving the tank.  Tried a second tank, still no flow. Both tanks were full, in case you were wondering!   Took the hose to a local LP gas dealer, and he screwed the hose into one of his tanks, and there was gas flow!  I was mystified.  So was he.
 
On a lark (being desperate!)  I replaced the hand wheel connector, and now the PUP once again has gas.  I am clueless why my original hand connector didn't work on my tanks (had worked on the tank that came with the PUP, but I had swapped it out) but worked on the dealer's tank, and the new connector worked on both of my swapped out tanks.  Seems a bit of LP voodoo, but I am not complaining.  For $7.00, some web surfing, and advice from this great group, the problem is fixed.  I am not mechanically inclined.  I would have never thought about systematically working backwards until finding that the stoppage was at the point of the tank itself.
 
Thanks to all of you for your suggestions.  I learned a bit in the process.  Anyone have any insights into what seems to me as a strange event?
 
Ted

[madcritter]

Here is one for you guys. 1998 Coleman westlake has Subruban 6 gal LP water heater. All other gas items work on the camper. I have gas to the water heater. but will not light or get gas to the pilot. I don't know that much about the control pannel where the  pilot switch is. Followed their lighting direction about 10 times no luck.

[madcritter]

PS
it's all most hunting season and I want to get to Uwharrie National Forrest. So any suggestions. Thinking of pulling the heater so I can get a good flushing and then take it to the local LP guys to have them check the control unit.

[popupcop]

Mad,
You may need to replace the thermocouple but usually the pilot will stay lit as long as you hold down the button if this is the case. Thermocouples are available at most hardware and plumbing stores.