Propane/Pilot Light Question

[Frank & Jean]

Hi,
I need help getting the Hot Water Heater, Inside Stove and Fridge lit. They are all on one side of the pop up and I'm assuming are fed by the same lp gas line. I can't get the pilot lights to stay on. They'll spark but won't stay on. It seems that for whatever reason the propane isn't getting to the appliances. The outside stove works great so that's getting propane to it. I know my tank has propane in it. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Frank

[Dray]

Is your PU new or old?  Was it working before?

[AustinBoston]

Hi,
I need help getting the Hot Water Heater, Inside Stove and Fridge lit. They are all on one side of the pop up and I'm assuming are fed by the same lp gas line. I can't get the pilot lights to stay on. They'll spark but won't stay on. It seems that for whatever reason the propane isn't getting to the appliances. The outside stove works great so that's getting propane to it. I know my tank has propane in it. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Frank

If you have one device that works, then the problem is not with the tank or valve.

Do you have a Coleman with a "high pressure" line for the outside stove, and a "low pressure" line for everything else?  If so, the problem could be:

1 - a defective or misadjusted low pressure regulator.
2 - a clog in the low pressure line.
3 - shoot, can't think of the third one.  Someone else will, though.

If you don't have a "high pressure" outside stove (i.e. you can use the same stove in or out), that rules out #1 above.

Austin

[Frank & Jean]

Is your PU new or old?  Was it working before?

It's a 2000 Coleman Westlake

[Frank & Jean]

If you have one device that works, then the problem is not with the tank or valve.

Do you have a Coleman with a "high pressure" line for the outside stove, and a "low pressure" line for everything else?  If so, the problem could be:

1 - a defective or misadjusted low pressure regulator.
2 - a clog in the low pressure line.
3 - shoot, can't think of the third one.  Someone else will, though.

If you don't have a "high pressure" outside stove (i.e. you can use the same stove in or out), that rules out #1 above.

Austin

It is a low pressure stove inside and the hot water heater, and furnace are on the same line (at least I think so) so your answer makes sense. How do I check for a clog myself or do I have to have it looked at?

[wavery]

It is a low pressure stove inside and the hot water heater, and furnace are on the same line (at least I think so) so your answer makes sense. How do I check for a clog myself or do I have to have it looked at?

It's not likely to be a clog. It is far more likely to be the regulator.

If you can turn a wrench, you can replace the regulator yourself for around $25.
http://www.pplmotorhomes.com/parts/lp-gas/lp-gas-regulator.htm

It may cost far more than that (not including the hassle of hooking-up and towing it somewhere) to have someone check it out and probably end up replacing it for you.

[AustinBoston]

It is a low pressure stove inside and the hot water heater, and furnace are on the same line (at least I think so) so your answer makes sense. How do I check for a clog myself or do I have to have it looked at?

I'm a little confused.  We all have low pressure inside stoves.  The real question is, do you have a high pressure outside stove?  If yes, then Wayne is 100% correct, replace the low pressure regulator before doing anything else.

If you do not have a separate high-pressure outside stove, then you probably have a clog.

Austin

[Frank & Jean]

Sorry, My bad, The OUTSIDE stove IS High pressure so looks like I'll try the regulator. At least it's a place to start. Thanks
Frank

[AustinBoston]

Sorry, My bad, The OUTSIDE stove IS High pressure so looks like I'll try the regulator. At least it's a place to start. Thanks
Frank

There are two regulators.  You only want to replace the low-pressure regulator.  Find it by following the hose from the tank into the first regulator, then into a T-connector, then into the low-pressure regulator.

Be sure to use a sealant that is safe with propane on the threads, and to check all connections with a solution of soapy water for leaks.

Austin

[austinado16]

Might be worth building a Manometer and checking your propane pressure on that low side.  If you scroll down into the second or third page here, you'll find my thread on how to build one, with pictures.  Easy, fast and cheap. Then you can do your own diagnostics and if your regulator is adjustable, adjust it accordingly.

[Frank & Jean]

Just Curious...
How do you adjust the regulator if it is adjustable?

[AustinBoston]

Just Curious...
How do you adjust the regulator if it is adjustable?

1) Obtain a gas pressure meter, or build one of austinado16's Manometers.  Homemade ones are as acurate as is needed, as long as you measure with a good ruler.

2) Connect the Manometer to a gas outlet and turn that appliance on.  Note that this connection has to be relatively airtight, and has to be before any kind of orifice.

3) Remove the cover from the regulator and adjust the screw inside until the Manometer shows the correct pressure is obtained.  Put the cover back on.

Austin