Airstream 390 - Manual (Page 47)

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PLUMBING
LPG SYSTEM
Your motorhome is equipped with a permanently mounted tank for LPG (Liquid Pe-
troleum Gas). LPG burns with a clean blue flame. There are two basic types of LPG
in common usage: Butane and Propane. Butane is widely used where temperatures
are normally above freezing the year round, and Propane is used where subfreezing
temperatures are common, since Butane freezes at 32°F as compared to -40°F for
Propane. ALL OF THE ORIFICES IN THE LPG APPLIANCES ARE OF THE UNIVERSAL
TYPE THAT WILL BURN EITHER FUEL. How long a full tank of gas will last is depen-
dent on usage. In cold weather, when you are using the furnace, large amounts of
hot water, and cooking extensively, you will naturally use more than you will in warm
weather, when you may do limited cooking. On the average, with normal cooking and
other appliance use, you can probably count on one month of usage from the tank.
If you have allowed the tank to run out, air may have gotten into the lines. In this event
the air must be forced out through the lines by gas pressure before you can light the
pilots. Hold a match to the pilot of the appliance closest to the tanks until it lights and
stays lit. Then move to the next closest, etc.
WARNING : All pilot lights and appliances must be turned off during
refueling of motorhome fuel tank and permanently mounted LPG tank. Gas lines
should be checked periodically for leaks with ammonia free soapy water. Do not
use open flame.
CAUTION : Moisture in the LPG tank will cause a malfunction of the regulator in
controlling proper pressure. This may result in the flame lifting off the burner, or the
flame may go out frequently. Many refueling stations will add approximately 1/4 to 1/2
gallon of alcohol to lower the moisture temperature. Moisture will then pass through
the regulator without the formation of ice crystals.
WARNING : If gas can be smelled, appliance pilots fail to stay on, or any
other abnormal situation occurs, shut off tank valve immediately and call on a
qualified LPG service center or Airstream Service Center.
LPG Regulator
The LPG regulators used on Airstream motorhomes are designed for low-pressure
service, with a normal outlet pressure setting of 11.5 water column. Only personnel
trained in the proper procedures, codes, standards, etc., should service regulators.
Have the regulator inspected each time the tank is refilled. Make sure the regulator
vent opening on both first and second stage regulators does not become plugged by
mud, insects, snow, ice, paint, etc. Vents must remain open.
Replace any regulator that has had water in the spring case, or shows evidence of
external corrosion, or corrosion inside the spring case. Closely examine regulators
directly connected to the container valve by means of a solid POL adapter (horizontal
mounting) for signs of corrosion. (An Airstream Service Center is recommended for
this service.)