A25 Propane Locker Location ???

[ianmac]

In the process of planning a propane locker installation on an A25. Would like to find a place that is safe, not too intrusive, and not located on the swim grid or cabin top. Wouldn't need to carry a very big tank and would be willing to use icebox cavity if I had to. Those of you who carry propane, where do you put it ??? Any info on location and design would be MUCH appreciated.

Thank you

Ian MacDonald

[Tim Orr]

I'm in the process of building a propane locker on my A25. The previous owner had installed the tank (10" diameter by 17" high) on the port side just aft of the door to the cabin. Aft of the propane tank was a small icebox/fridge. Problem with the installation is that it wasn't a gas tight locker with a vent to outside the hull.
I don't want to risk a propane explosion so have removed the icebox, tank, etc and spent a few evenings measuring and contemplating possibilities. I determined I can build a ABYC approved propane locker there and still have room for the icebox. A store bought propane locker won't fit so will build with plywood and epoxy.

Tim

[Brian]

I built a vented propane locker out of fiberglass and it is in the Port side just aft of the main bulkhead as you mentioned.
It is tight, but managed to fit an 11lb steel Worthington tank in there with regulator and solenoid.
It has a thru hull on bottom vented to a thru hull in hull just a little lower. There is a air tight fitting for hose to go through fwd side torwards the galley. The whole box slides aft if need be to access fuel vent and hose fwd, and the back hinges open for removing tank.
We just came back from a 2 week cruise but will take photos for you soon if you'd like.
Brian

[Woody]

We just have a 2-burner camp stove that uses little 1 lb tanks. Today I installed a storage unit made from 4" pipe as suggested by someone on the forum. It holds 3 tanks. Here's a photo...

PropaneStorage.JPG

I just strapped the pipe to the swim ladder with 2 SS hose clamps.

Here's a closeup...

PropaneCloseup.JPG

[DougSea]

Today I installed a storage unit made from 4" pipe as suggested by someone on the forum. It holds 3 tanks.

I like that! I use those tanks with my Magna grill and they always seem to get wet and rusty. I think I need to make one of these storage tubes.

And I like the little teak standoff. Very shipshape!

[Woody]

Doug,
Actually the standoffs are cherry with teak oil (I didn't have any teak in stock), but teak would be better.

Note: each standoff is fastened to the pipe with a tiny screw just to hold them in place until the hose clamp is tightened - have to make sure the screw point does not intrude into the interior, as the propane cylinders just fit perfectly.

Also note: the bottom cap has holes drilled in it for drainage.

[RobS]

Very cool. Now you just need one of these

[Brian]

Here's our locker...

[amber jj]

Brian I don't suspect there is any outside venting in that location.Beware propane gas is heavier than air .Vents should be in lower part of the locker and vent to the outside.If you did have a leak you would not want to have the gas settle into the bilge.It could be very nasty.This was just something I was told while building a truck camper years ago.Bob

[Brian]

Hi Bob,
Thanks for the warning.
I do have the locker vented out thru hull.
In the photo you can see the thru-hull fitting which is connected to another thru-hull fitting on bottom of locker.
The hose goes through a air tight fitting near the top and the door closes against the closed cell foam seal on box opening.
Brian

[amber jj]

Good to hear you're right up on the safety. Propane is not to be messed with.