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Old 02-25-2014, 04:39 PM   #1
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Propane Door Lock

My SF270BH is my first 5er. I've only had TT and pop-ups before. I'm used to propane tanks on the tongue instead of in a compartment behind a door. The door to the propane compartment does not have a lock. I'm changing the CH751 locks and want to put a lock on the propane door at the same time. There's no law or D.O.T. regulation against putting locks on propane compartments is there?
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Old 02-25-2014, 05:17 PM   #2
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http://www.rv.net/forum/index.cfm/fu...print/true.cfm

This is an interesting discussion about propane door locks.
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Old 02-25-2014, 05:23 PM   #3
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Just run a HD cable lock thru the handles. My 2¢…
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Old 02-25-2014, 05:56 PM   #4
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Thanks good idea
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Old 02-25-2014, 06:27 PM   #5
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Most folks, at least the one's I've discussed this issue, have the same feelings. Basically it's a safety issue.

Example, if you're aware from your rig sight seeing or what ever for an extended length of time and your rig suddenly develops a leak due to an OPD issue or other, then it's not a big deal to simple turn the tanks off.

Given the fact that a lot of folks grill outside, a leaking tank or tanks can set up a very explosive condition.

In addition, there are several tunnels and bridges across the country that have inspectors that will check your tanks to the off or closed position.
They don't like it if you have to get out of the TV, go to the access door, unlock it, so they can do a quick check, and not hold up traffic.

Boils down to a matter of safety rather than theft. Apparently the mfg'ers think the same, otherwise the doors would have locks.
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Old 02-25-2014, 06:50 PM   #6
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I totally agree with greyeagle.
Before you put locks on the propane door I would really recommend you do some checking as to the legality of doing that.

Besides that, I have never had a propane tank come up missing, and have never run into anybody that has.

When we dry camp for a month in the fall, I have a 30# and a 10# tank sitting outside on the ground, two 30# tanks in the unlocked compartment. Never had a problem there either.
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Old 02-25-2014, 06:59 PM   #7
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I was told that there are laws saying they are not allowed in case of fire
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Old 02-25-2014, 07:41 PM   #8
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Here is one that Tweety's sells online:


Link: http://tweetys.com/rv-propane-lock-3-8.aspx
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Old 02-25-2014, 07:46 PM   #9
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That looks like it's on a set of bottles situated on the tongue?
In my opinion, that might be legal, but not a lock on the door.
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Old 02-25-2014, 08:04 PM   #10
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I just used a long shank bicycle type lock from WALMART... Drilled down thru the twist on screw and the metal frame below it and slip the long shank lock thru that... Keep it simple...

Something like shown in these photos from google search...

This is a simple and inexpensive lock.
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Old 02-26-2014, 06:22 AM   #11
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that has to be the easiest lock up I have seen ....wish I would have thought of that one ...will get done this spring. thx
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Old 02-26-2014, 06:34 AM   #12
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Tanks have serial numbers on them. Right them down somewhere. We had ours stolen. Sheriff said its happens a lot.
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Old 02-26-2014, 08:50 AM   #13
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I have to store my TT at an rv storage location. One of the requirements is to not have locks on the propane door and label that door as propane location.

In the case of a fire at the location, they can quickly remove those from the proximity of the fire, not allowing these "bombs" to explode with the heat.

Not sure if it's a local requirement but I'm sure the firefighters need as many precautions as possible under those circumstances.

Living in So Cal, I do use a cable to secure them but at least they could easily be turned off if necessary.
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Old 02-26-2014, 04:38 PM   #14
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Both Mark and Russ have the right idea provides security but allows access to tank shut off. I just take my chances that someone won't steal them. I think a locked compartment is not sensible. JMHO
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Old 02-26-2014, 04:53 PM   #15
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While not a perfect solution it should slow someone down. The threaded rod would have to be removed and that would take time and tools. I may tack weld the rod at the bottom.
I did mine today, $8 for the bike type lock at Lowes. Drilled 3/8" holes.
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Old 02-26-2014, 04:56 PM   #16
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I vote for Russ's solution; a lot cheaper that the one I posted.
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Old 02-26-2014, 05:08 PM   #17
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Quote:
Originally Posted by mark5w View Post
I vote for Russ's solution; a lot cheaper that the one I posted.
Have to agree simple DIY beats shelling out the coin!
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Old 02-26-2014, 05:26 PM   #18
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I understand your concern. As a firefighter and fire marshall there is no law saying it has to be locked, but I would suggest that you place an LPG sticker on the door. Trust me if your unit is on fire the fire department will not be taking the time to play with a door, I have been there and done that and just ripped off the door. I rather have to RV owner replace a door, than the entire camper. So if you that concerned about theft lock away, just let the FD or any good person know where the LPG is. Also if a person wants to steal the tank they will steal the tank.
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Old 02-26-2014, 09:51 PM   #19
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DOT considers LP a hazmat. However, the amount is the defining spec for travel. Since TTs and 5ers do not carry enough hazmat to require a placard, you can safely assume that external tanks can be locked down as long as they can be seen and if necessary, neutralized in the event of a fire. Truckers are allowed to lock their trailers on placarded loads, but have to have the MSDS available at all times when transporting, again, as an aid if there is a fire. If the manufacturers do not put a lock on the LP door, it is probably because of issues of accessibility in case of a problem more than a question of holding up traffic. In my years of driving, I never had an inspector take any more or less time than what was needed to inspect my freight and paperwork. My opinion is that the LP storage door should be left unlocked, especially if you anticipate an inspection.
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