Transferring propane from old tank to new one

[grsthegreat]

I have worked with several propane companies over the years, and they all transport tanks with only 20-30 gallons on propane in the tank. They tell me its due to the weight of the tank if holding propane, not a transport rule. They leave some in tank to use to pressure test tank and all gas lines they install prior to filling tank (80%).

 

[bigtiller]

I have worked with several propane companies over the years, and they all transport tanks with only 20-30 gallons on propane in the tank. They tell me its due to the weight of the tank if holding propane, not a transport rule. They leave some in tank to use to pressure test tank and all gas lines they install prior to filling tank (80%).

Good post. And another reason for a few gallons in the tank is moisture. A completely empty tank can draw moisture.

An empty tank with no pressure should be purged to insure there is no moisture in the tank.

 

[LittleBittyBigJohn]

When I was just about finished with my house. The propane tank delivery and hook up was holding up the last couple of items for my plumbers before I could move in. I raised a big stink. It had been raining and the ground was soupy wet. They said there was no way they could deliver the tank until the ground dried up. I told them to get the tank to my house ASAP and drop it in the driveway if they have to. They ended up sending a 250 gal tank 80% full. I unloaded, transported it, and set it in place using a big excavator. The driver rigged it by the "tie down" ears and there was no problem.

 

[LouNY]

When my 1000 gallon was delivered and set this fall it had a bit over 10% in it. They had no issues using the lifting eyes to move it and set it.

If I was going to move an old or new propane tank I would just cover it good with a tarp. That would eliminate most questions, or use a closed trailer like a stock trailer.

Okay, you can be the guy to cut into the old tank.


I've got two big old farm heating oil and gasoline tanks waiting to get cut open, that were rinsed with water and have been sitting out two years and open to the air. They still smell of fuel. Maybe LP is different?

As far as cutting open old fuel oil or gas tanks, After they have aired out for some time I've always suck a piece of hose in an exhaust pipe and into the tank let the vehicle run and walk away for an hour. Come back and start cutting, usually with a torch.

 

[5030]

Years ago a shop up near Detroit, they were working on a propane yanker, don't know what they were doing, news said they were doing some welding. Anyway the tank exploded and levelled the entire place as well as killed all the employees working in the shop. My bud who owns the propane company I buy my gas from has his trailers and delivery trucks worked on. I'll have to ask him what special considerations are involved sometime. I'm sure there are.