Driving with propane (Carbon monoxide)

[pacific3000]

Hi Everyone,

Getting ready for my trip to Arizona (Chiricahua Natl Monument).

Last time, while driving to my destination everything was fine. I had my unopened Coleman fuel stored separately in my trunk. But, on the return trip, I had 2 canisters that were only half full. I think they were leaking, because I started to feel dizzy, so I threw them out and problem solved.

My question: is it okay to travel with half-full propane canisters? I would like to use all my fuel, and it seems like a waste to throw them out (and more expensive).

Any suggestions on traveling with canisters that have been opened?

[renodesertfox]

Keep the stove in a clean, dry place and cover it when not in use. Never transport the stove with the propane canister connected. The canisters themselves should be stored upright and in a place where they can't be knocked around. Don't store the canisters in a car trunk or any place where the temperature can exceed 120 degrees F. Keep the stove, canisters and all other related appliances away from children. It is not carbon monoxide until the fuel inside the canister fuel is being used(burned). Also make sure that the fuel has been turned off completely before placing in an upright position and wedged so it won't bounce around on you. There are ways to refill these 1 pound wonders, but that is a different subject.

Hopefully other campers will chime in...my thinking is just off the cuff, the first things. I'm sure there are more safety tips that I've failed to mention that I know others will offer their knowledge. It's a great question for thought!

Canister Care

Before using a canister, create a mixture using 1 tbsp of dishwashing detergent to 1 cup of water and lightly pour on the outside of the canister to determine if there are any leaks. The mixture will lightly bubble if there is a hole in the canister with escaping gas. The propane canister should be used carefully when attaching and detaching from the camping stove. Making sure that the nozzle is tight and that there are no leaks or holes will assist in the stove working and functioning properly. The canister should be stored in a cool dry location away from heat and additional flame. The canister should not be shaken or dropped as this could cause the canister to explode. Additionally, making sure the propane canister is the appropriate size for the stove will prevent a gas leak.

Stove

Make sure that the stove is in a properly ventilated area outdoors. Never use a propane stove in a camper, tent or a garage. Propane gives off carbon monoxide. Too much carbon monoxide will cause a person's oxygen level to be depleted and may lead to death. Make sure that the propane cylinder that attaches to the stove is not rusted or broken anyway. Also, make sure that the knobs that connect the stove to the cylinder are not stripped and have a secure and tight fit.

Burner

One of the most important parts of the propane camping stove is the burner. The burner uses the gas flow from the canister to ignite the burner. The burner establishes a flame which is controlled by the temperature knob. If the burner has any breaks or rust in its shape, it will likely not perform up to proper temperature standards. Most burners can reach temperatures up to 400 degrees F, while some are higher depending on the size of the stove.

Ignition

Making sure that the stove ignites properly and quickly is beneficial in it reaching the recommended temperatures. Ignition occurs when a switch is engaged and the friction from the switch meets the gas flow to establish a spark. The spark ignites the burner and the stove begins to heat up. For ignition problems, checking to see if a battery needs to be replaced is a safe troubleshooting method. It is not recommended to ignite a stove with a match or lighter if the igniter switch is broken. Doing so can cause a small fireball of gas to rise and possibly cause burns on the person igniting the stove.

Lighting

Lighting the stove should always be done using the stove's igniter--a safe method because the spark is isolated inside of the stove. The metal stove resists fire and backlash from a small gas explosion, should one occur. Making sure that fingers, arms, face and other body parts are away from the stove during the ignition process will reduce the risks of burns and serious injury.

[pacific3000]

Don't store the canisters in a car trunk or any place where the temperature can exceed 120 degrees F.

Thanks, VegasDesertFox. I won't be storing them in my trunk once I reach the campground, but it is okay to drive with them to the campground in the trunk?

[renodesertfox]

No! Don't store your canisters in the trunk of your car when tempertatures in your trunk can exceed 120 degrees. If you have a cramped space without ventilation and it's a small canister(1lb.) put the can inside your cooler that is in your trunk. You need to keep the gas cooled! Or keep it inside the passenger compartment if there are no children present. The passenger compartment will never get above 120 degrees. If you smoke, put the canisters on the opposite side of the passenger compartment. You could also wrap them in a blanket and put them in your trunk. The canister isn't a grizzley bear, it's just a can of liquid energy, you just have to be smarter than the can.:eek: And don't litter!:D
BTW: You can use my first name, Brent. Typing vegasdesertfox is long. VDF works too!

[pacific3000]

Thanks, Brent. Enjoy your camping trip - looks like we'll both be in Arizona this winter.

[Enfodia09]

Driving with propane Carbon monoxide

We have got about a 3 inch deep scratch on the bonnet, is there a simple repair/Cover up, or are we stuck with it, ?

[Waterfowler84]

Any suggestions on traveling with canisters that have been opened?

Some auto parts stores sell removable luggage racks for the trunk of your car It straps under the trunk hood and attaches with clips. I used to use one when I had my Buick LeSabre and it worked out great for things such as propane canisters. I always put them in a rubbermaid container and strapped em down to the luggage rack. This way they are outside of the vehicle and in a ventilated area. My stove also fit in the the container so I kept everything like a kit. These racks are also great for hauling things too big to fit in the trunk. On a side note if you go this route i would also recommend ratchet tie down straps. A lil more expensive than the normal tie down straps but easier and and more efficient. Good luck, and happy camping!