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LP-POWERED MACHINES
LP FUEL TANKS
Standard D.O.T. LP fuel tank sizes have 14, 20, 33.5, and 43.5 lb. capacities. The liquid volume permitted in
these containers is less than the total volume of the cylinder, to provide for expansion of the LP fuel should the
temperature increase a normal amount. Excessive heat may cause the fuel to expand too much, causing the
safety relief valve to vent some LP fuel, relieving internal tank pressure.
Each tank is marked showing the type of construction (liquid or vapor), the manufacturer, the date of manufac-
ture, the capacity, the weight, and the date of requalification. D.O.T. LP fuel tanks must be requalified
(checked) periodically. This requalification must be recorded and maintained for the life of the container.
USE & CARE OF LP TANKS
If an LP tank is damaged or leaking, it should be removed to a designated safe area and the proper personnel
should be notified. Do not attempt to make repairs to the cylinder, regardless of conditions. Repairs must be
made by qualified personnel.
The care an LP tank receives has a direct bearing on how long that tank can be used safely. LP tanks must
not be dropped, dragged, or slid across any surface. To move LP tanks, use a hand truck, or roll the LP tank
on its foot ring while it is being held in a position slightly off the vertical.
CHANGING MACHINE LP TANKS
Refueling machines with LP tanks is an important function. Refueling is accomplished by replacing the empty
LP tank with a full one.
The tank changing operation presents an opportunity for the machine operator to observe, carefully, the tank,
tank fittings, and the fuel lines and the fittings for his own satisfaction. If abnormal wear is detected, the
operator should report his findings to his supervisor for appropriate action.
To begin the tank changing operation, park the machine in a designated safe area and stop the machine. Next,
close the tank valve, then remove the quick-disconnect coupling from the tank valve. Observe the machine fuel
lines and the quick-disconnect for damage or abnormal wear.
Remove the empty tank from the holding device and observe the tank and tank fittings for damage or abnormal
wear. Handle the tank carefully; it must not be dropped or mishandled.
Store the LP tank in a designated safe area. Select a filled LP tank and observe it for damage or leaks.
Carefully install the filled tank in the machine so that the tank centering pin enters the aligning hole in the tank
collar. This assures that the tank is positioned properly, so that the safety relief valve, liquid level gauge, and
service valves will operate properly. Fasten the tank retaining bracket so that the tank is locked into position.
Reconnect the fuel line to the tank servicing coupling. Open the service valve slowly and check for leaks. If a
leak is found, close the valve immediately and notify the appropriate personnel. If no leaks are found, the
engine is ready to start. Do not start the engine unless the operator is in the operator's position, with the
directional control pedal in the neutral position.
STORAGE OF LP FUEL TANK
Whether the storage is inside or outside, it should not be in the vicinity of combustible materials or high tem-
perature sources such as ovens or furnaces, since the heat may raise the pressure of the fuel to a point where
the safety relief valves would function. Care should be taken to insure that the cylinders are stored in such a
manner that if the safety relief valves do function, they will relieve vapor, rather than liquid.
Valves on empty tanks must be closed during storage and transportation.
Similar precautions should be taken in storing machines fitted with LP fuel tanks. They may be stored or
serviced inside buildings, provided there are no leaks in the fuel system, and the tanks are not overfilled. While
machines are being repaired inside a building, the shut-off valve on the tanks must be closed, except when the
engine must be operated.
American-Lincoln
1-25
3366XP
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