Propane Tank

Submitted by Davis Northnagel

The Princess Butane Stove that came with the early C250 had a separate canister holder mounted behind the water tank. According to the manufacturer, the stove can run on propane as well as butane.  I removed this canister holder and replaced it with a stern mounted propane tank.

A 2.5 gal. propane tank holder was fabricated from stainless steel tubing.  It was made of a base bent in a "U" shape, and two sides bent in a 90 deg. angle as shown in the photos.  A stainless steel strap was welded across the bottom to support the tank, and a 1/4" rod, bent to the diameter of the tank body was welded across the side pieces.  The tank was held in place with a heavy duty bungee cord (from West Marine). The tubing was cut to match the shape of the hull, and 3/8" stainless steel bolts were welded into the tubing, with washers welded to the tubing. Matching holes were drilled, and it was mounted with appropriate bedding and backed with large stainless steel washers.

A regulator was connected to the tank.  I chose to install a brass thru-hull fitting, then connect the regulator to it on the outside. One single hose was used inside from the fitting, following the bilge pump line, then under the floor, and up behind the water tank, to the stove. All rub points were protected with a larger hose and held in place with tie-raps.

I close the tank after EVERY usage, to prevent possible leaks (I hate gas).  I use the stove frequently for cooking when away for several months.  It lasts over one month (I have never let it run out). Following are several pictures.

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Davis Northnagel
Catalina 250wb #179
"FoPa"

Submitted: 03/27/00