Change a Propane Tank
Forklifts powered by propane are common inside warehouse settings. These forklifts have a propane mount located at the back of the operator. These tanks need to be replaced every so often because they have limited lifespans. Drivers of forklifts must use caution when handling propane tanks. Compressed gases are dangerous, specially since the gas is flammable. Use care when replacing and removing propane tank to avoid injury.
1 To change a propane tank, first stop the forklift while leaving the engine running, and turn off the valve on the tank. Let the lift truck run until the engine dies. This procedure burns the gas off in the transfer hose that connects the tank and the engine. Prior to taking the second steps, wear the proper safety equipment, such as insulated gloves made of either leather or neoprene. It is essential for you to protect your skin from touching the compressed gas, which is extremely cold.
2 Disconnect the hose from the tank and take the holding straps off to remove the tank. When putting in a new tank, tighten the nut to reconnect the holding straps and to reconnect the hose at the valve of the tank.
3 Leaks could be inspected just by applying soapy water to the valve and slightly opening it. If there is a leak, it would cause bubbles to foam from around the valve. If this happens, check the valve area and the connection hose at the nut. Re-tighten the connecting nut if you detect any leaks around the area of the valve, and after that do the leak checking process again. Persistent leaks mean that both the nut and connecting hose will have to be replaced. Then again, if replacing the nut and hose still does not stop the leak, the tank will need to be replaced.
4 Open the valve all the way to enable the gas to fill the connecting hose. After that you could start the lift truck and resume operating.