Change a Propane Tank
Propane powered forklifts are frequently used inside warehouses. The lift truck is designed with the propane tank mounted at the back of the driver. The tanks, which look much like beer kegs, have to be replaced every so often as they have a limited lifespan. Forklift drivers must always utilize care when handling propane tanks. Compressed gases are very hazardous, especially since the gas is flammable. Utilize care when replacing and removing propane tank to prevent being injured.
1 To change a propane tank, first stop the lift truck and leave 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 which connects the tank and the engine. Before taking the second steps, wear the proper safety equipment, like for instance insulated gloves made of either leather or neoprene. It is important for you to protect your skin from touching the compressed gas, that 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, reconnect the holding straps and reconnect the hose at the valve of the tank by tightening the nut.
3 Leaks can be checked simply by applying soapy water to the valve and slightly opening it. If there is a leak, it will cause bubbles to froth from around the valve. If this happens, check the connection hose at the nut and the valve area. The connecting nut must be re-tightened if you detect any leaks in the area of the valve, and after that do the leak inspection process again. Persistent leaks mean that both the connecting hose and nut should be replaced. Nonetheless, if replacing the hose and nut still does not stop the leak, the tank should be replaced.
4 Lastly, open the valve all the way to allow the gas to fill the connecting hose. Then you could start the forklift and resume operating.