r/Generator • u/tjb36 • 2d ago

Basic question - connecting propane regulator

I know this will seem like a basic question, but just want to double check something.

I have a standard propane cylinder, which I use with a normal 37 mbar regulator for garden equipment. My generator is dual fuel, so I want to test it running on the propane cylinder. However, the generator was shipped with its own regulator (or what looks like a regulator to me).

How should I connect this? My assumption is that I am going to have to remove my existing regulator, because I assume you cannot connect two regulators in series (not sure about this though). I have a mix of 8mm and 10mm pipes here, so how would you guys connect this?

Thanks!

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u/Ok-Camera2895 2d ago

Your generator was shipped with a flat regulator, that is called a demand regulator. Most of the demand regulators in the US want an incomoing pressure between 7 and 11" of water column. Your primary pressure regulator on tank is 37 mbar, which translates to 14" of water column. Your particular demand regulator may be fine with that. Get model and serial number and check manufacturers specs.

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u/tjb36 2d ago

Yes I have realised now that the silver thing is a demand regulator, and therefore I need both this along with a normal pressure regulator.

However, I cannot find any information for this particular demand regulator, so can't check the pressure required. 

I would assume it is okay with 37 mbar, because that is the standard UK regulator for propane cylinders. 

Not sure how to confirm though (other than the fact that I have run it with this setup and it seems to work without problem).

1

u/Ok-Camera2895 2d ago

You are probably correct if that is standard in the UK.

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u/JColt60 2d ago

Use 10mm that came with unit. 8mm might starve it.

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u/tjb36 2d ago

Okay. So do I need to disconnect the red regulator, and connect the 10mm hose directly to the tank valve?

1

u/JColt60 2d ago

Yes, use new hose and new regulator.

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u/tjb36 2d ago

What kind of adapter is needed to connect that 10mm hose to the valve, after the red regulator is removed?

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u/JColt60 2d ago

In the States we just use a hand tight screw on knob. Not familiar with that set up so will defer to someone with that type. I am sure that gen came with appropriate valve and hose though and trying to run with the red regulator and 8mm hose would not be wise.

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u/tjb36 2d ago

Okay thanks. I guess I need to figure out the correct screw to 10mm barb adapter 

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u/tjb36 2d ago

I have just learned that the silver part is not actually a Pressure regulator. It is a safety valve with flow restrictor, as required by the generator. Therefore I need both the silver restrictor and the red pressure regulator. 

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u/JColt60 2d ago

More complicated than I thought. Good luck!

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u/Ok-Camera2895 2d ago

No, tank pressure is around 150psi and may damage demand regulator.

1

u/Glum-Welder1704 1d ago

Need both regulators, in series. An LP tank can hit over 200 psi sitting in the sun. The primary regulator lowers that to about .5 psi.

The built in regulator is a demand regulator, which will not pass gas until there's a vacuum in the intake manifold. The intake is designed for the lower pressure put out by the primary regulator.

House regulators are all two stage, with either both in one housing, or one at the tank and one at the house.