[C320-list] Propane tanks

[Art Harden]

> I am still a scriber to the Catalina 28 email group, and I thought I would pass along a discussion item, propane tank use. Some on the thread were new owners and they were asking about closing of seacocks habits ad that transition into propane use after I posted my boat closeup checklist below
>  
> Battery Switch
> Off
> Saves Battery Power
> Shore Power
> Off
> Optional , but reduces the potential of stray current in the marina
> Bilge Pump
> Automatic
> Ensures pump is operational. Sometimes I even lift the float to ensure all is working properly.
> Refrigerator
> Off & Open
> Reduces the potential for mold
> Sea Cocks
> Closed
> Ensures sea cocks are operational and seals potential leaks
> GPS
> In Cabin
> Safety from theft
> LP Tank
> Off
> Eliminates a potential for gas buildup in the bilge.
> Roller Furling
> Locked & Tied
> Prevents the sail from unraveling in high winds
> Wheel/Sail Cvr
> Secure
> Checks to ensure covers do not blow away
> Hatches
> Closed
> Secures boat from rain
> Trash
> Removed
> Removes unwanted smells
> Cell Phone
> In Pocket
> Eliminates the need to go back to the boat an hour after leaving it. It is very aggravating if you live 3.5 hours away and get home and find you left it on the boat.
>  
> Another item for new owners to consider, is using a combination lock on the hatch. It is easier to call you slip neighbor and ask "Can you go over and confirm the battery is off for me and the combination is ****." than to drive back to the marina just for peace of mind that the switch is off.  Just food for thought. Feel free to copy the list. It has saved my butt before. I even have one in the dash of the car as a second check before leaving the marina.
>  
> Obviously, there was a lot of discussion on seacocks and then someone mention that they relied on the solenoid to shut off the propane and it took off in a new direction. With some of the new owners and maybe even some of the experienced owner’s they may not be aware of proper safety measures that should be habits. Someone posted the link below and it is and excellent article. Even with my many years of boating, I found a few new wrinkles and helpful thoughts for me.
>  
> You are never too old to learn or refresh your memory.
>  
> From Jeff Ebert
> #1
> 
> This article by Don Casey describes how to use the pressure gauge to monitor for leaks. Is that what you mean, Ken?
>  
> https://www.boatus.com/expert-advice/expert-advice-archive/2012/july/propane-systems
>  
>  
> Art Harden
> Tortuga -Catalina 320 #243
> 937-477-5544
>