Lugging propane cylinders in the back of the pickup for a refill can be risky. Left on their own, they tend to tip over, and can get into mischief. Federal regulations tell us that transported cylinders need to be secured. Here’s an RVtravel.com reader’s suggestion for fifth wheel owners. This propane tie-down hack is simple!
Big bump in the bed is secure point for this propane tie-down hack
Bruce McDonald says he uses that big bump in the back of his pickup for a secure fixing point. You got it, his fifth wheel hitch. Combining a sturdy nylon strap with a chunk of high-density foam, it’s a simple “wrap-around” idea that keeps the cylinder in place.
You could easily substitute a ratcheting load tie-down strap—no doubt stronger than his nylon strap. Bruce says he’d consider it, “if I was driving more than a couple blocks.” He was concerned that perhaps his setup might not meet U.S. Department of Transportation requirements.
No worries. The DOT doesn’t get real nuanced when it comes to support. A simple “Propane cylinders must be secured in a manner that prevents movement during transportation” is all Uncle Sam says.
Bruce is happy with his nylon strap and foam hack. And he reminds us that it takes up very little space, and is lightweight. Kudos to Bruce!
Propane tie-down for non-fifth wheelers
But what if you’re not a fifth-wheeler? Follow this link to Frank’s hack for hauling propane cylinders in his truck that he tows his travel trailer with. Yes, it’s a bit more elaborate, but gets a gold star from many of our readers. You can find out more by clicking here.
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RVDT2666
In my experience ‘milk crates’ are perfect for transporting 20 & 30 # propane cylinders. And no you do not have to steal them from dairies (illegal) to get the sturdy type. Many of the big box building supply stores now stock them. Using these crates, you only need a simple tether to keep cylinders in place. Another hint: full cylinders are far more stable than empties. And the finger holes make it easier to lift the cylinders into truck beds.
We found some crates from a Dairy that went out of business at a flea market. $5 each.
I have yet to find a ‘sturdy’ crate sold at any Big Box store.
There are some online, but cost close to $15 plus shipping.
I used a milk crate for a few years. I found that it wore out (cracked and lost pieces). I found a propane tank stand at UHaul. It is smaller and lighter than a milk crate. We’ll see how long it lasts. (FYI $10)
Full disclosure: I use mine to store my camp stove & grill tank. It gets moved often when we are camping.
I put my 20# tank in a plastic milk crate. They’re sold in stores, relatively inexpensive.
Thank you, Russ and Tina! Great ideas! Have a great day and safe travels! 🙂