Mounting propane tank and water heater.

[Rockatanski]

I'm new to the forum and was hoping I could get some advice. I am converting a 99 e450 with basically an ambulance box (was a police truck so it doesn't have the interior cabinets). It has underbody toolboxes like a box van and I want to mount my RV style horizontal lpg tank in one. So I"ve found a NFPA site about venting the box etc. The question is if I build a divider could I mount my water heater in the same box? I would have to have the box open to run the water heater which would mean the flame would be about 3' away from the regulator. What do you guys think?

[Night Roller]

Absolutely not!!! Got to have that tank outside of a confined space in case the over pressure valve goes off. Would also recommend it be as far from any potential heat source as possible, such as exhaust system.
Good Luck!

[nat_ster]

Propane tanks need to be outside, and if inside a confined space like a cabinet or box, it must have ventilation in the floor. Propane is more heavy than air, so it will vent out the bottom VS going BOOOOOOM if it stays confined.

Best is a sheet steel box, with expanded metal bottom.

Every tank also needs to be secured. Rubber tarp straps don't count.

Nat

[Tango]

DOT can shut you down on the spot and possibly impound your vehicle if propane tanks are not approved and/or improperly installed. They need to be "outside the box", well ventilated and definitely away from any heat or spark source

[Night Roller]

I know, I drive 18 wheeler for a propane co., 15yr's. now.