5lb. propane tank - get or skip the one with built in gauge?

[wahoowad]

I want a 5 lb. propane tank and shopping for the Flame King one. They have a 5 lb.'er that comes with a built in gauge and one without. The one with the gauge is only 5 bucks more. I heard the gauges aren't accurate although don't mind forking over the extra 5 bucks so I can glance at it and see when it might be getting low. Thoughts?

 

[grubworm]

i just use a hose with a gauge. i rather keep the tank simple and if there is a problem with the gauge, its easier to deal with it being on the hose rather than the tank
besides, my tank usually gets a little roughed up during travel and a gauge would get cracked, etc

 

[wahoowad]

What has your experience been with your gauge? Feel it is accurate enough?

 

[KD7WCD]

By the nature of working with compressed gasses the gage dousent really tell you much. It is not like the fuel gage in s vehicles. It will pretty much tell you that you are running out when you are just about out.

Non the less there is nothing bad about having on.

You can judge your fuel level in the tank while you are using it by feeling the side. There will be a buffenent line where it is colder. On a cold morning you will even see a frost line where the fuel level is at.

Weighing is also a pretty good way to judge how much fuel is left in it. When it is empty note the weight. Then fill it and see what it weighs. Then again after a normal use or weekend trip. After a while you'll get a feel for where it is at buy just picking it up.

The little 5Lds bottles are great. Post some pictures of them in use and maybe your transportation solutions.

 

[Tundracamper]

I’m pretty sure there is a magnet in the gauge that follows the OPD float inside the tank. I know because you can rotate the tank and the gauge level changes. The gauge just clips on. So, I think accuracy of the tank gauge is decent, at least until the fluid level gets low. I do have a tank that I presume has a bent OPD and the gauge is not that accurate. Another works great.

 

[FishinCrzy]

I think that is the tank I have with guage. Been working fine for several years now. Do wreck or mend.
Also, have it secured with a Monkey Fist?? One of those rubber straps.