Propane hose replacement?

lkc001

Hello!  I need to replace the propane hose.  It looks like the rubber on the hose is cracking -- haven't had any propane smell but don't like the look of the hose.  Anyone using the stainless steel ones?  Are they better/ last longer?

pthomas745

This thread explains the proper pigtail fittings.

https://tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com/discussion/8089/help-propane-pigtail-replacement-type

This is an example from Amazon of the pigtail

https://www.amazon.com/GGC-Stainless-Braided-Connector-Inverted/dp/B08M14QMJL/ref=psdc_7787980011_t1_B07D29SNMX

lkc001

Yes I understand the proper fitting— that’s a good thread but I was asking if the stainless steel braided ones are better than the rubber?  Thanks 

DaveAnna

The SS braid just covers the rubber hose. Helps with abrasion

ScottG

That was my thought @DaveAnna. While the steel braid may help with abrasion (not really a problem in the T@B application) it also might prevent proper inspection of the hose for cracks or other damage. FWIW, I've replaced mine a few times. At minimum, I inspect mine with soapy water at the start of each season, and I carry a spare. I almost consider these a normal wear item. 

pthomas745

Sorry, @lkc001 I didn't catch the question properly.  I've had the braided and non-braided, and they seem to fail at the same rate.

RTWCTS

The idea of braided line is that it helps prevent bursts from fluid pulsing through the hose (like a washing machine water line) in addition to the previously mentioned abrasion resistance (like the hose on a sink sprayer).

Edit to add: Gases are considered a fluid.

lkc001

@ScottG  thanks for that info--that was my second thought--so if you get one of those with the SS it is not any better nor will last any longer than just the rubber with no shielding and you cannot visually inspect the rubber hose.  

lkc001

@pthomas745 Thanks!  So it appears that the SS is not any better as far as longevity of the rubber hose itself. unless it is close enough to be rubbing on something.  I have had to replace my hose every year it seems as it gets tiny hairline cracks and I'm concerned that they will all of a sudden open up?  Or are the hairline cracks just normal?

rcarlson1957

I tried a SS hose for my portable gas fire pit. In no time at all the SS covering started coming apart and that SS weave material will stick you pretty good. Went back to the plain hoses. Easier to inspect too. 

jimcenname

FYI, my factory hose brass-colored fitting started leaking at the pressure regulator after four years of full-time use. I replaced it with something similar. I admit occasionally bumping the fitting and regulator when I wash my T@B (twice a month.)