Simple 320S Alde Tank Access & Bleeder Location

MuttonChops

Seems I'm always checking the Alde Tank or having to access the tank area for wiring and those small head, long wood screws holding the cabinet panel in place are a pain.

So, installed two Pronged Tee Nuts (8/32) and now use easy to turn machine screws.

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While working on a different project I had the Passenger Side Cabinet Panel  off (opposite side from Alde Access Panel) and noticed the primary glycol bleeder value is located on the floor in that space . . .

jkjenn

That is a cool solution, but I am perplexed about why it requires such frequent access and tweaking. I believe the only time I accessed that area was for curiosity and to make sure I had enough fluid. My Alde has been such low maintenance. I thought I had a problem, once, but I believe I needed to simply open the LP tank much more slowly. This seems especially true after elevation gain. 

MuttonChops

jkjenn said:

That is a cool solution, but I am perplexed about why it requires such frequent access and tweaking.

The first year of ownership I only checked the fluid level twice and all was well**.  Then this past spring I checked to find the tank empty and a couple of months later it was very low (needing additional fluid).  So I've increased the frequency of checking.

System has no signs of leaking so assume this is normal usage.

** from factory tank was over filled, as in at the filler cap level

pthomas745

Even if you only check it once a year, this is heroic work.

lkc001

I just removed the screws permanently on mine.  The panel slides in & out with little effort and stays in place once it is in place.

BrianZ

Is the point maybe that one wouldn't need a screwdriver to remove a bolt with a head that is easy to grip with only fingertips?  In this case, it may reduce any disincentive to check it more frequently if it can be done without tools.

ScottG

I'm curious about that bleeder--I'm pretty sure mine (2015) doesn't have one in that location, though there is one on the passenger side of the back fin-tube convector.

MuttonChops

BrianZ said:

Is the point maybe that one wouldn't need a screwdriver to remove a bolt with a head that is easy to grip with only fingertips? 

I'm using Pan Head Screws so a screwdriver is needed to start/finish but once loose fingertips work fine & fast . . . something I could never do with the wood screws . . .