[TheForge] Converting a propane tank to a gas forge

[terry l. ridder]

hello paul;

On Tue, 23 Jun 2009, Paul N wrote:

> I've acquired a "few" old/junked propane tanks (20lb, and 30lb) that I'd
> like to convert to gas forges.
>
> I made one at the UMBA forge build last winter, but I wasn't happy with
> some of my decisions (it was my first time at this). Since these were
> cheap, I thought I'd just try again.
>
> My plan was to remove the valve, fill the tank completely with water,
> and use a pneumatic cutoff wheel to open it up.
>
> What presently has me held up is removing that stinking valve. I'm
> currently thinking I need a bigger lever, cuz that thing is on there TIGHT.
>

i have all the large open end wrenches for propane valves and a tank
vise which i use to hold those stubburn valves.
you can make a tank vise out of 2x6 lumber and all tread rods.
if you have a nature tree handy just use a large strap wrench around the
tree and tank.

contact me off list if you want to bring them over and we can remove the
valves here.

or i can load the pickup truck with the tools and come your way.


>
> But before I go the brute force path, has anyone on the list done this
> and have advice to offer?
>

i have removed valves from several hundred propane cylinders so far in
my 57 yrs.

>
> Mid 90's here in northern IL too. (and I agreed to meet at the
> blacksmith shop this evening, maybe we'll have enough sense not to start
> up the forges... nah)
>

this is the first year since the head-on-collision that i am actually
able to be out and about. last year i was pretty much wheelchair bound
and watching dish brain-numbing network and the drivel that they spew
out to the masses. this weather is proving not to be kind to me. i have
been taking refuge indoors in air conditioning till evening hours when i
venture out into the garage/shop and attempt to do some small tasks.


where are you located?

are you up toward rockford, illinois?

>
> **paul
>

-- 
terry l. ridder ><>