Mopeka Propane Tank Sensor Maintenance

[TucsonJim]

While I was attending a rally earlier this year, ncitro helped me install Mopeka tank sensors and pair them with my Victron VRM portal. Until very recently, the were very accurate. However, since our last trip, both tanks were showing full, even though I knew one was at about 60%.

I removed the sensors and found them to be filthy as can be seen in this pic.


I wiped off the dirt and old gel from the sensor and the tank. Then I applied a new layer of ultrasound gel.

I placed the sensor back on the bottom of the tank (it's held in place by magnets) and took a new reading from the VRM Portal. It reads 63% now which is exactly what I expected.


Here's a link and photo of the gel that I used:

https://a.co/d/fhw3Vim







Jim

[markandkim]

I want to get those.
The ones for water tanks.
I've had the propane ones for 3 years now and they work great.
Thanks for reminding me to get them. I have 5 tanks.

[Cindy]

I'm interested in installing these on my tanks, Amazon shows many choices... one has 'tank halo's' which look like rubber gaskets that fit on the bottom ring... is this a good idea? I'm not traveling just yet but have been periodically surprised by no propane/hot water in the morning... thanks,
Cindy

[Cate&Rob]

The rubber gaskets (tank halos) are a good idea. The lower ring on some tanks does not leave enough space for the Mopeka sending unit. I use these and they do the job. Also . . . If your propane lockers are open to the road below, consider a piece of plywood under the tank to make sure the sensor does not “go missing” on the typical interstate.

Rob

[Country Campers]

I'm interested in installing these on my tanks, Amazon shows many choices... one has 'tank halo's' which look like rubber gaskets that fit on the bottom ring... is this a good idea? I'm not traveling just yet but have been periodically surprised by no propane/hot water in the morning... thanks,
Cindy

I did add the rubber tank bottom to help with clearance. I also added the plastic part that holds the sensors on, this helps in not relying on the magnet to hold them in place. I have been very happy with them. I also added plywood, as Rob suggested above, to help in case the sensor falls off of the tank. Also important to note to remind the person filling the tank to be careful as there are sensors on the bottom.

Brian

[Cindy]

Rob, Brian..... Thanks ! Excellent idea about the plywood... I'll add that to my list....
Cindy

[KamFlyer]

One other thing I have found with mine is that the battery spring contact under the battery is fairly weak and can 'relax' causing an intermittent connection. I have had this happen to 2 of mine. The first was replaced by Mopeka (via Amazon) and the second I troubleshot a bit further and discovered the weak contact. I bent the contact spring back up slightly and it has been fine since.

[Cindy]

Good to know .... thanks....

[TravelHabit]

For those looking to purchase I'll note there are two versions of this.

The original are rectangular shaped and the newer version is round

Mine came with aluminum standoffs to keep the recommend separation to the bottom but I ended up buying the halos as one of three stand-offs went missing.


I had the rectangular shaped one for a few years but ended up selling those and getting the pro versions as amazon had them discounted to $46 (need to track with camelcamelcamel.com or similar). Supposedly they use less battery power. I also liked that I can adjust the sample rate from the phone.