Propane Valve Experts?

[danieldd]

Well, its not exactly garage related, but my garage is within 20 feet....

Does that count?

Anyway, I know there are many here that have a broad wealth of knowledge and I wanted to ask here before I start calling Monday to some of the propane gas companies.

I bought a used outdoor propane firepit and when I got it home I noticed the gas valve wouldn't turn. This is one of those valves that you push in and then turn to the right, I guess to regulate the amount of propane.

I can push the valve in, but it doesn't seem to want to turn, in either direction. I can't seem to find this part online and its probably because I don't know what I'm looking at. Any idea what this is called and where I can get one or is this repairable

And yeah, I should have tried it out before I bought it. I've already gotten grief from the wife about this already....

 

[A_Pmech]

You can't open the valve to supply gas to the main burner until the pilot proofing thermocouple is hot.

Hold down the valve handle, light the thermocouple, wait a minute for it to warm up and hold, then turn the burner valve on.

 

[fireguy]

I would be concerned about the crud on the valve also. If the valve is the least bit sticky, I would look for a name and model on the valve. Then do a search for a new valve. You might also remove the valve and take it to a propane supplier who might be able to supply a new valve. There might also be appliance repair shops who could help you.

 

[danieldd]

I would be concerned about the crud on the valve also. If the valve is the least bit sticky, I would look for a name and model on the valve. Then do a search for a new valve. You might also remove the valve and take it to a propane supplier who might be able to supply a new valve. There might also be appliance repair shops who could help you.

The "crud" was the result of a dirt dobber's nest. Don't see how this would affect the operation.

 

[danieldd]

You can't open the valve to supply gas to the main burner until the pilot proofing thermocouple is hot.

Hold down the valve handle, light the thermocouple, wait a minute for it to warm up and hold, then turn the burner valve on.

???

Sorry, I don't understand this. The unit has an electronic ignition, so I don't know why the thermocouple has to be hot first for the valve to work. Do you think it won't turn because I don't have a propane tank hooked up to it?

 

[fireguy]

I am done

 

[danieldd]

You can't open the valve to supply gas to the main burner until the pilot proofing thermocouple is hot.

Hold down the valve handle, light the thermocouple, wait a minute for it to warm up and hold, then turn the burner valve on.

Ok, got it. That works. It lights up, thermocouple opens, but valve is stuck open. Think I need a new valve. Thanks.