The Crusader Propane 450mm Pigtail with Hand Wheel Fitting connects your propane cylinder directly to a fixed Euro regulator in caravan and motorhome central gas systems. The M20 threaded handwheel fitting screws on without tools, which makes cylinder changes straightforward even in tight gas locker spaces. This 450mm length works well in most standard gas locker configurations where the regulator sits close to the cylinder position.
Built for UK and European propane systems, this pigtail suits both single regulator setups and changeover valve installations. The handwheel design means you can tighten the connection properly by hand, though you still need to check for leaks with soapy water after fitting. The M20 thread is the standard size for Euro regulators, so it fits most fixed regulator systems found in caravans and motorhomes manufactured from the mid-2000s onwards.
One thing to note is that 450mm only gives you limited flexibility for cylinder positioning, so measure your gas locker before ordering if your regulator sits further from the cylinder connection point. The pigtail handles propane only, not butane, and should be replaced if you notice any cracks, stiffness or damage to the hose. Most people replace pigtails every 5-7 years as part of routine gas system maintenance, even if they look fine.
Crusader Propane 450mm Pigtail With Hand Wheel Fitting Features
- Tool-Free Handwheel Fitting Hand-tighten connection without needing spanners or tools
- 450mm Length Fits most standard caravan and motorhome gas locker layouts
- M20 Threaded Connection Connects directly to fixed Euro regulators and changeover valves
- Propane-Specific Design Left-hand thread pattern for secure propane cylinder connection
- Changeover System Compatible Works with both single regulator and dual cylinder setups
Specifications- Length : 450mm
- Connection Type : Handwheel fitting with M20
- Compatibility : Designed for Central Regulator or Changeover systems
- Use : Direct connection to fixed Euro Regulator
Frequently Asked Questions
The M20 handwheel fitting connects directly to fixed Euro regulators commonly fitted in caravan and motorhome central gas systems. The M20 thread size is the European standard for regulator inlet connections and became widespread in UK leisure vehicles from the mid-2000s onwards when manufacturers moved away from clip-on connections to threaded systems for improved safety and reliability.
Handwheel fittings allow tool-free installation and removal, which makes cylinder changes simpler in cramped gas lockers where using spanners can be awkward. The handwheel provides enough leverage to achieve a gas-tight seal when tightened by hand, though you should still check connections with leak detection fluid. This design also reduces the risk of overtightening that can damage threads when people use tools to get connections extra tight.
The 450mm length works in most standard gas locker configurations where the fixed regulator mounts close to the cylinder position, typically within 300-400mm. Measure the distance from your regulator inlet to the cylinder valve position before ordering. If your regulator sits further away or you need the pigtail to route around obstacles, you may need a 600mm or 750mm version instead. Shorter pigtails are generally preferable when they fit because they create less slack that could chaff against locker walls.
This pigtail is designed specifically for propane cylinders and should not be used with butane. Propane and butane use different cylinder valve threads and require different connection hardware. The handwheel on this pigtail has the left-hand thread pattern used on UK propane cylinder valves. Using the wrong pigtail type creates a serious safety hazard as connections will not seal properly and can leak gas.
Replace propane pigtails every 5-7 years as standard maintenance, even if they appear undamaged. The rubber hose degrades over time from exposure to temperature changes, UV light in gas lockers, and general wear. Replace immediately if you notice cracks, stiffness, bulging, or damage to the hose or fittings. Also replace if the handwheel becomes difficult to turn or if you detect gas smell around connections after proper tightening and leak testing.
A pigtail is a short, pre-made connection between the cylinder valve and regulator, typically 450mm to 750mm long with fixed end fittings. Standard gas hoses are longer flexible connections, usually 1-2 metres or more, that run from regulators to appliances. Pigtails in modern caravan and motorhome systems connect cylinders to fixed bulkhead-mounted regulators, whilst the longer hoses then distribute gas from those regulators to individual appliances inside the vehicle.
Yes, this pigtail works with automatic changeover valve systems where the M20 inlet ports on the changeover unit accept the same threaded connection. You need one pigtail per cylinder in a changeover setup, so two pigtails for a standard dual-cylinder system. The handwheel fitting makes it straightforward to swap cylinders when the changeover valve switches to the reserve cylinder and you need to replace the empty one.
After hand-tightening the pigtail connections at both the cylinder valve and regulator inlet, open the cylinder valve and apply leak detection fluid or soapy water to all connection points. Watch for bubbles forming, which indicate escaping gas. If bubbles appear, close the cylinder valve, release pressure by briefly opening an appliance, then retighten the connection and test again. Never use a flame to check for leaks. If connections continue to leak after proper tightening, the pigtail or mating threads may be damaged and need replacement.
SAFETY NOTICE:
All products and parts must be installed by engineers who hold a valid certificate of competence. The installation must comply with the manufacturers instructions and local regulations. We cannot be held responsible if these instructions are not followed.
Please note we are a camping, caravan and motorhome company and NO gas product that we sell is suitable for mains (domestic) gas supply.