Scrapping Propane Tanks
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- Опубликовано: 2 окт 2013
- This is a video I wanted to do for a long time.
Please be careful when taking them apart and remember SAFETY 1st
Propane wrenches & more
www.kingsupply.com/Universal-P...
Hitch Vise Plate
www.harborfreight.com/hitch-mo...
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Find a hillbilly target range, they're all over the place in Texas where I live. Drop off a truckload of tanks, come back in a week with another load and pick up the previous load. Each tank will have at least 50 bulletholes. Works for big thick heavy propane tanks, freon tanks, and even old oxygen bottles and gas tanks from cars. Sometimes there are so many holes you can smoosh them flat with your foot.
Mike is extremely concise & makes this task sound easy as long as you follow this guide.
Fucking funny- Guy is wearing gloves while removing the valves, but then he's peeling the hacked up sheet metal back with his bare hands.
Good to know thanks mike I got a question how would you scrap a old tank from a old oil furnace I have some safety issues like old oil at the bottom
Thanks mike! been looking for this for a while. The tank I was having problems with, I took it into my metals class and we was able to pry it loose with a pipe wrench.
Thanks again.
I found out that just opening the knob on the propane wont cut it. I started to hear hissing when I started to remove the valve Perhaps the older ones would drain but mine had a valve that had to be depressed to let the propane out. I hooked a burner to mine so it would open the valve.
Thanks for this Video mike....I have always wanted to know what and how to deal with these things..outstanding!
great video always wondered . now im going to start getting old tanks great source of brass
Working as an RV Tech -several years ago when the old valves were phased out and the new ones were required we replaced hundreds of these valves as well as scrapped old tanks. We ended up with 5 -5gal buckets of valves, Thought we had a fortune-Ended up being less than $20....Dirty brass and the construction of these valves makes it far too time consuming to remove the other metals.-Out local scrap yard has no problems taking the tanks uncut-even with the valves still intact.
Awesome Video and very Helpful .
Thank you Mike
Thank you...It is hard work. I am always reading a book called "Time management for dummies" this has helped me organize my time in doing it all. it is hard to write a screenplay, direct, produce, edit and at the same time being the actor in the video's. On top of that working fulltime and being a parent & husband.
Hello. What is that tool called that cuts open the tank. Great vid.
here in the UK the tank remains the property of the gas suppliers. You pay £45 for the first tank and then about 15 for the next if you return the empty one. The new tanks that are coming out are carbon fibre.
how are you going to recycle carbon fiber? earth friendly? no
26 inch Leverage Rod! lol, I would just call it a bar, You make it sound so professional
Nice commercial for King Supply company
Just get two ratchet strap…attach to a tree…turn out bleed valve, open valve.
Find a big pipe that fits over front part of valve..turn sideways….then use any regular wrench/pliers lmao
Yeah. That would work too...
here in sweden we get like 75$ per 13,6Kg tara tank even if its empty. they are real expensive to get the tanks new.
when refilling a tank the whole tank is traded in and u get another safty checked tank and is only paying for the propane
i didnt need the tool i used my good ol twerker i just squatted puckered and turned in 4 circles counter clock wise
I did it with a crescent wrench, cheater bar, and a crow bar to keep it from spinning wedged against the concrete floor.
Scrappers are an entrepreneurial bunch. You'll be able to afford a camera soon and then I look forward to watching your vids. Cheers mate.
Watched a doco on the war in Syria. Some groups are adapting gas cylinders as artillery rounds. They fill them with explosive, improvise a detonator, attach fins and fire them out of homemade cannon.
Great vid.
Hey Mike,How long should the water stay in the tank before cutting open?
I have 5 in my backyard now. Have turned down picking up anymore cause i wasn't sure how to do it safely. Thank You.
The water is just to rinse some propane out. Check your yard. My yard just wants the Valve removed.
@@MiketheScrapper Thank You,Sir. Merry CHRISTmas to You and Yours.
That is one nice Prentiss vise..
I drain the gas from the tanks by using the propane for torches and burners. Then remove the valves and drill a couple of large holes in the tanks. Then I save them up till I have a truckload and take them in to be "shredded."
my wife is like whos mike the scrapper
You just made another sharp thing sticking out of the Gore yourself on! you I use a pickaxe to poke multiple holes in it. Don't need any fancy wrenches or holders just figure it out otherwise your costs are way too high to scrap this thing
Thank you...
Most scrap yards will take a tank if it has atleast a quarter inch hole drilled in it and ya dint have to worry about sparks, just go slow with it
I see 'little guys' around here pushing a shopping cart to the scrap yard with 14 bags of pop cans hanging off it. And there's a guy who goes around on a bicycle with a trailer picking up scrap metal. Now that's the little guy. Damn near brings me to tears to see these people struggling on, but they do it, and I give them props to that when others would crawl to welfare crying cause they can't make their Cadillac payment. Guess I'm mad, maybe I need meds, maybe I have some empathy problem.
I was just asking. I wasn't saying you were lazy. It was just a question. Thanks for changing my words.
Thank you
Its hard work with a vise. they may slip off and you need leverage
JUST GOT 3 5 GAL TANK GONNA MAKE BBQ POTS OUT OF THEM DIDN'T KNOW HOW TO DO THIS PROPERLY NOW I DO THANKS BROTHER GOD BLESS.
its hard work that way...I showed you the easiest tools to use. You saw how they came off with out breaking a sweat.
Thanks, Mike. This helps but there's no way I'm paying for those expensive tools!! Looks like I can improvise though. Don't worry, I believe in safety first as well.
Dam... I did all that you saw in an hour... But I used a saws all... I do not date use a torch...LOL..I like my eyebrows...HA HA HA
yeah i had to use a HUGE pipe wrench...
If i knew those tools existed before, i would of started accepting them widely.
ALSO
Safety tip: The tanks are ALWAYS saturated with the gas, visible or not. To cut with flame fill the tank with bleach water and let it sit ~1 month.
thank you
I used to maintain, clean, paint, and update valves for a propane company. In the bottom of these tanks is a oil, called essence of death. That is where you get your propane smell from. It is oils collected from dead animals. Sometimes when the filling tank gets low, it will pick up a large amount of oil. If you turn a tank upside down while there is propane inside, it will come out as a liquid. It is also below freezing. Like liquid nitrogen. IT IS STILL FLAMMABLE.
What is the best way to clean a 100Lb tank to cut into a Smoker? I have 3 with a small amount of Propane still inside.
If the tank is empty of gas/remaining gas is at ambient pressure the mercaptan (it's not made from dead animals) won't cool when released. The LP PHASE CHANGE is what drops temperature when it's LP is vented under pressure.
i should get 1 there are propane tanks every where here it wouldnt take long to pay for it
Cool
I wish you were close by I would happily pay you $10 a piece for them!
They are everywhere and people collect them and don't know what to do ....
Thank you. A friend trading me this MONSTER for a smaller one.
OMG...one job was over a grand..and that was in a weekend...
LOL...I saw one like that in a 007...
Is this your only job?
Pretty sure the giant fucking hole in the top is a good indicator that the tank is completely empty of any gas...
Light a match and see the fireworks.
well to those of you that say the tools are expensive. if you can't afford to buy them do what old school mechanics do make the tool your self form the scrap you get.you seen what they look like find some thick wall tubing or pipe and notch to fit.
NO. I work fulltime for a Municipality, Scrapper, Video Producer, Entrepreneur, Father & Husband.
I dont think of these as scrap tanks. I think of them as targets.
+Stan Jefferson LOL...If I could I would...
Yards take uncut tanks. You just won't get paid that's all
wow i just can't beleive you are a scrapper
Mine does without cutting them valves off that's it
We are busy Entrepreneurs...
Yeah, for your safety, cut a sharp spear out of the tank and protruding from it that can impale you or rip a nasty jagged gash in your flesh.
Maybe cut a different shape if you’re clumsy. Or maybe fragmented in a n explosion 💥 😂
HAZMAT shipping. no way.
all that work to make 3$.. even a whole night of scrapping n separating all the metal and drive allover the place to find it.. makes you 60$... thats worse than minimum wage
they are so much more useful to people, only an idiot would scrap them.
they have an expiration date on them. I think its only good for 5 years.
That is so cheap as a scrap. Should try to sell whole as it's still functional.
+Takuya or repurpose it as any number of things from a 2 stage BBQ to plant pots or any number of things...
So.............all that work for about four bucks?
Robert steinmetz the video is to show you how to scrap a propane tank. it is up to the viewer to determine is it worth doing.
Ii
Lol
i just shoot em with a 12ga after takeing the valve out with a pipe wrench
Well as I said, don't waste your time with propane tanks. They're dangerous, are next to worthless, time consuming and eat up blades processing them. See, I can't make videos because I don't own a video camera because I can't afford it. And sure as hell can't afford a gold plated $17 bar to turn out a brass valve.
the music has no purpose but making this thing "hokie" stop wasting your time adding it
what's with the porn music?!
I needed something to stimulate my viewers...LOL
totally not worth it unless you have truck loads of them. soooo not worth it .
everyone has three laying around they dont know what to do with put the word out and you can make a little money on this(little money) but for me 25 bucks for those tools i can get a piece of 2" pipe drill a hole and cut a couple notches for like 5 bucks but thanks for the idea on how to make the wrench
Scrapping is stupid. Just get a real job. The saw blade you used is worth $3. The valve tools are probably like $50. All for like $2 worth in scrap. Not to mention it's time consuming and dangerous.
lol, what are you 10 Years old? I have a Government Job. I retire in 7 years with Lifetime Medical and a Pension. I make over 60k a year without overtime. I do this to help people SUPPLEMENT INCOME. I have seen kids go on awesome Vacations doing this. They do it part time while in school. Its an awesome way to keep recyclables from getting into landfills. Open your eyes...
Propane cylinder tank vice LOL LOL LOL Why not just buy straps lol. Foolish
Make a video on how to attach a strap and to what solid object. I have tried and it slips.
I don't own a camera but I like the challenge. I have made one wood heater and I am planning to make a few more. I could not remove the tap because of lack of tools I found it more easy to remove valve fill with water and make a cut at the bottom until water comes out then it’s all downhill from there. Just don't get shocked :)
A basic tool could be made with cement and steal and it could be universal to a point or fully with a great design, utilizing the holes on the bottom of the tank.
Another way Two tanks could be strapped together removing the need for the tool perhaps. Problem solving is my thing and I could come up with many ways to do it with time of course.
Today was my first time cutting up a gas bottle and my second day welding
When I started scrapping, No one wanted to show me. A scrapyard took me by the hand and gave me ideas on how to make money. I also had a bicycle and had a friend take me to the scrapyard. I understand these scrappers. But when I had a chance to improve my self and get better tools I did. There are many times I used the wrong tools and cut my hands, arms & face. But that is why I use & show the proper tools. All my tools are investments. No matter how much they cost.
Cool
Epic background soundtrack makes the video very intense.......
I chewed my fingernails off just watching......
I love your channel and especially the theme music. Also the realistic outcomes. Way to go!
Hey mike I just started scrapping and I love the videos very helpful . I look forward to more tips n advice thanx bro
Just a piece of advice, the 2nd tank you showed has an OPD valve on it, which by opening it will not release the gas, nor will unscrewing the bleeder valve release the gas completely. While I appreciate the video, I have seen a lot of scrappers make dangerous mistakes with these tanks because they are unaware of the product.
thanks mike ...long time wait for this video...thank you.. every time watch your videos learn something new...thanks....
I have a few to get rid of. Scrapping them is what I would do unless I can make more from them somehow. I'm wondering what you use them for? Just wondering if there is a better outlet. Thanks.
Great Video Mike. I noticed the question was asked "Is this your only job?" Don't you love those questions. I work 65 or more hours a week. My Full time 40 hour job, my ebay business, our scrap business and my part time lawn mowing/pruning/fall cleanup/snow removal. People just don't understand how busy we are. It annoys me. Take Care.
would a pair of vise grips work just as well
The website I am showing was never ment to be for scrappers. This is for people with campers and RV'S. I found this company to be the only one to have the tools for scrapping propane tanks. So I made the video to show the tools.
Mike, I just meant as ( scabbybuttcrack ) pointed to a potential sharp hazard. As you bend them out why not in or do you brake break them off.
You can ask your scrapyard. some require that you just remove the valve.
This was super helpful - and complete.
Do you have any links to places that will take the propane tanks as-is? Some states will not let scrap yards accept tanks even if they are taken apart.
Tom Buechel I am trying to get some funding together to start a new site for all types of information. Hopefully I can get it off the ground next year.
@xIntoThePitx.
If you are going to make that comment you need to back it up with two things:
1. A video channel with content on it that helps people earn money ala Mike the Scrapper
2. A wife and children to care for.
You may have number 2, but as far as your channel xIntoThePitx stands at the moment, you don't have number 1.
Great info TY.
BTW my old school scrap yard takes tanks with valves. I pick up a Medical O2 tank with regulator still full of O2 for 7 bucks. Its only a few years old.
KOOL place, you name it, it probably there.
Mike, I have found about fifteen small camping propane tanks in my garage. They are empty, but I need to get the valve off for the scrap yard. Do you have any videos on how to do this? Thanks
Go to this site. we have useful info for you. just ask the same question. @groups/537171423067375/
Mike the Scrapper mike the scrapper on Facebook....
Find Preppers that Store Propane. New empty tanks are $30-$35. If you go to and exchange tank service without and exchange, it is usually about $55 to get a tank outright. If you take an old tank, ANY old tank to Walmart for a Blue Rhino Exchange you can walk out with a refilled tank for $18. At $10 for the core that gets me a nice re-certified full tank (Well 75% full for exchanges) for $28. Then I can refill it for about $10 (to 100%) at Tractor Supply Co. from then on.
It seems to me that there are many more valuable uses for these tanks, that would carry a significantly higher value than fetching $3 at the scrapper. ie: Stoves, heaters, steamers, forge, as a component to generate electricity, and more.
My video was only one way of recycling the tanks. they can be reused or sold for more money.
hi Mike I have a question for you when you turn the valve to release it from the tank do you turn it to the left or to the right
+elia gar Left, I presume
Yes you do. Are you replacing a valve? If so you have to use pipe dope on the threads. helps seal. Also new tanks and ones that have been open have to be purged. This gets the air out.
Hey Mike, great video. You answered my big question " how do you get those damn things apart without blowing it up !" I am always looking for you in the Dover area. There is another Mike the scrapper with a big white truck up here I see all the time. I actually saw him up at Don Jons and thought it was you. Keep up the good work.
LOL...No that's not me. I am always around. you don't see me cause I am wearing a disguise...LOL
I would talk to a company that removes tanks from the ground. They have to opened and wiped clean inside. I do think its worth doing.
I used just a regular pipe wrench with brute force. No issue removing any valve.
+roxborotomm Was thinking the same thing !
Mike,
If my calculations are correct, you make approximately $2.62 for the scrap: $.08 for the aluminum knob (3 oz. ?), $I.10 Brass valve, and $1.44 for the steel tank. That's total gross profit. And, I'm being liberal with those amounts.
What's your costs? You have saw blades, wear & tear on equipment, your time, and gas to and from the scrap yard, etc. Of course, you would amortize these costs over multiple tanks, but still I would be surprise if you made $1.50 profit, for what, maybe ten to fifteen minutes of your time.
You would be better off using your time figuring out a way to manufacture the necessary tools, and then wholesaling them to companies like "King Supply". I mean, come on, $16.95 for a 26" rod! And, those "valve sockets and wrenches", at $24.95/ each, look like they would be fairly simple to make, with just a little bit of ingenuity.
Maybe there's more to it, than what it appears. It's just a suggestion for different approach to making money. Hell, you could always do both!
As I watched you do what you do it looked scary to me but to each it's own. Peace
nice. great video. very informative. this will be yet another way I hope to supplement my income with scrappy-junk.
I have plenty to watch. You can make some money from my videos.
NP...I do understand you can find an alternatives for tools. I am just showing one way of doing it...
I would just like to say I believe you are confusing the bleeder valve with the pressure relief valve. And the POL's on the OPD valves have a safety feature that will not allow gas to be released unless there is a connection made. So definitely take out the bleeder valve to check for pressure on these tanks.
Never trust the valves. I make them safe by putting the tanks 100 yards out in a field and shoot them, then cut the brass off with a sawzall. I just dug five acetelene tanks out of the ground during a clean up job, dumped 'em on a dirt berm and shot 'em with my 223. One was still full and caught fire. They been there so long the caps wouldn't even come off. Luckily where I live two of the scrapyards with take cylinders with only the valve removed or a bullet hole to show its empty and they cut it with the sheer. Also it you cut metal with torches get a propane tip. If you scrap then you know propane is free.
Seems to me that they may be more valuable to sell as a reusable tank if you can find a buyer for any/all that you come across.
Also, if you don't want to buy the tool, a big pipe wrench works fine too.