Propane tanks stolen :(

[6jdad]

As our Geo Pro over wintered in a fenced in storage facility, within 3 weeks someone stole both propane tanks and regulator. Took me some time to get over my anger, but the fact of the matter is they are gone and I'm replacing them. What are your best options for locking them up? Also, I'm open to any DIY devices that spray permanent ink on any potential thief...

Thanks in advance

[Reverse_snowbird]

Not a lot of good options to deter a determined thief. You don't want to use anything that would result in them damaging the trailer itself when they remove it. We used to remove the propane tanks and take them home.

They do make these https://www.amazon.com/RVLOCKBOX-Pro...NN9GG8HPF6KJEN
I'd recommend using the same round type of lock that they show on the bracket. Our storage unit recommends that type of round padlock because it is harder to cut off. Just don't lose the key.

[Kimber45]

if it makes you feel better im sure its not a fellow camper and prob some meth cooker

[Blackrock]

Just run a security cable through the handles on the tanks then over, under, around and through the tongue.

[NJKris]

Just clicked on Snowbird's link. It ticks me off that you have to buy something that costs almost as much as the stuff you are trying to protect. I can't believe they stole regulator too! I wouldn't feel comfortable about leaving my unit in a facility where stuff like that happens.

[waybeck2018]

Originally Posted by Kimber45

if it makes you feel better im sure its not a fellow camper and prob some meth cooker

You are so right. I had a full tank stolen (the second tank was almost empty) last year in my storage facility. Tank was tracked and found in an old camper in the woods adjoining the storage area.

I reported it to the managers and they in turn contacted the Sheriff Department. When they busted the meth dealer, my propane tank was there . I identify everything with a specific code in hidden areas. Sheriff identified it as mine by the code I provided and where it was, but of course the tank was empty LOL. Had to refill it but saved the cost of the tank.

[corky310]

I drilled a hole big enough for a lock to be installed on my tank hold down.
It won't stop someone determined enough but it'll certainly slow them down..
I'll attach a picture.

[nutdriver]

Originally Posted by corky310

I drilled a hole big enough for a lock to be installed on my tank hold down.
It won't stop someone determined enough but it'll certainly slow them down..
I'll attach a picture.

Great idea!

[Swampy]

Originally Posted by corky310

I drilled a hole big enough for a lock to be installed on my tank hold down.
It won't stop someone determined enough but it'll certainly slow them down..
I'll attach a picture.

This is exactly what I did to my TT tanks. No problems in 5 years. I was afraid the cable lock would just be another easy theft with a bolt cutter, and it would cost more than a longer shank padlock.

[NJKris]

Don't those long shank locks cut as easily as a cable with a pair of bolt cutters? No lock has been able to stand up to my bolt cutters. I used to lose keys a lot. After reading all these stories of what happens in storage locations, I don't think I would ever buy an RV unless I could store it at my home. Thankfully, I am able to.

[Swampy]

Originally Posted by NJKris

Don't those long shank locks cut as easily as a cable with a pair of bolt cutters? No lock has been able to stand up to my bolt cutters. I used to lose keys a lot. After reading all these stories of what happens in storage locations, I don't think I would ever buy an RV unless I could store it at my home. Thankfully, I am able to.

Over the years, I have removed many padlocks, both long shank & short shank, with my 36" bolt cutters, too. I store my TT at home and you know as well as I do that any lock only keeps honest people honest.
I agree, you need to be able to keep any eye on it as well for even better security.

[Maxwell D Pratt]

They don’t fool with the tanks here . They just back in your driveway and hook to your TT and leave with it. Has happened three times in the last two years. I keep mine in back yard with gates locked. And keep coupling locked with two locks.

[Dirt Sifter]

I just wrapped a chain thru the tank handles and down around the base the tanks sit in then locked it. Again not fool proof, just a time consuming deterrent to encourage thieves to go to the next trailer.

[Bashful365]

Great idea

[Doppleganger]

Will have to ask the person with the fiver down the street. Though, I’m thinking those are a bit trickier to drive off with.

[onetonford]

Originally Posted by corky310

I drilled a hole big enough for a lock to be installed on my tank hold down.
It won't stop someone determined enough but it'll certainly slow them down..
I'll attach a picture.

I'd make sure to put a lock tited nut on the long bolt where it goes thru under the mount so they couldn't put a pair of lock pliers and screw it out.

[NJKris]

When your life has gotten so bad that you are stealing propane tanks, time to inhale the contents and have yourself a nice ciggy while doing it.

[old40ford]

I keep mine inside my garage in the winter.

[babock]

Originally Posted by onetonford

I'd make sure to put a lock tited nut on the long bolt where it goes thru under the mount so they couldn't put a pair of lock pliers and screw it out.

Yep..Maybe even a tack weld on the rod.

[TexasBob]

Originally Posted by NJKris

Don't those long shank locks cut as easily as a cable with a pair of bolt cutters? No lock has been able to stand up to my bolt cutters. I used to lose keys a lot. After reading all these stories of what happens in storage locations, I don't think I would ever buy an RV unless I could store it at my home. Thankfully, I am able to.

Nobody ever post good news. I've had two different TT in storage for 15 years, never had a problem. They to have video cameras at my storage lot.