Let’s Dive into Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane Kit
The Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane Kit promises to be a game-changer for anyone tired of constantly buying and replacing those small, green propane cylinders. Offered by Marshall Excelsior, this kit allows you to connect portable appliances to a larger, refillable propane tank, offering convenience and cost savings. Imagine the freedom of powering your portable grill, heater, or stove directly from the propane tank on your RV or patio, all without the hassle of running out of fuel mid-cookout.
My journey to this product started with pure frustration. Countless camping trips were marred by the dreaded “click, click, click” of an empty propane cylinder at the most inconvenient times. I was searching for a reliable and efficient way to utilize the existing propane supply on my RV to power smaller appliances, thereby reducing waste and saving money.
Unboxing the Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane Kit, I was immediately impressed by the robust feel of the components. The brass tee connection felt solid and well-machined, and the 12-foot hose appeared durable and flexible. The build quality seemed substantial, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
I considered alternatives like the Flame King Flow Pro and the Mr. Heater Buddy Series Connection Kit. However, I chose the Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane Kit due to the reputation of Marshall Excelsior for quality propane components and the positive reviews regarding the flow rate and ease of connection. Initial excitement mixed with a bit of skepticism – could this simple kit really eliminate my propane cylinder woes?
Real-World Testing: Putting Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane Kit on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The primary goal was to power a portable propane grill and a small propane heater from the RV’s main propane tank. Setting up was straightforward. I connected the brass tee to the RV’s propane tank connection, then attached the hose to both the tee and the portable appliances.
The weather was typical for the mountains: cool and damp, with temperatures dipping into the low 50s at night. The kit performed admirably. The propane grill fired up instantly, and the flame was consistent, even with the main RV furnace cycling on and off. There were no noticeable pressure drops or interruptions in the fuel supply.
The initial setup was simple, though I did need to ensure the POL fittings were securely tightened to avoid leaks. I also realized the importance of having a good set of adjustable wrenches for tightening the connections properly. There were no major issues, only the slight initial fiddling to ensure a leak-free connection.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane Kit has proven its reliability. I’ve used it on multiple camping trips, backyard barbecues, and even during a power outage to run a propane space heater. The hose shows no signs of cracking or wear, and the brass fittings remain corrosion-free.
The durability is impressive. Despite being exposed to sun, rain, and fluctuating temperatures, the kit continues to function flawlessly. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or grime.
This kit significantly outperforms my previous method of relying solely on disposable propane cylinders. The consistent fuel supply and the elimination of constant cylinder replacements have made my outdoor experiences much more enjoyable and cost-effective. It definitely exceeds my expectations for convenience and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane Kit
Specifications
The Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane Kit includes a brass tee connection (MER415) and a 12-foot hose (MER421-144). The brass tee features a .9 GPM excess flow male hard nose POL x female POL x 1-20 male connection.
The 12-foot hose features a .20 male x 1-20 female connection, allowing for flexible placement of your portable appliances. These specifications ensure adequate propane flow and secure connections.
The kit is designed to connect small, portable appliances to an existing LP-Gas fuel supply. This eliminates the need for separate propane cylinders.
The brass tee is equipped with an excess flow valve for added safety. This valve shuts off the gas supply in the event of a hose rupture or disconnect.
Performance & Functionality
The Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane Kit performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a consistent and reliable propane supply to portable appliances, eliminating the frustration of running out of fuel unexpectedly.
The kit’s primary strength is its simplicity and reliability. The connections are secure, and the propane flow is consistent, even when multiple appliances are in use. A potential weakness could be the 12-foot hose length, which might be limiting in certain situations, although an extension hose can be used. It definitely meets my expectations, providing a hassle-free solution for connecting portable appliances to a larger propane tank.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is robust, with high-quality brass fittings and a durable rubber hose. The kit feels substantial and well-made, inspiring confidence in its longevity.
The kit is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or expertise to install. The connections are straightforward, and the hose is flexible enough to allow for easy positioning of appliances.
Durability & Maintenance
The Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane Kit is built to last. The brass fittings are corrosion-resistant, and the hose is designed to withstand exposure to the elements.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving periodic cleaning to remove dirt and grime. The simple design also makes it easy to inspect for any signs of wear or damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit includes the brass tee and the 12-foot hose, which are the essential components for connecting portable appliances. While there are no specific Marshall Excelsior branded accessories, the kit is compatible with standard propane fittings and hoses.
Users can easily extend the hose length with a compatible propane extension hose. Additionally, a propane tank gauge can be added to the main tank to monitor the fuel level.
Pros and Cons of Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane KitPros
- Eliminates the need for disposable propane cylinders, saving money and reducing waste.
- Provides a consistent and reliable propane supply to portable appliances.
- Easy to install and use, requiring no special tools or expertise.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Compatible with standard propane fittings and accessories for customization.
Cons
- The 12-foot hose length may be limiting in certain situations.
- Requires careful tightening of connections to prevent propane leaks.
Who Should Buy Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane Kit?
Pros
- Eliminates the need for disposable propane cylinders, saving money and reducing waste.
- Provides a consistent and reliable propane supply to portable appliances.
- Easy to install and use, requiring no special tools or expertise.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Compatible with standard propane fittings and accessories for customization.
Cons
- The 12-foot hose length may be limiting in certain situations.
- Requires careful tightening of connections to prevent propane leaks.
Perfect for RV owners, campers, tailgaters, and anyone who frequently uses portable propane appliances. This kit is especially beneficial for those who want to reduce waste and save money by avoiding disposable propane cylinders.
Those who only occasionally use portable propane appliances or who require extremely long hose lengths may find this kit less suitable. Additionally, individuals unfamiliar with propane connections and safety precautions should seek assistance from a qualified technician during installation. A must-have accessory is a propane tank gauge to monitor fuel levels.
Conclusion on Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane Kit
The Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane Kit is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a convenient and cost-effective solution for powering portable propane appliances. The robust construction, ease of use, and reliable performance make it a standout product in its category.
The price of $119.99 is justified by the long-term savings on disposable propane cylinders and the added convenience of a consistent fuel supply. I wholeheartedly recommend this kit to anyone looking to simplify their outdoor cooking, heating, or other propane-powered activities. Ditch the disposable cylinders and embrace the freedom and reliability of the Marshall Excelsior MER470 Flow Longer Propane Kit!
