Let’s Talk About Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder
The Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder isn’t exactly the sexiest piece of gear, but it’s absolutely essential for countless outdoor adventures and mobile living situations. Manufactured by Manchester Tank, this horizontal propane cylinder is designed for secure and space-efficient storage, making it perfect for RVs, campers, food trucks, and any setup where vertical cylinder placement isn’t an option. Its most notable feature is its horizontal design, allowing for installation in standard compartments, a vital space-saving consideration.
For years, I’ve struggled with finding a propane storage solution that fit neatly into my off-road camping trailer. Traditional vertical cylinders were bulky and awkward, eating up precious cargo space. I needed something that could tuck away neatly, allowing me to maximize storage without sacrificing propane capacity.
When I first unboxed the Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder, I was immediately impressed with the robust build quality. The steel felt thick and durable, and the welds appeared clean and solid. It had a reassuring weight to it, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of bouncing around off-road. The powder coat finish looked tough and ready to resist rust and scratches.
Compared to other horizontal propane cylinders I’d considered, the Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder stood out due to its integrated mounting brackets. Some competitors required separate mounting kits, adding to the cost and complexity. The clearly marked “TOP” orientation was another thoughtful touch, eliminating any guesswork during installation.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to finally have a space-saving propane solution, but I was also a little wary about potential issues with horizontal propane draw and longevity. Could this tank truly deliver consistent performance in demanding conditions? Only time and testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder to the Test
First Use Experience
My first serious test for the Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder came during a week-long camping trip in the high desert of Southern Utah. I used it to power my camp stove for cooking and a small propane heater for those chilly desert nights. The desert environment presented challenges: intense sun, fluctuating temperatures, and plenty of fine, pervasive dust.
The cylinder performed flawlessly under these conditions. Despite the heat and dust, the propane flow remained consistent, and the stove and heater operated without any hiccups. I appreciated the ease of use; the 1-3/4 inch Acme Fill with OPD made refills straightforward and hassle-free. There was no need to get used to it; the connection points and overall operation are the same as any standard propane tank.
One minor surprise was how easily the tank picked up heat from the sun. I made sure to keep it shaded whenever possible, but it’s definitely something to be mindful of in extremely hot climates. Other than that, there were no issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of regular use, the Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve taken it on several camping trips, used it for backyard barbecues, and even temporarily hooked it up to my home’s emergency generator.
Durability has been excellent. The powder coat finish has held up well, showing only minor scratches despite being bumped and jostled during transport. The tank shows no signs of rust or corrosion, even after being exposed to rain and snow.
Maintenance is minimal. I occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dust and grime, and I always ensure the connections are clean and tight. Compared to my previous experiences with poorly made propane cylinders that leaked or corroded easily, the Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder is a significant upgrade. It has consistently outperformed my expectations in terms of reliability and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder
Specifications
- Capacity: 5.5 gallons, equivalent to a standard 20 lb propane cylinder. This allows for the same cooking and heating as a standard propane cylinder, while maximizing space usage.
- Dimensions: 12.16 inches high x 17.37 inches long. These dimensions are important when planning for storage space.
- Fill Valve: 1-3/4 inch Acme Fill with OPD (Overfill Protection Device). This valve ensures safe and easy filling.
- Mounting: Front and rear brackets for secure mounting. These brackets offer easy installation to secure to a vehicle, cart, or trailer frame.
- Orientation: Must be filled vertically and used horizontally. This design consideration is critical for proper operation and safety.
- Markings: Permanently marked “TOP” for proper installation. This eliminates guesswork and prevents improper usage.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the tank’s usability, safety, and integration into various applications. The horizontal design with secure mounting is the key differentiator, making it ideal for tight spaces. The Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder is designed to maximize space without sacrificing propane capacity.
Performance & Functionality
The Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder performs its primary function – storing and dispensing propane – exceptionally well. The flow is consistent and reliable, even when the tank is nearing empty. I’ve experienced no issues with pressure drops or inconsistent flame on my appliances.
The main strength of this cylinder is its space-saving design. It allows you to store propane in locations where a standard vertical cylinder simply wouldn’t fit. A minor weakness, common to all horizontal tanks, is that it must be filled vertically.
Overall, it meets my expectations perfectly. The Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder provides safe, reliable propane storage in a compact form factor.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The heavy-gauge steel and durable powder coat finish inspire confidence. The weight is substantial enough to feel robust, but not so heavy as to be unwieldy.
The design is simple and functional. The tank is easy to handle, and the clearly marked “TOP” orientation eliminates any confusion during installation. There is no learning curve; the connections and operation are identical to standard propane cylinders.
Durability & Maintenance
The Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder is built to last. The thick steel construction and durable powder coat finish provide excellent protection against rust, corrosion, and physical damage. With proper care and maintenance, this cylinder should provide many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional inspection of the connections are all that’s required. The valve is also easily accessible for inspection and replacement, if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder doesn’t come with any specific accessories beyond the integrated mounting brackets. However, it is compatible with a wide range of standard propane regulators, hoses, and fittings.
You can easily customize your setup with aftermarket propane gauges, quick-connect fittings, and various hose lengths to suit your specific needs. Because the Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder uses standard propane connections, customization options are virtually limitless.
Pros and Cons of Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder
Pros
- Space-Saving Design: The horizontal orientation allows for installation in tight compartments and maximizes storage efficiency.
- Durable Construction: Heavy-gauge steel and a robust powder coat finish ensure long-lasting performance.
- Integrated Mounting Brackets: Front and rear brackets provide secure and easy mounting.
- Standard Connections: Compatible with standard propane regulators, hoses, and fittings.
- Easy to Use: Straightforward operation with a clearly marked “TOP” orientation.
Cons
- Must Be Filled Vertically: Requires vertical orientation for filling, which can be inconvenient in some situations.
- Price: The initial cost is higher compared to standard vertical propane cylinders.
Who Should Buy Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder?
The Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder is perfect for:
- RVers and campers seeking to maximize storage space in their rigs.
- Food truck operators needing a compact and secure propane storage solution.
- Anyone with limited space requiring a reliable propane source.
Who should skip this product?
- Those who have ample vertical space for standard propane cylinders.
- Individuals on a very tight budget, as cheaper vertical options exist.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A high-quality propane regulator with a gauge.
- Appropriately sized propane hoses for connecting to appliances.
- A protective cover to shield the tank from the elements.
Conclusion on Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder
The Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder is a well-built, reliable, and space-saving propane storage solution. While the initial cost is higher than a standard vertical cylinder, the benefits of its compact design and durable construction justify the price for those who need it.
The value proposition is strong, especially for RVers, campers, and food truck operators who prioritize space efficiency. I personally recommend the Manchester Tank Worthington Cylinders 20 Lb. Horizontal Cylinder to anyone seeking a high-quality, horizontal propane storage solution. If you’re tired of bulky vertical cylinders eating up valuable space, this tank is a game-changer. Make the switch and reclaim your storage!