Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ Review

Let’s Dive into Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent countless hours securing everything from sensitive electronics to heavy-duty tools for transport. RVs present a unique challenge: keeping those propane tanks safely in place while bouncing down the highway. That’s where the Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ comes in, a seemingly simple but crucial component of any RV propane tank mounting system.

My journey to this particular center rod stemmed from a personal need. I was refurbishing a vintage travel trailer, and the original propane tank securing system was rusted beyond repair. I needed a reliable, RVIA-compliant replacement to ensure my propane tanks wouldn’t become a safety hazard on the road.

Upon unboxing the Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″, my initial impression was of solid, no-frills construction. The steel felt sturdy, and the threads were clean and well-defined, indicating good manufacturing. Its weight felt appropriate, not flimsy but not excessively heavy either.

I considered a couple of other options, primarily complete tank mounting kits from different manufacturers. However, many of these kits included support pans that didn’t quite fit my vintage trailer’s dimensions, or hold-down bars that felt less robust. Ultimately, the Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ offered the flexibility I needed to integrate it into my existing setup.

I was cautiously optimistic. Securing propane tanks is no joke, and I wanted to ensure this unassuming rod would do the job effectively. My excitement would depend on its real-world performance and durability.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test involved installing the Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ into my refurbished travel trailer’s propane tank compartment. This involved pairing it with a new tank support pan and a heavy-duty hold-down bar I sourced separately. The installation was straightforward. The rod’s 18-inch length was perfectly suited for securing two 20 lb. propane cylinders.

I tested its holding power by driving the trailer over a bumpy dirt road, simulating typical RV travel conditions. The rod held the tanks securely in place, with no noticeable shifting or rattling. Even after a particularly jarring pothole, the propane tanks remained firmly anchored.

There were no immediate issues or surprises. The Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ performed exactly as it should, providing a reassuring level of security.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including multiple camping trips and hundreds of miles of highway driving, the Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or tear, no rust, and the threads remain in excellent condition.

Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe down the rod occasionally to remove any dirt or debris. The Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ has exceeded my expectations. My previous experience with cheaper, generic tank mounting hardware was far less positive, often resulting in loose tanks and a constant worry about safety.

Breaking Down the Features of Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″

Specifications

The Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ is a seemingly simple component, but its specifications are critical for ensuring proper function and safety.

• Rod Length: 18 inches. This is the most crucial dimension, as it dictates the size and number of propane cylinders that can be secured.
• Compatibility: Designed for use with 20 lb. cylinders. While it might work with some 30 lb. cylinders, the 20 lb. rating ensures optimal security.
• Material: Steel. This ensures the rod can withstand the stresses of travel and the elements.
• Compliance: Meets all RVAA and RVIA requirements. This guarantees the rod meets industry safety standards for RV propane tank mounting systems.
• Wing Nut: Requires a 1/2 inch wing nut (not included). Ensuring you have the correct wing nut is essential for properly tightening the system.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the safety and reliability of the propane tank mounting system. An incorrectly sized or poorly constructed center rod can lead to loose tanks, potential leaks, and even dangerous accidents. The Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″‘s compliance with RVIA standards offers peace of mind, knowing it has been designed and tested to meet rigorous safety requirements.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ is to securely hold propane tanks in place during RV travel. It performs this job exceptionally well. The rod provides a stable and reliable anchor point, preventing the tanks from shifting or rattling even on rough roads.

The strength of the steel and the clean threads ensure the wing nut can be tightened sufficiently to create a secure hold. There are no inherent weaknesses in its design; it’s a simple, robust solution that gets the job done. The product meets my expectations, exceeding some based on previous experiences.

Design & Ergonomics

The Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ features a straightforward design. Its simplicity is its strength. The steel construction gives it a robust feel.

Its weight strikes a good balance between durability and ease of handling. There is no learning curve; installation is intuitive for anyone familiar with basic RV maintenance.

Durability & Maintenance

The Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ is built to last. Its steel construction and corrosion-resistant finish suggest it will withstand years of exposure to the elements. Maintenance is simple. Just wipe down to remove dirt and debris.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ itself doesn’t come with accessories. It integrates into a larger system. You’ll need a support pan, hold-down bar, and wing nut.

The rod is compatible with most standard RV propane tank mounting hardware. Aftermarket customization options are limited. Its function is very specific.

Pros and Cons of Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″

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Who Should Buy Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″?

The Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ is perfect for RV owners, especially those refurbishing older models, or replacing damaged components. It’s also a great choice for anyone prioritizing safety and reliability in their propane tank mounting system. Individuals performing DIY RV repairs will also appreciate its simplicity and ease of use.

This product might not be ideal for individuals looking for a complete, all-in-one propane tank mounting kit. They may prefer purchasing a complete kit that includes all necessary hardware. Those prioritizing aesthetics over functionality might also find its basic design unappealing.

Must-have accessories include a compatible propane tank support pan, a heavy-duty hold-down bar, and a 1/2 inch wing nut.

Conclusion on Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″

The Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ is a reliable and essential component for any RV propane tank mounting system. Its durable steel construction, RVIA compliance, and easy installation make it a solid choice for ensuring the safety and security of propane tanks during travel. At a price of $16.99, its value is exceptional.

I would definitely recommend this product. It offers peace of mind knowing your propane tanks are securely held in place. If you’re looking for a dependable center rod for your RV propane tank setup, the Marshall Excelsior Bottle Rack Center Rod 18″ is a worthwhile investment. Don’t compromise on safety – upgrade your system today!