Changing Propane Lines On a 168 Shasta Compact Camper When Relocating Stove

Updated 02/03/2026 | Published 07/19/2024

Question:

I have a 1968 Shasta Compact that needs the propane lines replaced. Currently the regulator connects to a short length of black pipe under the trailer, elbows up through the floor to a T with a 3/8 copper line to a Holiday 3 burner stove. The problem is that we changed the layout so instead of the stove being at the tongue curbside corner, it is now in the middle of the street side. There seems to be a lot of debate about the use of black pipe vs hose. My little Compact is only 12ft including the tongue so it can bounce around quite a bit at times during travel. Because of this I’m leaning toward a hose underneath. My question is what size should I use and what fitting to get it through the floor? I’m only running the stove and have no plans to add anything else. Would a 1/2 inch hose be overkill? Is there such a thing as a bulkhead elbow fitting for propane. I’ve got the inside part covered….a shutoff valve to 3/8 inch copper line to the stove. It’s the underside and through that I need help with. I look forward to any recommendations you have. Thanks, Cristen

asked by: Cristen

Expert Reply:

Personally I would only use the black steel pipe for anywhere below the RV and going through the floor surface into the camper. This is just going to be much safer than having a rubber line since rubber will degrade over time and can more easily become damaged. Rubber lines should really only be used going from the propane tank to the regulator and from the regulator to the black steel pipe under the camper. You can use copper lines once inside the camper like you already have in parts. But do remember copper is not near as durable as steel so be cautious using it where it could become pinched.

expert reply by: Bud M

Jerred H.

2/3/2026

Hey Cristen, how did things go with the propane line setup on your Shasta Compact after switching to black steel pipe under the trailer? Your update could make it easier for others working on similar vintage campers.