Locking Valve for Overhead Diesel Storage Tank

[GaryBDavis]

I picked up a 300 gallon overhead storage tank for $60. The hoses, nozzle and shut-off valve are frozen up, but the tank is in real good shape.

I went down to the local farm supply and got a new hose, filter, and nozzle, but I can't find one of those locking shut-off valves. You know, the one you can put a padlock on. Anyone know where to get one of those dohickis?

I'd also like to put a meter on, but the ones I've seen are expensive. Anyone have a recommendation on that, please pass it on.

Thanks

 

[DieselPower]

It would probably be just as easy to buy a "lockout-tagout" device. A simple housing that is used in industry that goes over valves, switch's, etc... that you put a padlock on. Your local Fastenal store should be able to get you one. Home | Fastenal

 

[GaryBDavis]

I've seen those in the Grainger book, but the ones they make for the tanks are just too cool.

 

[texasjohn]

Gary... am envious I've not found such a bargain... I've had to travel a good ways and pay $150 to $175 for such a tank. Know where I can get one like you did? I'm getting ready to play the fuel commodities game... fill tank while prices low...use from tank when prices high/shortages exist.

 

[Thumper & Buttercup]

You guys are going to laugh but I put a regular valve that just turns 90 degrees to turn off the fuel. Then I took a regular farm hinge and cut out a oval that would fit the valve so it went through the hinge. I then drilled out the bottom of the hinge so I could put a padlock on it. I did have to bend the hinge a little so it would fit over the pipe. Works great. I can put up a photo if you guys like, I also ran pipe for a 12 volt pump and mounted it on a board, works like a charm.

 

[GaryBDavis]

I'm always interested in seeing pictures.

 

[LBrown59]

You guys are going to laugh but I put a regular valve that just turns 90 degrees to turn off the fuel. Then I took a regular farm hinge and cut out a oval that would fit the valve so it went through the hinge. I then drilled out the bottom of the hinge so I could put a padlock on it. I did have to bend the hinge a little so it would fit over the pipe. Works great. I can put up a photo if you guys like, I also ran pipe for a 12 volt pump and mounted it on a board, works like a charm.

I keep mine behind closed locked doors.

 

[GaryBDavis]

My tank will be outside the shop but the gates to my place are locked. I don't think it will ever be an issue, but wanted to set it up with a lock.

I don't think anyone makes this type of lock anymore. Seems nowdays, everyone uses a lockout cover or a locking handle on a ball valve which is what I'm going to do. The old style locking valves I've seen all use a plunger and I can see issues with leakage over time. Ball valves don't have packings to wear out or at least if they do, they bleed through instead of dripping diesel on the ground.

 

[Thumper & Buttercup]

Here are a couple shots of my gas tank and the lock.
Hope this helps.

 

[coobie]

I picked up a 300 gallon overhead storage tank for $60. The hoses, nozzle and shut-off valve are frozen up, but the tank is in real good shape.

I went down to the local farm supply and got a new hose, filter, and nozzle, but I can't find one of those locking shut-off valves. You know, the one you can put a padlock on. Anyone know where to get one of those dohickis?

I'd also like to put a meter on, but the ones I've seen are expensive. Anyone have a recommendation on that, please pass it on.

Thanks

By god you got one heck of deal on that tank!!!I paid over $650 bucks back in 2000 for a overhead 300 gal.tank,hose,filter.Great find.coobie