Connect a standard QCC/Type 1 propane cylinder directly to your RV or trailer propane regulator with confidence. The E18INPT features a 350 PSI maximum working pressure rating, built-in thermal protection, and integrated excess-flow protection -- all in an 18-inch flexible pigtail that installs in minutes with no tools beyond a wrench.
RV propane systems typically use a two-stage regulator mounted between the cylinders and the appliance lines. The pigtail hose is the flexible link between the QCC/Type 1 valve on your 20 lb or 30 lb cylinder and the 1/4-inch inverted male flare inlet on that regulator. Using a properly rated, CSA-certified hose like the Flame King E18INPT is not just a convenience -- it is a safety requirement.
The E18INPT is 18 inches long, which provides enough flex to allow easy cylinder swaps without straining the regulator connection. The QCC (Quick Closing Coupling) Type 1 ACME fitting threads on hand-tight with a left-hand thread, while the 1/4-inch inverted male flare end wrench-tightens to the regulator inlet. No pipe dope or thread tape is needed on these connections -- the fittings seal with metal-to-metal contact backed by internal O-rings or seat seals.
Hose assembly is rated to 350 PSI maximum working pressure, well above typical LP cylinder vapor pressure.
Integrated excess-flow valve automatically restricts flow if a downstream break or rupture is detected.
Built-in thermal protection device shuts off flow if the hose assembly is exposed to high heat or fire conditions.
Hand-tightens to standard QCC/Type 1 propane cylinders -- no wrench needed at the cylinder end. Left-hand thread.
The E18INPT is designed for the cylinder-side connection in a typical RV dual-cylinder propane setup. It runs from the QCC valve on a 20 lb or 30 lb DOT cylinder to the inlet port on a two-stage automatic changeover regulator or a standard two-stage regulator. Most RV rigs use two of these pigtails -- one per cylinder -- both feeding into the regulator's dual inlets.
The QCC (Quick Closing Coupling) Type 1 connection replaced the older POL (Prest-O-Lite) fitting as the standard for consumer propane cylinders in the US. It uses a right-hand-threaded, internally threaded ACME collar that hand-tightens over the cylinder valve outlet. The valve opens automatically when the coupling is tightened and closes when it is loosened -- making cylinder swaps safer and easier than the old POL system. If your cylinders were manufactured after 1998, they almost certainly have Type 1 QCC valves. POL cylinders require a different hose.
After connecting the pigtail, always perform a soap-solution leak test at both fittings before lighting any appliances. Apply leak-detection solution or dish soap mixed with water to each connection and watch for bubbles. Do not use an open flame to check for leaks. Replace the hose immediately if any cracking, abrasion, or damage to the hose cover is visible.
Propane hoses should be inspected before each camping season and replaced every 5 to 10 years, or immediately if the outer cover shows cracking, cuts, abrasion, or heat damage. If your regulator shows signs of freeze-up, ice, or flow problems, inspect the pigtail as well -- a partially blocked or damaged hose can restrict flow to the point where appliances do not perform correctly.
The E18INPT is a direct replacement for any 18-inch RV pigtail hose with Type 1 ACME on the cylinder end and 1/4-inch inverted male flare on the regulator end. Check your existing hose label or the regulator inlet fitting to confirm the 1/4-inch inverted flare connection before ordering.