Since 1968, Industrial Propane Service, Inc. (IPS) has offered various solutions to the propane industry. As a third-generation family-run business, we are a full-line distributor and wholesaler of propane equipment and heating and hearth products. We work hard to provide quality products at a fair price, focusing on building and servicing bobtail propane trucks to meet our customer’s needs.
A bobtail propane truck consists of a chassis and a specialized storage tank that can pump over 1,000 gallons of LPG at each stop. These bulk delivery vehicles are available in many different configurations, and several factors play into the decision-making process of purchasing a new bobtail propane truck.
Characteristics of Bobtail Trucks
Regardless of size, all bobtail trucks perform the same function of delivering propane. The driver goes to a bulk storage facility to fill the tank with propane and delivers it to customers for domestic tank use. A bobtail propane tank can provide as much as 1,000 gallons or more of LPG before needing to refuel again at another bulk storage location.
Each bobtail propane truck offers unique characteristics based on the model and design type.
Open Deck
This three-piece design features a deck and fenders made of heavy-duty 3/16″ bright diamond plate aluminum, 10ga stainless steel, or smooth aluminum. The lightweight fenders create less stress on the deck and carry hidden front mounting brackets. The Betts LED light modules are protected to prevent unintentional damage.
An open deck configuration has 3/8″ plates welded under the meter and a hose reel for increased strength and support. Many drivers prefer the traditional open deck design because of the easy access to onboard propane delivery equipment.
Closed Deck
A closed deck bobtail propane truck has a steel enclosure sitting on top of stainless steel deck plating. The fenders are also stainless steel, and the inside of the truck has a SpeedLiner® bed coating. There is an option for a lightweight overhead door or side-by-side doors and an interior light. This configuration is low maintenance and provides added protection from inclement weather and rough terrain.
Clear Vision Enclosure
Exclusive to IPS are our Clear Vision Enclosures. As most traditional closed decks are 96″ wide, a Clear Vision Enclosure is only 43 ½” wide, allowing for better visibility and reduced blind spots. The configuration can incorporate pull-away protection, and the fill hose connection is ergonomically correct.
The construction of the Clear Vision Enclosure is both durable and lightweight. This exclusive design offers greater operator visibility behind the vehicle with protection from harsh outdoor elements and a reduced risk of leakage and corrosion.
Bobtail Truck Operations with IPS
Bobtail propane trucks, while extremely durable, require regular maintenance to continue operating at peak performance. IPS has the resources to provide time-saving maintenance, testing, and inspection at an affordable price. Our professional services include:
- V & K Inspection
- Hydrotesting
- Internal Inspection
- Wet Mags
- DOT Inspection
- Meter Calibration
- Pump Repair
- Meter Repair
Our convenient Bobtail On-Site Service (BOSS) team can perform bobtail propane truck maintenance at your location. Our maintenance services include:
- Bobtail V & K Inspection
- Bobtail Meter Calibration
- Minor Propane Equipment Repairs
- Dispenser Meter Calibration
- Dispenser Repair
IPS also sells and services a vast range of new heavy-duty bobtail propane trucks with fast turnaround times and financing available. We can configure your customized truck with a Freightliner, International, Kenworth, or Peterbilt chassis. Options are available for deck and fender, piping, tanks, valves, air, and electrical controls. IPS trucks are not only reliable but designed for durability and safety.
Bobtail Equipment
IPS provides everything you need for safe and efficient propane delivery. Our bobtail equipment includes:
- Tank Options: 3,000 / 3,200 / 3,499 / 5,000 gallon tanks with other options available upon request.
- Deck and Fenders: Open / Closed / Clear Vision Enclosure with option of aluminum, steel, or stainless steel materials.
- Pump: 3″ Blackmer
- Meter: Liquid Controls / Neptune
- Valves and Safety: RegO
- Hose Reel: Hannay / Marshall Excelsior
- Delivery Hose: Dayco / Thermoid / Fairview in 125 foot or 150 foot lengths
- Remote Shut-Down System: Base Engineering
- Lights: Betts
- Tool Box: 18 x 18 x 36 Aluminum (other options available)
- Meter Cover: Poly / Aluminum / Stainless Steel
- Paint: Single or two-tone tank colors
- Vinyl Logo: IPS can design a logo or use any artwork supplied.
Considerations When Buying Bobtail Propane Trucks
When purchasing a bobtail propane truck, there are many key factors to consider. One of the biggest factors to consider is the tank size. It’s important to determine the scope of your business while looking at regular delivery routes and scheduling practices.
Residential and commercial deliveries have different demands and require unique equipment to get the job done. Bobtail propane tanks used for filling cylinders on-site or for splash filling require specialized valves and piping. A tank with a capacity larger than 3,200 gallons requires a lift axle for safe operation. Any tank with a capacity larger than 3,499 gallons needs to utilize a tandem axle chassis. Bobtail propane trucks can have remote shutdown systems for hose reel controls and meter read-out, providing additional convenience for the operator.
The geographic location of the delivery route is also an important consideration. For instance, small tanks typically perform better in mountainous areas. Building a truck to meet the demands of the driving conditions in your environment creates a safer and better performing vehicle.
Bobtail Propane Truck Solutions from IPS
Specialized bobtail propane trucks play a critical role in delivering propane to various end-users, so it’s important to work with an experienced provider to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective solutions. With over 50 years of experience in the propane industry, IPS has the necessary skills to handle all your propane needs.
Our expert team and quality products ensure you have the best propane solution available. We carry products from some of the most reputable propane brands, and we can work with you to determine the ideal options for your needs.
Contact us today to learn more about our bobtail truck solutions and see how IPS can help with your propane needs.