Tongue Systems Overview

Tongue Systems Overview

The trailer tongue is one of the most important mechanical zones in the entire build.
It houses the dual propane tanks, supports the dedicated grill and house propane systems, and now serves as the mounting location for the HVAC condenser using the Stromberg Carlson CC‑255 Trailer Tray.
This page provides a complete overview of all tongue-mounted systems and how they integrate with the rest of the trailer.

Purpose of the Tongue Area

The tongue is designed as a compact, high‑function mechanical platform.
By relocating the HVAC condenser to the tongue and separating the propane system into two independent subsystems, the tongue now supports:

  • Dual propane tanks (Tank 1: house system, Tank 2: grill-only)
  • Propane regulators and supply lines
  • HVAC condenser mounted above the tanks
  • Stromberg Carlson CC‑255 Trailer Tray as the mounting structure
  • Clear airflow paths for condenser performance
  • Service access for propane, electrical, and HVAC components

System Components on the Tongue

1. Dual Propane Tanks

  • Tank 1 (Driver Side): Dedicated to the house propane system.
  • Tank 2 (Passenger Side): Dedicated solely to the grill quick‑connect.
  • Mounted in standard A‑frame brackets with steel hold‑downs.
  • Clear labeling recommended: “House” and “Grill”.

2. Propane Regulators & Lines

  • House Regulator: Mounted near Tank 1, feeding the main propane line.
  • Grill Regulator: Mounted near Tank 2, feeding the passenger‑side quick‑connect.
  • Routing: Lines run along the frame with abrasion protection and shutoff valves.

3. HVAC Condenser (Tongue-Mounted)

The HVAC condenser is mounted above the propane tanks using the Stromberg Carlson CC‑255 Trailer Tray, originally designed as a generator/cargo platform.
This location provides excellent airflow, keeps heat out of the garage, and frees up interior space.

  • Mounting Height: Adjustable to clear propane tanks and tank covers.
  • Airflow: Open front and sides ensure proper condenser performance.
  • Vibration Control: Rubber isolation pads recommended.
  • Service Access: Easy access from the front of the trailer.

4. Stromberg Carlson CC‑255 Trailer Tray

The CC‑255 tray provides a stable, adjustable platform for the condenser.
It clamps to the A‑frame and supports up to 300 lbs, making it ideal for HVAC equipment.

  • Adjustable width: Fits A‑frames from 12″ to 52″.
  • Adjustable height: Allows clearance above propane tanks.
  • Mesh platform: Provides mounting points and airflow.
  • Steel construction: Designed for outdoor equipment.

Tongue Systems Layout (ASCII Overview)

Front of Trailer
┌───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│                     HVAC Condenser (Mounted on Tray)          │
│                 ┌───────────────────────────────────────┐     │
│                 │   Stromberg Carlson CC‑255 Tray       │     │
│                 └───────────────────────────────────────┘     │
│                                                               │
│   [ Tank 1 - House System ]     [ Tank 2 - Grill Only ]       │
│            │                               │                  │
│            ▼                               ▼                  │
│     House Regulator                 Grill Regulator            │
│            │                               │                  │
│   Main House Line                 Grill Quick-Connect Line     │
└───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

Integration With Other Systems

  • Propane: Tank 1 feeds the house system; Tank 2 feeds the grill.
  • HVAC: Condenser mounted on the tray; lines routed to interior air handler.
  • Electrical: Condenser receives power via protected tongue‑to‑garage routing.
  • Garage Systems: Freed from condenser heat and equipment.

Benefits of the Tongue-Mounted Configuration

  • Improved airflow for the condenser.
  • Reduced interior heat load in the garage.
  • Cleaner mechanical layout inside the trailer.
  • Easy service access for propane and HVAC components.
  • Efficient use of exterior space without extending the trailer footprint.

Related Pages

How This Page Will Evolve

As the build progresses, this page will be updated with final condenser mounting photos, propane line routing details, electrical connections, and any additional tongue-mounted components.
The tongue will remain a compact, high‑function mechanical zone that supports the core systems of the trailer.