Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P Pigtail Review

One Month Later: Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P 24in Pigtail Stainless Steel Review

The Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P 24in Pigtail Stainless Steel is a seemingly simple product: a 24-inch stainless steel hose designed to connect a propane tank to a regulator. However, within that simple design lies a critical component for safety and reliability, especially for RVers, campers, and anyone using propane for heating or cooking. The Marshall Excelsior promises both durability and safety features, which immediately caught my attention.

My old rubber pigtail had started showing signs of cracking and wear, a common problem with age and exposure to the elements. I needed a replacement that I could trust, and stainless steel seemed like the obvious upgrade for longevity and resistance to propane permeation. Having dealt with propane leaks in the past (thankfully minor), safety was also a paramount concern.

Upon unboxing, the Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P felt solid and well-constructed. The stainless steel braiding was tight and consistent, and the brass fittings appeared robust and precisely machined. It was a noticeable step up in quality compared to the rubber pigtail I was replacing.

I considered a cheaper rubber hose option, and even a slightly longer stainless steel pigtail from another manufacturer. However, the Marshall Excelsior brand’s reputation for quality and the included excess flow safety shut-off were the deciding factors. I was also impressed with the high BTU/H ratings.

My first impression was a feeling of relief. I was excited to install it and gain peace of mind knowing I had a safer and more durable propane connection.

Real-World Testing: Putting Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P 24in Pigtail Stainless Steel to the Test

First Use Experience

My primary testing ground for the Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P was my travel trailer, which serves as my home away from home during extended camping trips. I installed the pigtail connecting my propane tank to the regulator that feeds my stove, water heater, and furnace. Installation was straightforward, the fittings were clean and easily sealed.

I used the trailer in various conditions, from sunny days to rainy evenings with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 80°F. The pigtail performed flawlessly, maintaining a consistent propane flow to all appliances. No leaks, no hissing, just reliable performance.

The Marshall Excelsior pigtail was easy to install with standard tools (two wrenches). I did not need to use any thread sealant and was able to have a leak-free connection on the first try. I especially appreciated the manageable length of 24 inches.

I was pleasantly surprised at how quiet the propane system became after installation. The old rubber hose transmitted more vibration and noise; the stainless steel seemed to dampen it, providing a slightly quieter camping experience.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a month of continuous use and several camping trips, the Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of wear and tear, and the stainless steel remains corrosion-free. I have inspected the connections regularly and still detect no leaks or issues.

The pigtail still looks as good as new despite exposure to sun, rain, and the occasional splash of mud. The brass fittings have maintained their shine. Maintenance is a breeze. A quick wipe with a damp cloth keeps it clean.

This stainless steel pigtail significantly outperforms the rubber hoses I’ve used in the past. The peace of mind knowing I have a durable and safe propane connection is worth the investment. The rubber hoses aged quickly and were always a source of concern.

Breaking Down the Features of Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P 24in Pigtail Stainless Steel

Specifications

• The Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P 24in Pigtail Stainless Steel is a 24-inch long, flexible hose designed to connect a propane tank to a propane regulator. The 24-inch length provides enough flexibility without being excessive.
• It features a 1/4″ Inv. Flare fitting on one end for connection to the propane tank and a 1/4″ MPT (Male Pipe Thread) fitting on the other for connection to the regulator. The industry-standard fittings ensure compatibility with most propane systems.
• The hose is constructed from stainless steel braiding, offering superior durability and resistance to corrosion, permeation, and physical damage. Stainless steel is essential for long-term reliability in harsh environments.
• It boasts a standard BTU/H rating of 200,000 and a high flow rate of 400,000 BTU/H. These ratings are sufficient for most RV and camping applications, supporting multiple propane appliances simultaneously.
• The inclusion of an excess flow safety shut-off is a critical safety feature that automatically restricts propane flow in case of a leak or hose rupture. This feature is a significant upgrade compared to hoses without this safety measure.

Performance & Functionality

The Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P 24in Pigtail Stainless Steel performs its primary function – delivering propane safely and reliably – exceptionally well. The high flow rate ensures that all appliances receive adequate propane even when running simultaneously. There have been zero performance issues.

The strength of this product lies in its reliability and safety features. The only improvement might be the inclusion of a pressure gauge to monitor tank levels, although this would add to the cost. It exceeds expectations in terms of build quality and peace of mind.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The stainless steel braiding feels robust, and the brass fittings are precisely machined. The hose is flexible enough for easy installation, but rigid enough to resist kinking.

The Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P is straightforward to use. The standard fittings require no special tools for installation, and the excess flow safety shut-off is a passive safety feature that requires no user intervention. There is no learning curve; it is simple to install and forget.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its stainless steel construction, the Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P should last for many years, even with regular exposure to the elements. The stainless steel resists corrosion, and the braiding protects the hose from abrasion and physical damage. Routine visual inspections and occasional cleaning are all that’s needed to maintain it.

Maintenance is minimal. Just a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris is sufficient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P 24in Pigtail Stainless Steel is a self-contained unit and does not require any additional accessories for basic functionality. However, users may choose to add a propane tank gauge or a leak detector for added safety and convenience. It is compatible with standard propane regulators and tanks.

Pros and Cons of Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P 24in Pigtail Stainless Steel

Who Should Buy Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P 24in Pigtail Stainless Steel?

Perfect for RV owners, campers, tailgaters, and anyone who relies on propane for cooking, heating, or other applications. It is also ideal for preppers and survivalists who need a reliable and safe propane connection for emergency preparedness. Anyone who values safety and durability in their propane system should consider this pigtail.

Those on a very tight budget might opt for a cheaper rubber hose, but they should be aware of the increased risk of leaks and the shorter lifespan. Consumers happy with regular replacement of wear items to save on costs.

A propane tank gauge would be a useful addition, although not strictly necessary.

Conclusion on Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P 24in Pigtail Stainless Steel

The Marshall Excelsior MER425SS-24P 24in Pigtail Stainless Steel is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a safe, reliable, and durable propane connection. The price is justified by the superior build quality, safety features, and long lifespan.

I wholeheartedly recommend it. The peace of mind knowing that my propane system is safe and reliable is worth every penny. Upgrade your propane connection today and experience the difference!