Gas regulators/bottles

Yesterday afternoon, we had planned to give the new barbecue a leak test and then its maiden run, however after digging the gas bottles out from behind the shed, the regulator wouldn't fit!

The gas bottles are butane (Handy Gas if it makes any difference), which fitted the old barbecue whereas the regulator on the new barbecue states that is is a Type 370 propane one.

Now, I must admit that I was always under the impression that the two were interchangeable, with the main differences being that butane burned a bit hotter but propane was the only one that would work in freezing temperatures, so I was surprised to hit this wee hurdle - the question now is, am I going to have to look for a specific type of propane cylinder to fit this barbecue, and is it just a case of swapping a butane cylinder for a propane one, or am I going to have to fork out a small fortune on a propane one with bottle deposit?

 

I can, but the regulator on the old barbecue is old - well over 10 years, and that amongst other things was the spur for getting a new barbie - - is it possible that the old bottles/regulator are now outdated?

 

I'll pop one of the bottles I have currently into the car and take it to my local place and see if they will swap for one of the right type; can't really afford to buy two at the same time.

 

I have just done a bit of digging, and it appears that my local hardware shop just around the corner stock the relevant gas bottles and regulators so I will pop along and speak to them - they are a proper family business and are always first class when it comes to advice and service, so I am sure they will keep me right.

Thanks all