Here we have oil, propane and wood. Propane is $1 per gallon less than oil but oil is 40,000 btu more per gallon more than LP. The wood is free minus the tools needed to process. Aged out of the process except for small stuff. Decided against pellets' and heat pumps for now so will reevaluate...
What one of the most egregious problems with some of the homeless is the filth and trash build up in homeless camps. Perhaps there would be less objection to said camps if they showed some attempt to take some care.
Non tapered pipe connectors cannot be used with gas. The coupling that the OP was asking about is also known as a thread protector or chase coupling. Mechanically they will connect two pieces of black iron pipe together.
First off, gas valves such as shown need a special grease, second the valve shown if over tightened will distort and leak. The threaded portion is too close to the barrel. Have seen many of these leak. Also some areas disallow anyone other than a licensed person to turn on a gas meter.
If there is one constant here it`s that we will jump in to help anyone with a question. Of course we have the occasional crank but they are quickly dealt with. Awaiting your contributions.
Time to reevaluate the HHR, if it seems worth rebuilding perhaps an inexpensive parts car. Throwing new electronic parts at it could be expensive. That or as suggested above take it to a shop with a cap on how much he`s willing to spend on this heartbreaker.