Problems connecting 20lbs CO2 Tank to regulator... help?

[reefphish]

Does anybody else use a 20lbs C02 tank? (I'm setting up a retrofitted fluval filter as a calcium reactor)

I purchased from saltwater connection a while ago.. but just getting around to connecting now...

problem is the regulator vwont/cant screw onto the tank because of the protective tank cowling/handle

... do extensions exist?.. do I need to purchase a hose? what has worked out well?

any input appreciated!