Cracked MLT!

Holmesbrewer · 04-06-2009, 10:22 PM

I am guessing I have made 6 mashes in this "new" rubbermaid 5 gallon MLT and today, when I put in my strike water, it started leaking.
I dumped the water and took everything apart only to find hair cracks around the spigot hole.
I havent used any tools to tighten this, but it cracked none the less.
I torqued down all the nuts to try to mend it for now. It helped, but I get a drip every 15 seconds. Doubt it will amount to much over a 60 minute mash, BUT!
Any suggestions for a repair that wont effect the wort? I have liquid electrical tape, caulk and all kinds of stuff, but I am concerned about the mal-effects.

**BargainFittings** · 04-06-2009, 10:47 PM

a wider washer to spread the load will help.

How wide do the cracks extend from the hole?

Holmesbrewer · 04-07-2009, 12:33 AM

1/2 to 3/4" away from hole.

**Donner** · 04-07-2009, 02:18 AM

jb weld the holes and see if it holds. I think it'd still be food grade when exposed to hot water. As others have said, you might try a bigger washer, as well.

**Homercidal** · 04-08-2009, 03:35 PM

I'd dry it out and use silicone to seal it and maybe silicone a large diameter washer if you can. Let it cure for several days and then try it with some hot water.