can you use the same parts for the rectangle shaped coolers?
Yes, for the most part. You may have to use a different length of nipple and a different number of washers for a good fit. You will also have to ensure that the seal from the cooler's original spigot fits the DIY bulkhead.
well i tried this w/ my rectangle 58 quart. first, the ball valve, actually ends up w/ part of it inside the cooler, because the nipple seems too short for my cooler. I drip tested it, and it leaked, since i had no room for a washer in between the rubber gasket and the barb adaptor, so there wasnt enough of a seal. I managed to squeeze a washer in there, but it of course made the ball valve go deeper in the cooler...but now no drip.. i mean its functional as it is, and i can work the valve..but should i get a longer nipple?
Also, they didnt have stainless steel fender washers, only zinc coated..is that ok and safe to use?
__________________
-=Clay=-
Up next: Cream Stout
Primary: Nut Brown Ale
I would be tempted to get a longer nipple. You might need a couple/few washers for spacers, so pick those up too. They also add some needed stability to the ball valve.
Regarding the washer inside the cooler, unfortunately you can't use zinc plated. You need stainless steel, or possibly nylon. The non-SS metal washers, especially the plated ones, will corrode in the mash tun because the mash is acidic. The metals that end up in your beer will cause off-flavours. The SS washers seem to be difficult for some to find, so search this thread for some good sources (Fastenal seems to be a good one in the US; Home Depot seems to carry them up here in Canada).
I'm finally embarking on a 3 gallon AG setup with a Bubba Keg. I have most of the parts here except for an inner seal/gasket, SS washer, and some regular washers for the outside. I'm going to use some Waterweld by JB Weld for inside the wall of the cooler to make for a snug fit for the nipple. I also thought about using this product instead of a rubber seal between the inside washer and cooler wall. What do you guys think, have you used this product before? I contacted the manufacturer to see if its save for beverage contact up to 170 degrees and they said, "Yes, it is non toxic and can withstand the temperature."
Last edited by Anchors_Team; 08-23-2008 at 05:48 PM.
I went to Lowes last night to get the materials to do this conversion. Now, I know this is going to sound stupid, but for the 5/8" stainless steel fender washer is the 5/8" the ID or OD? I have found a 5/8" stainless steel washer, but the OD is listed at 2" and this sounds a bit large. For the other three 5/8" washers what should the (I'm guessing) OD be?
Linear Mode
