I do a somewhat bastardized kettle sour with my setup. I mash as I normally would then I collect the runnings in a old better bottle filling as close to the top as possible. I use a C02 stone to scrub as much of the residual oxygen as possible, and then place an airlock on top. Once that is...
The 1.5 inch triclover fitting will accommodate your element just fine. I use 5500w ripple elements with no issue. On your second question i'm pretty sure that does not include the bulkhead.
If you do decide to do a bottom drain, I highly recommend getting one of these keg stackers. I have one for my bottom drain mashtun and it works great.
Awesome! I'm finishing up my 3 element RIMS system. Just need to install the element in my HLT, and figure out a way to mount my RIMS tube. Then I should be ready for its maiden voyage.
I don't know of I would put much trust in a product because he has a brick and mortor location. I seriously doubt if a high gravity controller burnt down your house that his insurance would pick up the bill. Its not like his controller is UL certified or anything, and neither is anyone else's...
I'm in the process of finishing up my electric build. Is there any other electric Okie brewers out there? I'm looking for some folks to share electric tips and tricks with.