Cooler fittings

[HoppyMcHopster]

Converting a rubermaid cooler into a MLT. I've decided to go with a false bottom and 1/2" ballvalve (Good decision over 3/8" valve?) I've noticed that all false bottoms come with a 3/8" elbow so I'm wondering what I would need to connect the 3/8" elbow? Would I need a 1/2" to 3/8" converter that would connect to a 3/8" barb and from there some tubing to connect to the elbow? Do I need a bulkhead?

Thanks

 

[E-Mursed]

I did the same set up. Bargainfittings.com sells a great bulkhead that works perfectly. I have 3/8 to 3/8 inside between the bulkhead barb and false bottom connected with hi-temp silicon tubing. On my ball valve I have a 1/2 inch barb - makes 3/8 tubing snug fit.

 

[HoppyMcHopster]

I did the same set up. Bargainfittings.com sells a great bulkhead that works perfectly. I have 3/8 to 3/8 inside between the bulkhead barb and false bottom connected with hi-temp silicon tubing. On my ball valve I have a 1/2 inch barb - makes 3/8 tubing snug fit.

What do you have connecting the 3/8" barb and the nipple that goes through the cooler? That nipple is 1/2" right?

 

[E-Mursed]

I bought the bulkhead - 1/2 inch ball valve outside with 1/2 inch barb. Inside I have a 1/2 to 3/8 barb connected to coupler - thermal tubing - 3/8 barb on false bottom elbow.

 

[HoppyMcHopster]

I bought the bulkhead - 1/2 inch ball valve outside with 1/2 inch barb. Inside I have a 1/2 to 3/8 barb connected to coupler - thermal tubing - 3/8 barb on false bottom elbow.

Thanks for you help. Was this the exact product your purchased? http://www.bargainfittings.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=85

With this one you do NOT need to drill? Is it normal to have 3/8" tubing inside but 1/2" on the outside?

 

[E-Mursed]

Yep...no drilling needed. Fits nice and snug.

All my fittings are stainless.

Normal is what works for you. I like the tight fig of a 3/8 ID on a 1/2 barb.

 

[HoppyMcHopster]

Has anyone tried this? http://www.brewershardware.com/Weldless-Bulkhead-1-2-MPT-X-1-2-FPT.html

I like that you don't need a coupler in this case.