Collar Build, In Process Pics, Opinions?

So I started my build this weekend, I have been reading a bunch of threads on here for ideas and suggestions. So far the build has gone really well. I have everything cut and built. All I have left is to put weather stripping on the bottom of the collar, put in insulation, drill holes for the fan and temp sensor, and paint/stain. So the last one is where I am looking for opinions. Originally I was dead set on painting the collar with chalkboard paint so I could write what homebrews where in and just have some fun with it. After building the collar now though I love the color of the poplar and kinda want to stain it. I have read that poplar is hard to stain though so I am looking for opinions Location will be in the garage. Below are some pics of my build up to this point.

First thing, upgrade your Miter Saw


Then I built the base, sealed all corners with Guerrilla Glue


Then I ran some HVAC Duct tape on the top and bottoms, I wanted smooth surfaces to help get a better seals on the weather strips.


Added the poplar front pieces, first test fit


Inside look, it was a super tight fit, was really happy with that


Shanks added (test only, still have to decide on stain or chalkboard)

Awesome, super clean build. This is essentially the exact same build I'm planning, but with a 5.0 CF freezer and taps on the opposite side. I'm a big fan of the cool factor of chalkboard paint (or maybe only I think it's cool ). Definitely going to pick up some HVAC tape to get things sealed tight. Any plan on adding foam insulation along the collar? I've heard horror stories of stratification and condensation issues with wood collars w/o out (don't know how much truth there is to them yet).

jlachesk said:

Awesome, super clean build. This is essentially the exact same build I'm planning, but with a 5.0 CF freezer and taps on the opposite side. I'm a big fan of the cool factor of chalkboard paint (or maybe only I think it's cool ). Definitely going to pick up some HVAC tape to get things sealed tight. Any plan on adding foam insulation along the collar? I've heard horror stories of stratification and condensation issues with wood collars w/o out (don't know how much truth there is to them yet).

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Thanks! Yeah I bought some of that pink foam board insulation from Home Depot. It is 1" thick and is R5 rated. I plan on using that and a fan to circulate air. And I think the chalkboard paint is cool too, im conflicted for either going cool factor (chalkboard paint) or classier adult (stain) lol.

Nice vette! or am I wrong?

Looking good

Portah said:

Nice vette! or am I wrong?

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You got the sports car right Its my old 1990 300zx TT, replacing the injectors and other misc things at the moment. I skipped working on it this weekend to build the collar.

Poplar is tough to stain as it will usually come out blotchy, but it can be done with good results.

Best would either be a dye or gel stain. I've had decent success with either, pick some up and test on some scraps to find what you like.

Markd27 said:

Poplar is tough to stain as it will usually come out blotchy, but it can be done with good results.

Best would either be a dye or gel stain. I've had decent success with either, pick some up and test on some scraps to find what you like.

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Thanks for the reply, that was what I was reading as well. I read it paints really well though. Decisions decisions.....

Well I tried to stain the poplar and we couldn't get anything to look very good (on scrap pieces) so I just decided to use chalkboard paint and make my life a little easier. All I have to do now is figure out how I want to seal the hole my temp probe and fan lines are coming through, I would like something like a grommet so I dont have to pull crap out (like silicone) if I change my mind on something. My batch of beer should be ready next week, so hopefully I will start using the keezer then =)


007 by grendelrt, on Flickr



006 by grendelrt, on Flickr



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And think I am done. Put a fan in and built a little shelf to hold the kegs off the ground. Super fun little project, as soon as my beer is done cold crashing its kegging time!


001 by grendelrt, on Flickr