Any drawbacks to the Bayou Classic SQ-14?

[TeufelBrew]

Love my SQ-14. Holds my 15 gallon Polarware pot with ease, and I use a March pump for all liquid transfers, so height isn't an issue. Had some issues with wind and heating up the surface below the stand, so I used some leftover aluminum flashing and made a quick head shield that also nixed most wind issues.

Plastic clamps used to hold the aluminum in place while I put in self tapping machine screws.

Have done 20 gallon brew days with consecutive 10 gallon batches through the system, and only needed the old 7 gallon pot and stand to heat strike and sparge water.

 

[homebrewer_99]

Whisky: I was at Lowe's today and did not see anything labeled "Thimble Wall Adapter". You wouldn't happen to have the receipt and look up the SKU for me, would you? You said it's 6", I'm guessing diameter...how tall is it?

The salesperson hadn't even heard of one before...I wish I had the pic with me at the time.

I just got home and went to Lowes.com and they don't have one either...

I have to go back to "the city" on Monday so I'll drop back in to see what they have compared to what your pictures are in your gallery.

 

[scone]

+1 I'd love to buy one of those too.

And also, I don't suppose anyone knows the size of bolt that holds the "airflow adjuster" on the burner? My SQ14 didn't come with any...

 

[cincybrewer]

I tried to do some research before asking this question and this was the best thread I could find, so I apologize if this has been discussed before. I got an SQ14 for Christmas and took it out of the box from Amazon today to put it all together and it appears it is missing a bolt/screw to attach the burner to the crossbar. It appears that this bolt would be the only thing that holds the burner to the stand and it didn't come with it in the box.

Also a couple things that I didn't know if it was normal or not: the first is the stand, the burner, and the regulator all come in separate packaging in the box. I'd assume this was normal but wasn't sure. Also, the stand doesn't have any Bayou Classic labeling on it like I see in all the pictures. This isn't a big deal to me as I'm sure it will just burn off but I'm wondering if maybe I got some knockoff.

Anyone have any similar issues/experiences with this burner? Thanks.

 

[Catt22]

I tried to do some research before asking this question and this was the best thread I could find, so I apologize if this has been discussed before. I got an SQ14 for Christmas and took it out of the box from Amazon today to put it all together and it appears it is missing a bolt/screw to attach the burner to the crossbar. It appears that this bolt would be the only thing that holds the burner to the stand and it didn't come with it in the box.

Also a couple things that I didn't know if it was normal or not: the first is the stand, the burner, and the regulator all come in separate packaging in the box. I'd assume this was normal but wasn't sure. Also, the stand doesn't have any Bayou Classic labeling on it like I see in all the pictures. This isn't a big deal to me as I'm sure it will just burn off but I'm wondering if maybe I got some knockoff.

Anyone have any similar issues/experiences with this burner? Thanks.

Yes, the single bolt is the only thing that holds the burner to the stand. You can buy a replacement at any hardware store for about 20 cents or so. I think it's 1/4 X 20 thread size. If in doubt, take the burner with you to the store.

IIRC, the Bayou Classic label is actually a metal tag held in place with two small rivets. The burner will function just fine without it, but it does raise some suspicion about the authenticity of the unit. Where did you buy it?

The regulators often come in a separate box packed inside the larger box along with the burner. Nothing to be alarmed about there.

Show us a pic and we can go from there if you'd like.

 

[zoomer67]

I just checked mine and:
-Yes, there is just that one bolt, you should have no issues getting it locally.
-Mine has the tag.

The tag deal is suspicious, but I wouldn't worry too much, as long as it works, some things about mine that are worth pointing out are:
-it regulates pretty good over a fairly wide range (lower flame to higher-more intense), although I'll admit the burner looks a little on the cheap side, although I think they are all like that (it looks like it has a cheap silver shinny paint -which hasn't come off yet-.
-I have done 10 Gal. batches without issues, although the stand will wobble a bit if you drag it around, so although the stand is sturdy I wouldn't go as far as to say it is super strong.

Hope this helps...happy new year!

 

[Catt22]

IMO, the SQ-14 stand is super strong. I can safely and securely stand on top of it with a full mug of beer in each hand. It will easily support a full 15 gallon kettle and more.

 

[cincybrewer]

Here are some pictures that help. This is basically all that came with it. No Bayou labels or anything. I can get a screw but it leaves me a bit suspicious. I'll have to figure out what Amazon vendor it came from and give them a call since this was given to me as a gift.

http://picasaweb.google.com/scooter.lyons/Beer#5556129421224484386

http://picasaweb.google.com/scooter.lyons/Beer#5556129630723135874

 

[Catt22]

Here are some pictures that help. This is basically all that came with it. No Bayou labels or anything. I can get a screw but it leaves me a bit suspicious. I'll have to figure out what Amazon vendor it came from and give them a call since this was given to me as a gift.

http://picasaweb.google.com/scooter.lyons/Beer#5556129421224484386

http://picasaweb.google.com/scooter.lyons/Beer#5556129630723135874

That appears to be the genuine article. If not, it's a damn good copy. It has the correct burner and the preferred adjustable regulator with the stainless steel clad gas supply line. Be happy. You have a good one.

I think that it may actually be a refurbished unit. The flat black paint is not original. They are usually painted in gloss black. The missing name tag is another hint. The tag was likely removed when it was painted, but I don't see any rivet holes either which makes me a little suspicious.

I would not be at all concerned. I think you have a good burner there whether or not it is absolutely OEM.

 

[masonsjax]

I used a metal coat hanger to wire the end of the burner to the edge of the frame just to make it a little more sturdy. To me the single tiny screw doesn't inspire much confidence. Otherwise, it's a great burner. It's quiet, plenty of output, and very easy on gas.

 

[Catt22]

I used a metal coat hanger to wire the end of the burner to the edge of the frame just to make it a little more sturdy. To me the single tiny screw doesn't inspire much confidence. Otherwise, it's a great burner. It's quiet, plenty of output, and very easy on gas.

The 1/4" bolt is much stronger than you may think. If you really want some added security, use a grade 5 or grade 8 bolt. Those suckers are incredibly strong. It's not like the burner is trying to escape or anything. There's very little stress on the bolt under nermal circumstances.

 

[masonsjax]

I'm not afraid of the bolt breaking. The cross member it's bolted through isn't super sturdy and moving the regulator and hose around when setting up or cleaning up wobbles the whole burner section, which I was afraid would loosen the bolt, or bend the support. Wiring it with a hanger keeps it in place permanently.

 

[Catt22]

I'm not afraid of the bolt breaking. The cross member it's bolted through isn't super sturdy and moving the regulator and hose around when setting up or cleaning up wobbles the whole burner section, which I was afraid would loosen the bolt, or bend the support. Wiring it with a hanger keeps it in place permanently.

That cross member is solid steel. It would take a lot of abuse to bend or break it IMO. Check to be sure the mounting bolt is tight. That should eliminate any wobbling. I have complete confidence in the stability of my burner.

 

[Catt22]

OMG! It's not a big deal, it's just more sturdy with 2 mounting points rather than 1. It stays in place much better than it did before. Why must everyone argue? I'm just contributing a simple improvement that cost me nothing and I'm getting flamed for it?

Relax! No one is flaming you. IMO, you are over reacting. My only point was that your concern seemed to be unwarranted. I was not intending to start a big argument about such a trivial thing. Are you that thin skinned?

 

[masonsjax]

Ok, apologies if I over reacted, I'm not thin skinned at all, maybe I just need a beer.

I just saw a small drawback when I got my burner (what the thread was asking), but noted that it was very easily improved upon. I'm just confused why people would argue with a free improvement, even if it is slight.

 

[weirdboy]

Where did you get that cart? Is that painter's scaffolding?

 

[Catt22]

Ok, apologies if I over reacted, I'm not thin skinned at all, maybe I just need a beer.

I just saw a small drawback when I got my burner (what the thread was asking), but noted that it was very easily improved upon. I'm just confused why people would argue with a free improvement, even if it is slight.

No apology required and nothing at all wrong with making the equipment more secure. Sorry if I came off too bluntly. My people skills leave a lot to be desired. My animal skills, however, are honed to a keen edge.

 

[cincybrewer]

Thanks for the answers everyone. I'm going to contact the vendor to make sure but probably just go to HD to get a screw.

 

[cincybrewer]

wow, so I call Bayou Classic to ask them about the missing screw even though it was bought off Amazon and someone immediately answered the phone (no automated touch pad), told him I was missing the screw and then he just asked for my address and told me the screw would be on it's way shortly. Talk about great customer service. I know I could have gone to HD or Lowes and bought a screw but thought I'd give them a cal anyway and never thought they would just without question send me the missing screw (even though the screws are very cheap).

Just thought I'd let you guys know so if you buy one of these you know you'll get good customer service.

 

[Catt22]

wow, so I call Bayou Classic to ask them about the missing screw even though it was bought off Amazon and someone immediately answered the phone (no automated touch pad), told him I was missing the screw and then he just asked for my address and told me the screw would be on it's way shortly. Talk about great customer service. I know I could have gone to HD or Lowes and bought a screw but thought I'd give them a cal anyway and never thought they would just without question send me the missing screw (even though the screws are very cheap).

Just thought I'd let you guys know so if you buy one of these you know you'll get good customer service.

You can now consider yourself screwed.

 

[sudsmcgee]

I couldn't find the tumble wall adapter, so I used a 6 inch starter instead and it works fine. I cut a square for the gas line and just folded the tabs over at the bottom.

 

[cincybrewer]

well, so much for customer service. I received the screw yesterday and it didn't even come close to holding the burner in place. Looks like I'm home depot bound with a burner and stand in my hand to test out screws.

 

[DanPoch]

I just ordered one of these burners. Thanks for all the discussion. I was torn between this and a second SP-10 (which I love by the way). I have some old chimney pipe I can use for a wind screen if needed.

Looking forward to my first 10 gallon batch on this.

 

[lowlife]

well, so much for customer service. I received the screw yesterday and it didn't even come close to holding the burner in place. Looks like I'm home depot bound with a burner and stand in my hand to test out screws.

Thats how they are, the screw keeps it from falling off. That's about it.

 

[cincybrewer]

Really, that seems strange. Maybe a different screw can be used that better supports it. If not then I might have to rig it to support it better. It'd make me nervous using it with the burner just hanging there.

 

[lowlife]

I can only speak for mine and a coworkers. Both of ours have the burner attached by one screw and it is very loose. the burner can turn very easily. I thought it was strange at first but it seems to work OK so I don't really worry anymore. You can move the burner pretty far etc..

 

[Gremmie]

iknow im posting in an old thread but .. i just got a sq14 for a gift and guess what missing the screw ect... what size did anyone buy at the hardware store..

 

[cincybrewer]

iknow im posting in an old thread but .. i just got a sq14 for a gift and guess what missing the screw ect... what size did anyone buy at the hardware store..

wish i could remember. I just bought a bunch and found one that fit. I would just take the stand and burner into the hardware store and just try it on there.

 

[devils4ever]

I use one in my garage with the doors open. If you turn it up too high, you can "push" the flames right off the burner. So, you have to throttle it back enough to keep the flames close to the burner. Overall, I like mine for the money. But, I might go for a different one when it dies. Something with more power!!!!

I'm sure you know this, but propane is heavier than air. Be real careful using this inside.

 

[Gremmie]

thanks ... guess im off to the hardware store ...