Combination ball valve and sightglass?

[bobbytuck]

I'm looking for a combination ball-valve and sightglass. I've seen these around for sale on various sites, but I'm not able to find one.

Does anyone know a site that sells the combo?

 

[str8wire]

Not a ball valve, but bargainfittings.com has a combo sight-glass and thermometer bulk-head

 

[cascadia]

I built a combo valve/sight glass for my hlt. However, it did not work. When the water level got below the valve it pulled air in from the top of the sight glass causing the flow to stop leaving several gallons behind. I had diptube installed as well, but didn't make a difference.

I never figured out a way to resolve it, so I relocated the sight glass to another hole on the kettle.

 

[bobbytuck]

Hmmm. Thanks for the responses. Looks like I'll just drill another hole with a step bit for the sightglass. I was hoping to avoid that, but I guess it's pretty straightforward.

 

[cascadia]

How about putting a valve on the top of the sight glass?

Have it open when filling and close it up when draining. Would probably work, however cheaper to drill another hole.

 

[limulus]

Try this place:
http://www.homebrewstuff.com/servlet/the-HBS-Gadgets/Categories
They have the combos and the individual pieces. I already had SS valves from Bargain Fittings and I just bought the 12" sight glass T and a nipple all stainless. The only thing I have to do when starting to pump wort from the kettle is place my finger on the top of the sight glass for a couple of seconds to prevent air from being sucked into the pump.

 

[Sawdustguy]

I'm looking for a combination ball-valve and sightglass. I've seen these around for sale on various sites, but I'm not able to find one.

Does anyone know a site that sells the combo?

I am sure that Bobby M could come up with something for you.

 

[oregonparamedic]

It will work with a tee fitting but you have to plug the open end of the sightglass when opening the ball valve to prevent it from sucking in air.

 

[Bobby_M]

It's generally a bad idea for two reasons. It won't read accurately while you're draining and it won't siphon all the way unless you plug/cap the top of the tubing while draining.

My weldless sight kits only require a 9/16" hole and they are guaranteed leak free.

 

[EarthBound]

Do not combine a ball valve and a sight glass. Only combine the sight glass with a thermometer.

 

[bobbytuck]

Thanks for the tips. Bobby M -- I'll take a look at your kits. Thanks!