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Dent on the mouth of pin lock keg. Can it be fixed?

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JMV

Active Member
Joined
Aug 9, 2023
Messages
26
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9
Location
Louisiana
I bought two pin lock kegs and both had issues. One has a dent on the mouth of the keg. Like something was dropped on it when the lid was removed. It is deep enough to shift the lid. Not sure if it will hold pressure though I haven’t tried yet. How can I safely remove the dent?
 
One has a dent on the mouth of the keg. [...] It is deep enough to shift the lid. [...] How can I safely remove the dent?
That rim needs to be rather smooth and flat to make a proper seal.
Can you post a picture of the keg's opening showing the dent/damage?
 
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[Picture] As requested
Thank you!
It helps to see the task at hand. The dent isn't too bad, and should be fixable.

The dented rim area needs to be pried up, gently and evenly.
I'd probably try using a C-clamp, together with some sort of "bridge" spanning over the top, resting on the keg's "roof" within the space confined by the rubber handles.

But let's wait and see what other members have to say.
 
Had a similar issue. Hose pieces on channel lock jaws, gentle hammering, and some prying with wood blocks seemed to smooth it out for a guaranteed seal.

Just remember that the blemish won't go away with one tap or pry - baby steps will get you there.
 
It doesn’t look too bad. As mac 1103 said, I would test it. Pressurize it to like 5psi. If a leak is not obvious, spray a soapy solution on it and see if it bubbles. If it does require a repair, I would try to gently pry it into shape with a crescent wrench. Just tighten the jaws onto the lip and pry. Baby steps.
 
I bought some refurbished pin locks and had similar issues. One requires applying pressure then gently wiggling the cap until it sets. I’ve found this a better approach than trying to fix it with whatever unintended consequences come with that. I’m in the “try it first” camp.
 
I bought a used keg with a very similar ding in it and did like @FloppyKnockers : I used channel locks, s piece of silicone hose on top and a piece of wood that I'd cut to match the curve and angle of the lip, but it still only sealed with an oversized o-ring.
I considered keeping it but my LHBS offered a trade when I told them about it, so I returned it. My confidence was about 50/50.
 
Thanks for all the advice. I contacted the seller and provided them with the same photos and they said that it was not fixable and are sending me a replacement keg. They even said I should keep the defective keg for parts. I am satisfied with them and may try to repair the defective keg at some point if I need it.
 
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