First time kegging - a few questions

[jmf143]

I'm going to build a kegerator out of a used fridge and could use some help with the connections -

How much longer should my shanks be than the thickness of the door?
Any issues with using 1/4" bore shanks with 3/16" beer line?
Barbed connector on shanks for beer line or some other type?
Barbed connector to connect beer line to beer line or some other type?

I plan on connecting beer line to the shank, then cut the line at about 2'. I'll use a connector to attach another length of beer line ("choke line"), then another connector and more beer line to the keg. I'll vary the length of the "choke line" depending on the keg pressure in order to balance my system.

Does this sound good in theory, but doesn't work in practice?

 

[rsklhm10]

I will help where I can. As for the size of the shanks, how thick is the door you are trying to go through? I would not necessarily base the length on how much excess you have to have, just remember that you will need enough thread to attach the tailpiece and nut. For reference, I had about 2" to go through and used a 4 1/8" stainless shank (with plenty of excess). As for the tailpiece and connecting 3/16" line, 1/4" tailpiece/barbs will be fine. As to your proposed line setup, I have no experience with that concept. I will say that I have had no issues using 10ft lines with varying pressures, although I do not change pressures that often. When do you anticipate the need to change serving pressures that dramatically, as most beers can be served relatively consistent.? If you are wanting different pressures I would consider additional regulators with one single length of beer line instead. Good luck.

 

[jmf143]

I will say that I have had no issues using 10ft lines with varying pressures, although I do not change pressures that often.

That's what I wanted to hear! I have a bad habit of over complicating things. Thanks for being the voice of reason.

 

[rsklhm10]

That's what I wanted to hear! I have a bad habit of over complicating things. Thanks for being the voice of reason.

No problem, now granted that is based on not making very large changes in serving pressure. If your are going to be serving root beer and other liquids you may run into some issues as the serving pressures change dramatically.

 

[elproducto]

I just setup mine, and I used 10ft. of 3/16" line on 1/4" barbs. It's a tight fit, but it will go if you warm up the tubing with some hot water.

Getting perfect pours with 10 ft. of line.