New Brew Pot - What Should I get

[HoppyMaltPoet]

How difficult is it to install a weldless valve on one of the Bayou Classics? I just don't want to damage the pot if I spend the money on purchasing one. I could get 2 of these and two valves for the price of one Blichmann if I install the valves myself. Although I love the thought of owning a Blichmann and kind of had my heart set on it, I may be able to get more with this setup sooner. I guess as long as it is good quality and will last a long time and the valves are easy to install without issue, I should at least be considering this.

 

[Captain_Bigelow]

As long as you have a decent drill and a titanium stepped drill bit (you can get them on eBay for under $10 shipped) it is relatively easy. Aluminum is a lot easier to cut than stainless steel. Just make sure you take your time and don't drill the hole too big.

There are instructions and pics on the bargainfittings website.

 

[Wayne1]

Bargain Fittings has everything you need to install weldless or welded fittings to you pot.

Take a look at his site. He has some very good instructions on how to install his parts.

 

[rcrabb22]

A thermometer is essential for me since I keep my pot covered until temp hits approx 205F. I guess in the heat of summer not a big deal to keep lid off, but when the garage is 25F bringing 13+ gal to boil can take significantly longer without a cover.

With a thermometer I can check the kettle from a distance without having to stop what I'm doing to raise the lid to take a peek. Each brewer has their own process.

 

[klyph]

After putting a ball valve and thermometer on my kettle, I couldn't believe how dumb I was to have not done it sooner

 

[springer]

get the largest pot you can afford or work with. I started with a 7.5 went to a keggle . Now I use a a 30 gallon aluminum pot its lighter than the keg and it heats faster

 

[Buffman]

I have this pot, it's great.
I got the one with the steamer basket, I use it to steam chicken wings and seafood as well as brew

Wings - what a great idea!! I have the 15g version with the steamer basket that I was just considering selling on Craigslist because I never use it for brewing. I'm keeping it now.