Stuck keg posts

[Andyoesq]

I bough another ball lock keg. Looks great on the outside. I went to break it down and clean it.
I can't get the posts off. The hand of Thor must have tightened them last. I have a deep ratchet set, I attach it and hit it with a hammer to try and loosen them, no luck.
Anyone have any tricks to try and get it loose?

 

[day_trippr]

Try running the hottest water you can get out of your kitchen faucet over the posts for awhile and see if that loosens them up...

Cheers!

 

[Toblerone]

Hiya Andy.

Generally speaking, I would try two different approaches (assuming the hot water trick doesn't work):

1. Tabasco, used as a penetrating oil. I would steer clear of using traditional penetrating oils, since they would be a PITA to clean (and are generally not food-safe).

2. Directed heat. Perhaps applied with a paint stripping gun, or a handheld torch, directly to the post for short periods of time, to expand the metal and break the hold. If you attempt this, ensure that you have a replacement o-ring (and poppet) in case yours are destroyed.

I am assuming that you have the common type of ball lock kegs, and not the type with bulkhead posts. If you have bulkheads, you need to get a socket or wrench on the inside nut.

Good luck!