trying to peice together a kegging kit

[austinb]

I am currently trying to piece together a kegging system as cheap and basic as possible. Since I am on such a tight budget I am looking for advice on where to get each piece co2 tank, keg, regulator, ball lock fittings and picnic tap as cheap as possible. So far the best price i've found is at learntobrew.com with their $160 one keg kit and $8 shipping but the co2 tank ships empty so its going to cost to fill it too. I'd like to see if I can piece it together for less though. If anyone can point me to a cheap source for any of the parts it would be very much appreciated. Thanks.

 

[badbrew]

craigslist for kegs and co2 tanks.

 

[Smashing]

craigslist for kegs and co2 tanks.

+1 craigslist for everything!

 

[austinb]

I've been looking on the local craigslist for the last 6 months and there hasn't been much or they have been asking a ridiculous price for it. I've seen some stuff on the portland craigslist which is about an hour away but the $25 in gas to drive means that i would have to buy a whole kit to make it worthwhile and i haven't seen that yet.

 

[Golddiggie]

Keg Connection also has their 'basic' kits... Comes to just under $160 ($158.91) plus $7.95 shipping with an used [ball lock] keg and new CO2 cylinder (5#, new aluminum). You'll need to get the CO2 cylinder filled (same for anyplace that ships them, since they MUST be shipped empty due to DOT regulations)...

Personally, I would advise going with one of their single 'premium' kits since it comes with a Taprite regulator. At only $173.91 (also plus the $7.95 shipping), it's only $15 more, and you get the better regulator. I had one of their Chudnow regulators, until it had issues. I've since swapped it out (from Keg Connection) for a Taprite (both are/were dual body) regulator. While most of the time the Chudnow regulators are fine, for those on a budget, the issue with mine made it clear I wouldn't be happy even with a replacement (of the same make/model). Of course Keg Connection has taken care of the replacement of the regulator and I'm enjoying the Taprite. Had I known, earlier, that I would end up with a Taprite, I would have purchased that the first time.

 

[jjotmo]

Also check out beveragefactory.com you can make your own kit with them so you can start small and add as you go.