Going kegging

Discussion in 'Homebrewing' started by JoeyStats707, Apr 1, 2014.

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  1. JoeyStats707

    JoeyStats707 Initiate (0) Jan 28, 2014 California
    Trader

    I decided to build a kegerator for my home brew this weekend, after buying an old fridge, I looked up complete systems and found these two.

    Its the exact same system except ball lock and pin lock. Given pin lock is cheaper, I figured might as well go that route, but I'd like to know if there is a good reason to spend the extra and go with the ball lock system?

    Are there any major pros and cons to either, home brewing wise?
    $281
    http://www.homebrewing.org/5-Gallon...-2-USED-Kegs-to-Build-Kegerator-7_p_2150.html
    $248
    http://www.homebrewing.org/5-Gallon...ll-Lock-Kegs-to-Build-Kegerator-7_p_3874.html

    Thanks
     
  2. VikeMan

    VikeMan Grand Pooh-Bah (3,043) Jul 12, 2009 Pennsylvania
    Pooh-Bah Society

    Ball Lock kegs generally have a relief valve in the lid that can be used to release pressure manually. Pin Lock kegs generally don't. Also, the dimensions are different. Pin Lock kegs are shorter and fatter.
     
  3. ericj551

    ericj551 Pooh-Bah (1,638) Apr 29, 2004 Canada (AB)
    Pooh-Bah

    I never knew the kegs were different sizes, that is interesting. The link for ball lock in this case mentions they are "low profile," I wonder if that means that they are converted pin-locks?
     
  4. jlordi12

    jlordi12 Pooh-Bah (1,844) Jun 8, 2011 Massachusetts
    Pooh-Bah Society

    If given the choice between the two definitely go Ball Lock. I own both kinds and I find them to be much easier to work with.
     
  5. dblab33

    dblab33 Initiate (0) Dec 9, 2011 Michigan

    Adventures sells those low profile ball locks that are a bit larger in diameter and about 3" shorter than the standard corny. They are perfect for putting on the compressor hump in a keezer if you are tight on space.

    After shopping around a bit, I ended up purchasing nearly all of my kegging system from them (5 and 10 lb tanks, 8 kegs, faucets, shanks, regulators, gas lines, misc components, etc). Only things I didn't buy there were my manifolds, drip tray, and serving lines (wanted Accuflex BevSeal Ultra and they don't carry that). Helps that their original location just happens to be my LHBS of choice.
     
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  6. JohnSnowNW

    JohnSnowNW Initiate (0) Feb 6, 2013 Minnesota

    I use, and would recommend ball-lock kegs. That said, I'd also recommend you piece the system together yourself.

    Consider buying a dual-valve regulator...you will thank me later:

    http://www.homebrewing.org/Taprite-Dual-Body-Regulator_p_2956.html

    Then purchase SS for everything but the gas side, including Perlick taps (either 525 or 630):

    http://www.kegconnection.com/shanks-all-sizes-choose-your-size/

    http://www.kegconnection.com/525ss-perlick-forward-seal-stainless-steel-beer-faucet/

    Anyway, you'll be much happier in the long-term spending a little extra money to get the better kegging equipment.
     
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  7. PortLargo

    PortLargo Pooh-Bah (1,737) Oct 19, 2012 Florida
    Pooh-Bah Society

    Not directly related to ball vs. pin, but a few details that are not obvious now but you will learn to appreciate:

    Using male flare fittings (mfl) for both gas and liquid connections will minimize aggravation. This involves extra connections (barb/swivel-nut) but will add a few years to your life-span. (it looks like these kits have it)

    Two kegs are good to start, but the beauty of kegging is having a pipeline in place. Consider planning your kegerator around more rather than less.

    Bit the bullet and get all your extras in advance (again, adds to life-span). Buy a line cutter, dip-tube brush, faucet brush, and at least double the gaskets, connectors, clamps, and whatnots before you need them.

    A 10 lb tank is so much better than a 5 lbs you should consider a 20 lb'er. Please get a better than average regulator and review the possibilities of having multiple pressures (if this is important to you). You will find CO2 is your friend for more than just pushing beer through a faucet. The tap-rite model pictured is a good one.

    From the description it looks like you are getting generic faucets and shanks. It doesn't cost a lot more to get something better and ss is the way to go here.

    Please, review previous posts (Home Bar Forum) and numerous web sources on how to balance your system before you open the gas valve the first time (ditto for leaks). If you rely on their advice ("this system should be run at 10 psi") you will be disappointed.

    Good luck, I'm pretty sure my kegging system has lead to major improvements in the quality of drinking.
     
    #7 PortLargo, Apr 1, 2014
    Last edited: Apr 1, 2014
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  8. WeaponTheyFear

    WeaponTheyFear Initiate (0) Mar 9, 2008 Connecticut

    I definitely agree, do not buy a cheap regulator. I bought a $30 regulator for my set up and the gauge was terrible. I would set the pressure and then 20 minutes later the gauge would read a lot higher. It took way too long for the gauge to change so don't skimp on the regulator.
     
  9. JoeyStats707

    JoeyStats707 Initiate (0) Jan 28, 2014 California
    Trader

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  10. JohnSnowNW

    JohnSnowNW Initiate (0) Feb 6, 2013 Minnesota

    I think you'll be happy with that. Congrats...beats the crap out of bottling.
     
  11. mikehartigan

    mikehartigan Maven (1,397) Apr 9, 2007 Illinois

    Gauges are easily replaceable, and they're pretty cheap. I recently replaced the gauges on two of my Micromatic regulators (nice regulators, but pretty generic gauges that were getting finicky after six years). FWIW, I bought 30 psi gauges instead of the traditional 60. Much easier to adjust, IMO.

    And don't skimp on the regulator!
     
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  12. VikeMan

    VikeMan Grand Pooh-Bah (3,043) Jul 12, 2009 Pennsylvania
    Pooh-Bah Society

    One of my micromatic gauges has finally gone rogue. Can you describe your method to replace? I can't quite decide where to hold the valve body and with what to minimize the chance of damage.
     
  13. mikehartigan

    mikehartigan Maven (1,397) Apr 9, 2007 Illinois

    I put it in a vise. Don't clamp it down tight - just snug enough to hold it in position while the vise's jaws provide the stops to keep it from turning. It'll become clear when you try it. Keep in mind that the body is not the delicate part.
     
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