Gas Leak
I just got done boasting how gassy I am, and now I have to admit that I leaked . . .
As I have already said I went and got gas on 12.30.08, filled up my 50# and my 5# tanks. Haven’t touched the 50 yet, but the 5 went right on the kegerator and all was good. Well, last weekend 01.11.09 I went to take a pull of beer and got – nothin’. At first I was pissy, then I was concerned and went into detective mode. I realized rather quickly it was the fact that I had no gas, so I figured I must have a leak since it was filled so recently (should last for 4-6 kegs or so).
I had to wait for an opportunity to get gas, which was today, and then the real investigation could begin. I hooked up the full tank and pulled the whole system out of the kegerator. I then filled the sink with water and dropped the three connectors in and turned on the gas to see what happened. The connector for the center faucet started bubbling away, which is where I thought the problem would lie. I was going to drop basically the whole system in the water, but I am not sure what that would do to some of the metals.
Anyway, I took apart the connector and the internal gasket was deformed (supposed to be round), great. Does anyone know where I can buy just the internal gasket to a gas ball lock connector? I haven’t looked yet, but I’m sure they are out there. Fortunately I had an extra connector and just swapped them out. Did the water test again and it seemed all good.
Hooked everything up, and cleaned everything up. Hooked up all three beers and they all seemed to pour fine. So, at this point it is more of a waiting game to see if I solved the problem or only part of the problem. I think it is gong to be fine.
January 17th, 2009 at 7:18 pm
MoreBeer: http://morebeer.com/view_product/6546/102293/Keg_Ball_Lock_or_Pin_Lock_Quick_Disconnect_Replacement_O-Ring_Gasket
Freakin’ $0.50 part cost me $11 on a CO2 fill, plus my time, and headache – I’m lovin’ it.
January 18th, 2009 at 11:28 am
I’ve had that happen twice, first when I initially set up my keg system (leaky seal where the valve screwed into the manifold – the vendor sent me a replacement) and later where the hose attachment to the gas lock connector wasn’t secure. I do try to remember that “it’s only money” 🙂 and the beer wasn’t spoiled, just temporarily under carbonated.
January 18th, 2009 at 7:44 pm
Um so it turns out that there are two CO2 tanks at one of my units that were never picked up (a year ago)
. If i can work out how to put them in my car they are yours.
January 18th, 2009 at 8:26 pm
And if you can’t work it out, we can figure out a time and I can come get them. Thanks for thinking of me !