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Author Topic: Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.  (Read 4811 times)

Offline Scottsvegas

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Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.
« on: December 30, 2016, 03:14:22 pm »
I went to test out my CO2 setup in preparation for kegging this weekend for the first time. I have 2 major leaks. I bought used equipment locally and this isn't the first issue I've had, so I shouldn't be surprised. I'm using brass connection fittings and an old soda line and ball lock kegs.

The first leak found was a nick in the line itself. The second one is a major leak at the connection point to the regulator. The brass fittings are swivel types on each end. One end connects to the regulator and one to the keg fill quick connect. The leak is behind the nut at the swivel point for the regulator connection and it's blowing major soap bubbles.

I went to Home Depot looking for parts to remedy this and came up empty handed. I am beyond frustrated today. Lately, homebrewing has been frustrating, and this isn't helping. I needed to keg this weekend.

What should I do?

Offline bayareabrewer

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Re: Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.
« Reply #1 on: December 30, 2016, 03:19:11 pm »
I went to test out my CO2 setup in preparation for kegging this weekend for the first time. I have 2 major leaks. I bought used equipment locally and this isn't the first issue I've had, so I shouldn't be surprised. I'm using brass connection fittings and an old soda line and ball lock kegs.

The first leak found was a nick in the line itself. The second one is a major leak at the connection point to the regulator. The brass fittings are swivel types on each end. One end connects to the regulator and one to the keg fill quick connect. The leak is behind the nut at the swivel point for the regulator connection and it's blowing major soap bubbles.

I went to Home Depot looking for parts to remedy this and came up empty handed. I am beyond frustrated today. Lately, homebrewing has been frustrating, and this isn't helping. I needed to keg this weekend.

What should I do?

are you using the flat little hard plastic gasket between the regulator and the co2 bottle?

Offline Scottsvegas

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Re: Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.
« Reply #2 on: December 30, 2016, 03:22:41 pm »
Yes. That's the first thing I checked. It's in good repair. I also tried PTFE tape.

Offline bboy9000

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Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.
« Reply #3 on: December 30, 2016, 03:23:51 pm »
I never use the washer and I don't have any leaks.

OP, are you using a wrench to tighten?  IME, it has to be "tool tight."

If the washer and wrench doesn't solve the problem try taking it apart and use teflon plumber's tape on the threads before putting it back together.

I've seen some pretty cheap regulators so you may just have a bad one that needs replaced.

EDIT:  just saw your comment about the tape.
« Last Edit: December 30, 2016, 03:28:27 pm by bboy9000 »
Brian
mobrewer

Offline bayareabrewer

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Re: Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.
« Reply #4 on: December 30, 2016, 03:24:32 pm »
Yes. That's the first thing I checked. It's in good repair. I also tried PTFE tape.

damn, ummm, can you post pictures?

Offline Scottsvegas

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Re: Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.
« Reply #5 on: December 30, 2016, 03:34:45 pm »
I don't know how to. I have pictures on my phone though.

Offline Stevie

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Re: Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.
« Reply #6 on: December 30, 2016, 03:40:54 pm »
The washer can actually cause leaks if your regulator has an integrated o-ring.

Offline bayareabrewer

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Re: Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.
« Reply #7 on: December 30, 2016, 03:44:25 pm »
The washer can actually cause leaks if your regulator has an integrated o-ring.

good point.

Offline HoosierBrew

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Re: Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.
« Reply #8 on: December 30, 2016, 03:52:43 pm »
The washer can actually cause leaks if your regulator has an integrated o-ring.


Yep.
Jon H.

Offline Scottsvegas

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Re: Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.
« Reply #9 on: December 30, 2016, 04:09:22 pm »
The regulator has a nipple fitting. No washer

Offline HoosierBrew

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Re: Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.
« Reply #10 on: December 30, 2016, 04:11:08 pm »
The regulator has a nipple fitting. No washer


I'd try a single layer of teflon tape, get the connection good and snug, and then leak check all the connections with a spray bottle of star san.
Jon H.

Offline Stevie

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Re: Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.
« Reply #11 on: December 30, 2016, 04:15:36 pm »
I was referring to the "gasket" between the regulator and the bottle. If your regulator has an integrated o ring where it meets the bottle, adding a washer may cause leaks.

Offline Scottsvegas

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Re: Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.
« Reply #12 on: December 30, 2016, 05:00:50 pm »
I've done the soapy water test and tried tape and checked all connections. It's leaking at the line nut to regulator connection at the swiveling point.

Offline Stevie

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Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.
« Reply #13 on: December 30, 2016, 05:29:05 pm »
Is it a metal to metal connection? You may need a small flare washer. If you can't get one, you should be able to find a brass barb at Home Depot that will work. Should be 1/4" npt on the body.

Flare fittings should not be taped. This could cause leaks.

Offline Scottsvegas

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Re: Help! Leaks in CO2 Line from Regulator to Keg.
« Reply #14 on: December 30, 2016, 05:45:52 pm »
It's flared. Tried it both ways and it still leaks.

I surrender. I guess I'll go find the seller who screwed me over and kick him repeatedly.