I got a keg for Christmas!

[philm00x]

I put it on my wish list on Amazon for S's n G's, never really expecting anyone to buy it. But lo and behold, my brother got it for me! A 2.5 gallon number with rubber handle and bottom. I haven't the slightest idea how to use it yet but now I can learn!

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I'm so excited!

[Beer-lord]

This is how fun begins. As does a few more dollars needed but if you take baby steps, you'll get thru it all.

[Inkleg]

Very nice Phil. You must have been a good boy this year.

[FrozenInTime]

Congrats! Keg'n sure beats bottling! Now ya just need this along with a couple of these.

[mashani]

It's a beauty.

[John Sand]

Sweet!

[Dawg LB Steve]

Nice, you can keep it simple to start, get the 5 lb CO2 tank, gas and liquid ball locks, 2-3 feet gas hose, about 6 feet of 1/4" beer hose and a picnic tap. Biggest expense will be the CO2 tank.

[philm00x]

It all seems overwhelming! But I'm sure the LHBS will help.

[Beer-lord]

If they can't help you, we'll definitely try to.

[BlackDuck]

Ooohhh....Shiny Christmas presents are the best.

[philm00x]

Today I finally pulled the trigger on an aluminum CO2 tank for my keg, and I received a regulator for my birthday. To this point, I've got the keg, assembled pigtails for both gas and liquid sides, dual-gauge regulator, and the tank on the way. Aside from filling the tank with gas, and sanitizing the keg and liquid line, is there anything else that I need to start kegging?

[Beer-lord]

I always keep some food grade lube around to lube the rings, especially the big ring for the lid. I would also suggest buying a few poppets for the style keg you have in case one goes bad. While they last a long while, I've had to replace a few in the 3 years I've been kegging.

[John Sand]

Wash the keg first, if you haven't. Mine had dust, the second smelled of oil or plastic. Kegging isn't too hard, I followed instructions online at one of the supplier websites, with more tips from the Borg. It is great fun to tap a fresh beer, or just half if you want. It's also way easier than bottling. I never minded bottle cleaning, until I bought a keg....
p.s. I use the 2.5s also.

[philm00x]

Thanks, Paul and John! I'll be sure to check for some keg lube at the LHBS tomorrow. And also give it a good soak in PBW and then rinse it well.

[Rebel_B]

I also use the 2.5's; super easy, very fun!