How hard is it to change a bottle valve?
Now I understand that when on right, they hold back 1000+psi and are pressure rated for probably twice that while leak checking perfectly.
So....how hard is it to take off a valve, and install a different one? What do you use to hold the bottle stationary without scratching the hell out of it?
And what's a good quality gauge for bottles? I only ask because I had not one but TWO NOS brand liquid filled gauges fail and leak that liquid all over my tank 2x in the first 6 weeks I owned that kit.
You need a place to hold the bottle, (like a pipe chain bench) and a BIG crescent wrench, plus sealant and somebody to help you.
Make sure all pressure is relieved and wear safety googles before you procceed.
- Put a rag around the bottle and clamp it with the bench, the firmer the better.
- Unscrew valve with the wrench.
- Clean bottle's interior with compressed air
- Screw the new valve by hand to check proper fitment and siphon alignment
- If ok, remove it and apply loctite or any thread sealant (don't use teflon tape).
- Screw the valve and fasten it with the big wrench. Tighten it as strong as you can.
- Install pressure gauge
I always test with 2 pounds of N2O and heat it with the bottle heater, then put it under water to check for leaks. If no leaks are found, you can fill it full.
J.C.
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