Build Log: Grizzly 400 "Modplunge", AA 1/4 Chiller setup.

kealyv

wintermute What about filter after the chiller? like return to pump to chiller to filter?

And is adding the inkbird after this setup doable? only to reduce run time…

wintermute

kealyv If you want to reduce runtime I personally would use a smart plug. You can put the filter after the chiller if you want, it'll work fine. You could install a coarse mesh filter before the pump if you think you'll have larger debris getting in the tub. That's not a problem I have.

kealyv

How far down from the top (or up from the bottom) did you drill the bulk head?

kealyv

Does the Parts list at top of thread include ALL fittings/pipe/material needed? I noticed half way down thread it was mentioned needing "a small segment of 3/4” pipe for all your slip connections" but didn't see it in material list.
Is the 1 3/8" hole saw bit for the McMaster bulkhead (because I noticed you mentioned, "I'm now recommending this bulkhead"- so not sure if the 1 3/8 hole was for one you used or if you did use the McMaster.

I appreciate you posting this and helping a rookie like myself and many others.

wintermute

kealyv Yes you will need a short length of 3/4" PVC pipe and a way to cut it. The McMaster bulkhead requires a 1 5/8" hole. I have updated the post for this info.

Warthog-79

wintermute What silicone sealant did you use? Defiantly want to get this right the first time! BTW, thanks for this review and sharing. It has been most helpful. I am going 1" on everything because I have an Eco Plus commercial chiller.

wintermute

Warthog-79 I used loctite silicone waterproof sealant. Use something that says it works under water. I'm really interested to see what kind of flow rate you get, make a post when you complete it!

Warthog-79

wintermute My current limiter may be the garden hose return. Trying to find a workaround without installing another bulkhead… I need a 2"NPS to 1" for PVC.. not sure if it exists.

wintermute

Warthog-79 That sounds difficult to find off the shelf! Would be interesting to test and see the actual impact.

jshak123

Hi, first off thank you for creating this post. I have bought all of the parts listed above.

For the Mcmaster Bulkhead, how would I connect the garden hose for draining, is there a piece that I would need? since the inside of the bulkhead is not threaded

wintermute

jshak123 The Mcmaster bulkhead is not threaded so it will need a new solution. I am currently not using that bulkhead but I am thinking there is a way to make a tight enough compression connection there for a drainage hose. Let me know if you come up with a solution.

Livetoride

Bulkhead Question:

I believe you used the FlexPVC bulkhead as you made a 1 3/8 hole. You then made a recommendation for a new McMaster bulkhead https://www.mcmaster.com/36895K112/. I am confirming you did not use this one as it has an Non-threaded inside on the external side of the cooler and your connection was with 3/4 pipe nipple which would not go together.

Would you recommend using the Mcmaster bulkhead you recommend with a flat pipe glued into it externally or would you suggest this one (https://www.mcmaster.com/36895K122/ and connecting with the nipple?

Kelly_CO

Livetoride

based on my research - you are correct. he used a FlexPVC bulkhead. the FlexPVC bulkhead can be ordered with threaded or slip fitting on either side.

if you use the mcmaster bulkhead - its slip fit on the inside, threaded on the outside.

HTH

wintermute

I used the flexPVC bulkhead but also have the MCMaster bulkhead on hand in case I ever want to switch it out. I do love that the flexpvc bulkhead is threaded so I can screw a hose onto it to empty the tank. However, I'm sure it would not be hard to come up with some sort of compression fit adapter to do the same thing with the McMaster bulkhead. The two that you linked above seem identical to me, I'm not sure what the difference is.

Kelly_CO

Threaded connection on both sides:
https://www.mcmaster.com/36895K122/

Threaded connection on the outside, Slip connection on the inside:
https://www.mcmaster.com/36895K112/

HTH

wintermute

Kelly_CO Threaded on both sides is awesome, I missed that! I am now recommending that one.

surfdog08

Kelly_CO if I bought (2) of the K122 connections can I just return and switch those out for the K122?

coman1080

I know you've stood behind it in previous comments, but just looking for some reassurance prior to pulling the trigger. I am planning to replicate this build with an Ice Barrel 500 in Central TX where summer temps reach 100+. I will place the tub in my garage. Given the insulation on this model, would you still stand behind the AA 1/4hp being sufficient? I have seen mixed opinions all the way from the 1/4hp being plenty to others suggesting a 1hp model. Due to the drastic price differences and availability, I'm looking for an opinion from someone with direct experience. Thanks!

wintermute

coman1080
Yes, 3010 BTUs is enough. I wouldn't consider using a more powerful unit. The AA 1/4HP chiller did fine all throughout the brutal '23 Texas summer we had. The max temps in my garage this past summer got into the mid 90s during the hottest days.

coman1080

wintermute this is awesome news for my wallet! I’ve asked this question in numerous places and have gotten answers ranging from 1/4hp all the way up to 1hp, but hearing your first hand experience is just the assurance I needed. Thanks!

« Previous Page