gravity-line success?

[notacarpenter]

I am considering making a gavity line along a hilly hedge-row for next year. Currently, I have 1-2 taps going from tubing into 5 gallon buckets depending on the size of each tree, but with all the snow that we get, I am trying to centralize this section into one collection point. What are some key things to help ensure that the sap will flow without backing up? Or, is vacuum the only answer when networking multiple trees/taps?

[3rdgen.maple]

No vac is a big bonus but gravity alone will get you decent results. Just make sure you have a good slope and the more taps on a lateral the better to create a natural vac. I think the going number is 15 to 20 for optimal results. If you however are ever considering switching it over for vac in the future set it up that way from day one and you will save some time and money later.