Senior Project!!!

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Hello,
My name is Mike and I am trying to help My Sister In-Law out with her Senior Project... I am a bit Overwhelmed right now... She Is doing her Senior project on Maple Sugaring... It is a number of different projects if you ask me...
Step one restore the Sugar Shack 1500 to 1800 feet out in the maple orchard... See Thread http://mapletrader.com/community/showthread.php?t=12991 Now I told her I would match her $ for $ on this project and she told me she had $600 so that gave us $1200 total, not bad for a 17 year old high school student who has had to work for everything she owns...
Step Two Install or Restore 250 taps on a gravity system... We found 3/4" and 1" Mainline burried in the dirt in the orchard, so we have dug it up, flushed it, drained it, bleeched it, rinsed it, repaired what was repairable, and reinstalled enough to have 122 taps, so she only has 128 to go to hit the 250 mark, but we are out of supplies... After doing some research we found that the people who used to tap the orchard had over 800 taps, wow thats alot...
Step Three she actually has to produce Maple Syrup... That would mean she needs something to boil the sap with and that will keep up with her 250 taps...
So this is where We would like to THANK a # of members here on Mapletrader... I am sorry if We miss anybody...

stoweski @ http://www.beesofthewoods.com/ for donating North American Maple Producers Manual

DaveLaurie0824 for giving us a deal on a 2x4 Small Brothers Lightning Evaporator, Hood, Stack, Buckets, Fire Brick, and other Evap related equipment... (They can share the details of the deal if they would like to, needless to say we are out of funds now... But it was worth every penny..)

NH Maplemaker @ http://www.mapleandhoney.com/ for donating health spouts w/drops

tuckermtn @ http://www.tuckermtn.com/ for donating two 300 gal galv. stock tanks

Jim Schumacher @ http://smokylakemaple.com/ for donating

Paul @ http://stainlesssteelcreations.net/ for donating a Preheater

Richard @ http://osbornesmarine.com/ for being a great friend, and Mentor

Pete @ http://www.raggedmountainresort.com/ for picking up donations and dropping them off on his way to sunapee

Nijmeh @ http://maverickhousewares.com/ for donating a CT-03 Oil/Candy/Fryer Thermometer

No Name, Unknown, or Whom Ever for donating 200 Leader Plastic 5/16" Barbed Tees, 100 Leader 7/16" Stubby Spouts, 100 Leader Check Valve Spout Adapts, 100 Leader End Line Rings

Andy Wegner @ http://www.wegnermetalworks.com/ for donating 8" Hydrometer Cup

sugarmountain for donating a syrup scoop

Kim Munson @ http://www.stainlesspails.com/categories.asp for donating 3 sixteen quart stainless steel pails

Dave Fallon @ www.amtecgrips.com for donating 3/4" tension grips

Rob Bauer @ http://dawnindustries.com/ for donating tubing cutters

Matt and Jessica Williams @ WH Supply (802) 868-0941 for donating

John Hagan @ www.wilburcurtis.com (www.wilburcurtis.com)for donating a Stainless Steel Filtering Rig actualy it is an iced tea dispenser

Colin Christie @ http://www.sugaringequipment.elapierre.com/default_en.asp?no=101 for donating

Richard Jackson @ http://www.voorheesrubber.com/ for donating Rubber Candy Molds and a Book

Lisa Hardwick @ http://www.omnifilter.com/ for donating a OB5 Filter Housing and a RS14 Filter

Lloyd L. Munsee @ http://www.bigtreemaple.com/ for donating a roll of 5/16" tubing, Cone Filter, Pre Filter

Dianna Jablonski @ Virginia Vermiculite LLC for donating a bag of expanded grade 3 or grade 4 vermiculite

Mike @ http://www.stolororganics.com for donating 8oz organic sunflower oil to use as a defoamer

We would also like to thank everyone else for there advice and offers to help out with time and labor and experience, as soonas we can come up with a work day we will let any and all know when... I can tell you it will be most Sundays, depending on the weather!!!

Also would like to know if anyone knows where we can get some donations or extreme discounts on rough cut lumber, and maple sugaring equipment and supplies... We have wrote letters to a number of local lumber companies, and have had one say they would donate some lumber to my Sister In-laws Senior Project... We have also wrote letters to a number of Maple Sugaring Equipment Suppliers and have had NO luck at all...

We would also like to thank the members of Mapletrader, as this is like having one big family!!!

[GramaCindy]

Hello USMC….Congratulations on your perserverence! I want to thank you for your service to our great land too. My son is a SGT in the USMC and I know of the sacrifice that you all make on behalf of all of us. I am only in my first year of sugaring and if I had some supplies to help you, I would too. Please keep us posted as this is a very small world and we all help where we can.;)

[Flat Lander Sugaring]

what else do you need, Hydrometers? syrup, sugar,

[lakeview maple]

when do you want to start rebuilding the shack,set a date a tell us what you need ? The truck and the cooler are loaded ,yeehaa lets get busy,

[Kev]

Dont be afraid to approach your nearist Legion post or S.A.L. They are into helping students do things too.

[Jim Schumacher]

Chuck Haynes and I are working on a great new design for a drip pan to serve a pre-heater. I am confident it will be highly effective and will be more versitile and flawless then most other designs. I would like to send you one complete with a preheater. I will just need some details about the contour on the top of the pans and the hood. Please pm me with some photos and shipping info.

Jim

[Kev]

its really cool to see so many people helping out on this project.:D

[3rdgen.maple]

This is indeed what america should be all about. What a great way to say thanks for your services than to help out. Could you please send me a pm with your name and address. I have contacted Bascoms in NH and have asked if an account could be setup in your name so anyone interested can send in a donation for your needs. I will let you all know as soon as I get a reply back. I would be proud to contribute to it. Good luck on this project with your sister in law.

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Thank You Everyone for your time and information!!



Hello USMC….Congratulations on your perserverence! I want to thank you for your service to our great land too. My son is a SGT in the USMC and I know of the sacrifice that you all make on behalf of all of us. I am only in my first year of sugaring and if I had some supplies to help you, I would too. Please keep us posted as this is a very small world and we all help where we can.;)

Well I think everyone should be required to do a min of four years in the military, but if we made that a law this would not be a free country now would it... Tell your son I said Semper Fi!!! I know how you feel at this point I think my sister knows more about sugaring than I do, I have to read up on this stuff... No worries, I am sure with all the great people on here and the leters and e-mails my sister in law has me doing we will come up with enough supplies, labor, and know how to get her through the senior project... She should start lifegaurding at the town beach pretty soon, so she will hopefully make some more money to get us some more supplies, all I have to do is try to keep up with her... Just the offer to help is good enough for her...

Thank You Very Much!!!


what else do you need, Hydrometers? syrup, sugar,

Thank You for all of your time, and advise!!!

Ok I sent you the list of what we have and you sent me a list of what she needs to get...

1. Syrup and Sap hydrometer
2. " " cup Andy Wegner @ http://www.wegnermetalworks.com/ for donating 8" Hydrometer Cup
3. draw off bucket Kim Munson @ http://www.stainlesspails.com/categories.asp for donating 3 sixteen quart stainless steel pails
4. syrup scoop and skimmer sugarmountain for donating a syrup scoop
5. defoamer
6. a dial temp probe Nijmeh @ http://maverickhousewares.com/ for donating a CT-03 Oil/Candy/Fryer Thermometer
7. filter rig
8. felt filter
9. pre filters
10. pre heater Paul @ http://stainlesssteelcreations.net/ for donating a Preheater
11. float box Jim Schumacher @ http://smokylakemaple.com/ for donating


Outside we still need 5/16" lateral line, 5/16" fittings, mainline wire, and who knows what else...

And rough cut hemlock or pine


when do you want to start rebuilding the shack,set a date a tell us what you need ? The truck and the cooler are loaded ,yeehaa lets get busy,

well we did some work this weekend you missed it and I really needed a beer too...


Dont be afraid to approach your nearist Legion post or S.A.L. They are into helping students do things too.


its really cool to see so many people helping out on this project.:D

We are still contacting local business, and suppliers to try to get donations and discounts... If you know where we can get food grade 275 or 325 caged totes for sap storage really cheap or free, that would help as i think when we hit her 250 taps she is going to need some storage for it...

She didn't want me to ask for help at all then she realized that everything is so expensive, and she could not afford everything she needed so as much as she hate to ask for help she came to the understanding that this project was not going to happen with out help from others!!! I agree I never would have thought in todays world that we would have anyone offer to help!!!


Chuck Haynes and I are working on a great new design for a drip pan to serve a pre-heater. I am confident it will be highly effective and will be more versitile and flawless then most other designs. I would like to send you one complete with a preheater. I will just need some details about the contour on the top of the pans and the hood. Please pm me with some photos and shipping info.

Jim

Thank You Very Much!!!

Ok If you need measurements or more info other than what i sent you please let me know and I will get it right out to you... I talked to my sister in-law to get her to explain to me what you are talking about, from what you are saying, she would not need to buy a float box??? I dont know I am lost!!! Anyway Thank You Very Much again!!!


This is indeed what america should be all about. What a great way to say thanks for your services than to help out. Could you please send me a pm with your name and address. I have contacted Bascoms in NH and have asked if an account could be setup in your name so anyone interested can send in a donation for your needs. I will let you all know as soon as I get a reply back. I would be proud to contribute to it. Good luck on this project with your sister in law.

To be Honest I almost thought that an america where people helped out other people was a thing of the past, but this tight nit community here has proven me wrong...

Michael Barnhart
90 North Road
PO Box 266
Sunapee, NH 03782

My sister in-law is Victoria, my In-Laws asked that I do not put her full name and addy on the internet as she is 17 and in high school...

I dont even know what to say, She is at a loss for words as she too did not think there was anyone left in america that would help another, besides her parents, bro and sis, and her brother in-law...

All I can say is Thank You

[3% Solution]

Hi Mike,
Does this land belong to a family member?
Or someone that has given permission for you to do this?
Do you need any advice on the carpentry end of things?
I know where North Rd. is.
Do you guys know the Leavitts on North Rd.?

[3% Solution]

Hi Mike,
Ok got the message that the land belongs to the in-laws.
Sent you a PM.

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Hi Mike,
Does this land belong to a family member?
Or someone that has given permission for you to do this?
Do you need any advice on the carpentry end of things?
I know where North Rd. is.
Do you guys know the Leavitts on North Rd.?

The land is my In-laws, the rights to the orchard are someone elses, which we have got the ok to tap the trees and do some thinning... I dont understand how you can own property but someone else has the rights to a chunk of it and you have to ask them to use it... but what do i know???
I think I am all set on carpentry end right now, I know I have to jack up one whole side of the shack ( the uphill side has setteled about 6-8") I have one major structural beam on the far end that is rotted away, two big sections of the floor are rotted I went through it a number of times on sunday, and we have two roof rafters rotten, I could not count the number of floor joist that are rotten, missing windows and doors.... I just need to find the materials to repair or replace the rotten ones, but i dont want to use standard lumber, I would like to replace it with rough cut!!!
Yes I do know the Leavitts, They go by the house a number of times a day, always sap in there tanks!!!

[tuckermtn]

USMC- I have two 300 gal galv. stock tanks you can have. Even have covers for them. One is crunched up but will hold water, the other is good to go. I live just over in Andover NH, so not to far to travel. I know I can pass on some other odds and ends...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

I have Updated the Thank You for Donations list!!! Post #1 in this thread!!!

We hope to see as many of you as we can at Bascoms on the 30th at the Open House!!!

Thank You All...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

I was adding pics to this post http://mapletrader.com/community/showthread.php?t=12991 and when i checked it I could not find them, I realized I added them to the wrong thread!!!

My fault, I have contacted the mod to delete the last two post!!!

[Flat Lander Sugaring]

Would love to be there but be at the Cruise In on Central Av. in Phx.

[stoweski]

Looking good, looking real good!

[cvmaple]

I am glad to see this project is going forward, you should be in good shape by spring. I am proud of the Mapletraders for their benevolence and hope you keep us posted of the progress.

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

My Sister In-Law would like to thank whom ever sent her 200 Leader Plastic 5/16" Barbed Tee, 100 Leader 7/16" Stubby Spout, 100 Leader Check Valve Spout Adapt, 100 Leader End Line Ring... She was shocked when the box came to the door with brand new stuff for her senior project...

I would also like to thank whom ever it was, Many Thanks go out to you!!!

[tuckermtn]

I stand by my expression that "it takes a village to make maple syrup"

wasn't me who sent it though...good on whoever it was...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Thank You!!!

Paul @ http://stainlesssteelcreations.net/ for donating a Preheater

She Loves it, Thank You!!!

Thank You

[Haynes Forest Products]

So when you want to put a real preheater on it let Jim or me know:) Then you can go wit a hood and really get the heat up

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

We have had many request to stop by and see the orchard and the sugar shack in question or to lend a helping hand with labor...

We are usually out in the orchard working on Sundays, but not this Sunday as it is Mothers day...

For those who want to stop by and see the orchard or the shack or lend a helping hand with labor or equipment the directions are on this site!!!

http://www.blueacorninn.com/

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Thank You!!!

stoweski @ http://www.beesofthewoods.com/ for donating North American Maple Producers Manual

Nijmeh @ http://maverickhousewares.com/ for donating a CT-03 Oil/Candy/Fryer Thermometer

Richard Jackson @ http://www.voorheesrubber.com/ for donating Rubber Candy Molds and a Book

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

I would like to Thank Matt and Jessica Williams of WH Supply... As they are the only Maple Equipment Dealer/Supplier that has made a donation to my Sister In-Laws Senior Project...

They are the US distributors for THOR and h2O innovation maple equipment...

WH Supply
Matt Williams, Owner
833 Machia Road
Sheldon, VT 05483

(802) 868-0941
(802) 868-0942 (fax)

[3rdgen.maple]

wow you are certainly making some good progress on your equipment and sugaring needs. cant wait to see some spring sugaring pictures.

[adk1]

yes, good luck, all of us up and comers need it!

[Flat Lander Sugaring]

I would like to Thank Matt and Jessica Williams of WH Supply... As they are the only Maple Equipment Dealer/Supplier that has made a donation to my Sister In-Laws Senior Project...

They are the US distributors for THOR and h2O innovation maple equipment...

WH Supply
Matt Williams, Owner
833 Machia Road
Sheldon, VT 05483

(802) 868-0941
(802) 868-0942 (fax)


what manufacturer products due they sell?
might help if i read previous posts thatnks:)

[RunInCircles]

This is such a great project, and it's wonderful to see the support!

Since it sounds like this is tied to school, I'm sure she has to keep records or a journal of some sort--but has your sister-in-law considered blogging about her project and the progress?

U.S.M.C.Cpl, you're doing a fantastic job documenting the progress on here for us in the MapleTrader community, but in addition if she were to make a blog not only could it stir additional general interest in the community, but I also think it would be neat to hear in her own words. Schools these days are starting to recognize the value of blogs as legitimate media for writing, so it could even be part of her project presentation. It might take a little time to update now and then, but could end up saving her a lot of time at this point next year.

Just a thought. Looking forward to making my way up to Sunapee one of these weekends!

-JJ
(one of those newfangled high-tech teacher types)

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

This is such a great project, and it's wonderful to see the support!

Since it sounds like this is tied to school, I'm sure she has to keep records or a journal of some sort--but has your sister-in-law considered blogging about her project and the progress?

U.S.M.C.Cpl, you're doing a fantastic job documenting the progress on here for us in the MapleTrader community, but in addition if she were to make a blog not only could it stir additional general interest in the community, but I also think it would be neat to hear in her own words. Schools these days are starting to recognize the value of blogs as legitimate media for writing, so it could even be part of her project presentation. It might take a little time to update now and then, but could end up saving her a lot of time at this point next year.

Just a thought. Looking forward to making my way up to Sunapee one of these weekends!

-JJ
(one of those newfangled high-tech teacher types)

I agree with you 100%, but she is the outdoors type, ski all winter, and swimm all summer, she is not on the computer as much as I am.. So she lets me handle the computer end of things... I get stuck with the camera too...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Well The Rain has slowed us down some... Money has slowed us down more... Bad month Had to register the cars and get them inspected, so that will put off buying any supplies... I guess the 3/4" mainline will have to wait... I hope to be able to afford to buy her a roll of it next month so that she can start running it... With some help of the members here on Maple trader...

Also added more Thank yous to Post #1 in this thread, and also added pics to the donations album...

Thanks All

[flooder]

what did wh supply donate to the cause?

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

I will have to check my e-mails, but i think Matt and Jessica said they are going to send 5/16" Tubing, but I just got off the phone with my sister in-law and she said nothing has arrived from them yet...

Matt and Jessica seemed like very nice people and were very pleasent to deal with...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Sorry Birthday weekend, No work this week so no updates!!!

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Well its been one heck of a summer!!! I work two jobs in the Summer, so time becomes limited... I work for the Town Of Sunapee (Highway Dept), also Sunapee Fire Dept, and Osbornes Marine... My Sister In-Law was a LifeGaurd at Dewey beach this Summer, So she also had limited time...

We have recieved alot of stuff, and we still need to get stuff, we are at a stand Still right now as we have not found a despooler that we could use for a weekend to string the 12.5 gauge HT wire that we got, we were told not to cut the bands untill it was on a despooler...

We have 1200 feet of 3/4" tubing waiting at the store, it has her name on it and we have paid for it we just have to pick it up but no point if we dont have the wire up to put it on..

We also have to get saddles for 3/4" line the next time we go to Bascoms...

Again we would like to thank everyone who has helped her with her project...

We did have a number of people or business who told her by phone, e-mail, or letter that they would send her some stuff but they never did, She understands as the economy is very rough right now...

As soon as we get out of our despooler snag we will continue with the pictures of progress...

She was also very sad when most of the suppliers of lumber dropped out on her for economic reasons, so that stopped all progress on the sugar shack and we are now mainly just tubing the orchard and going to set up the arch in a temp structure for the project, who knows maybe it will be completed in her college project...

Again Thank You all For everything!!!

Anyone has a despooler we could use for a weekend it would be very helpfull, and knowledge of working with HT wire a plus too...

We will report back soon..

Any one know where we can get containers cheap, we were going to use canning jars but they are expensive...

[GramaCindy]

No need for "sorries" USMC, just glad to see you back on here. I am sorry to post that I have nothing to help you and your sister-in-law, but will look forward to your future posts! Welcome back by the way. Summer has a way of getting in the way of sugaring, but now it's "crunch time!"

[stoweski]

He's baaaaaack!

Thanks for the update. Sorry I can't help on the spinning jenny, er despooler. I assume it's the same thing though. I did see one at Tractor Supply but no idea what the price is.

It's terrible that work gets in the way of sugarin'!

Good to hear from you! Keep your head high... it may not be exactly what you want but do what you can with what you got and make some syrup! Oh, and have fun doing it!

[rookie]

plastic jugs are not that expensive at bascoms. I reuse my jugs ( ask family to save them) and by new caps from bascoms ( they're I think 10 cents or less each cap). I have also heard of people using old yuhoo bottles you can use sauce jars, anything with a medal lid will reseal when hot packed (turn bottle or jar upside down when it is packed with 180 degree+ syrup) . Not used to seeing someone so close to home, I'm originaly from newbury nh, still work there, and am on there fd. I have even brought my boat to osbournes. its a small world

And as always, Thank You for serving our country!

[3rdgen.maple]

I put all my 12.5 ht wire up without a spinning jenny/despooler. Its not necessary but helps the process. You can alway build a wooden one to get the job done if you are content on having one. Some plywood and 2x's and screws will get it done.

[rookie]

I just checked bascom's web site, you can get a blank 1/2 galplastic syrup jug for $ 1.47 each with cap or one that says maple syrup on it for $1.80.

blank gallons are $1.92, qt's $1.16 spare caps are $.10 each. etc.

if your sister in law wanted she could make a custom label on the computer, buy the blanks print it on some adhesive paper and bodda bing bodda boom.

and she could have something that say's where it came from and who made it.
That should score some more senior project points

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Ok so more saving up to do still have time I guess till the season begins, Thank for the prices, I will have to pic some up for her when we go pick up the saddles for 3/4 line... Thanks Rookie

I will try to make a despooler and see what happens...

[GramaCindy]

I just checked bascom's web site, you can get a blank 1/2 galplastic syrup jug for $ 1.47 each with cap or one that says maple syrup on it for $1.80.

blank gallons are $1.92, qt's $1.16 spare caps are $.10 each. etc.

if your sister in law wanted she could make a custom label on the computer, buy the blanks print it on some adhesive paper and bodda bing bodda boom.

and she could have something that say's where it came from and who made it.
That should score some more senior project points

I made some really neat labels using myownlabels.com, something uniquely mine.

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Ok we got On run up Today... Just the wire, no tubing, it was about 800'...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Yesterday we strung another 800' of wire, and we have another short 400' run to do...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

http://s975.photobucket.com/albums/ae235/barnhartmd051977/Senior%20Project/

That should be all the pics we have taken so far...

[BryanEx]

I think this is all just great and I regularly follow this discussion just to see how far things go but I do have to ask (perhaps because I'm Canadian)... what exactly is a "senior project" all about? Is this a high school thing, University thing, or maybe a military academy thing?

[rookie]

sunapee high school along with some other high schools require their students to pick a senior project their junior year. it has to be something big that is a requirement for gradutation. correct me if i'm wrong.

kearsarge where I went didn't require it...

[BryanEx]

Well that's just it. I graduated from West Springfield High in Northern Virginia but never required a "Project". I did however require a project to earn my Eagle Scout but that's a different situation even being Canadian.

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

I will add her paper work to the photobucket so that you may read it and see what her requirements are...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Well I guess I can not add PDF's to photobucket... When I Have some spare time I will add them to here, I have to empty my Photos here anyway as I added them to PhotoBucket...

Yes Last year she had to decide on a major project to do for her senior year... She must complete all aspects of the project to graduate... Nine times out of Ten, ONLY College Prep Schools require a Senior Project, as they involve a great deal of time and a lot of cash... Sunapee is one of the top rated College Prep schools in the US...

I can tell You she is breaking my piggy bank, as I have about $2500 invested, plus all the donations from the kind folks on this site... She will most likely go on to college and leave this project in the dust, but we will make sure someone local gets the sap and makes syrup or what not out of it...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Ok you cant upload PDF's here either... So does anyone know how I can share the PDF files with you guys???

[BryanEx]

If you email me a copy I could put it on my server and then provide the link to download it if you like.


- Bryan

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Its 26 pages and one page I am waiting for her to give to me...

I have e-mailed it to you maybe I just got an error, hang on I will try again

[BryanEx]

Okay... all 26 pages can be downloaded here (13 MB file);

Senior Project PDF (http://www.stonebriarfarm.com/imagehosting/senior_project.pdf)

- Bryan

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Bryan

Thank You!!!

I hope by sharing those papers, that those who did not believe we were doing a senior project, will help them see what she is doing and why...
It will also explain why she is doing it...
For the rest, you are more than welcome to stop by the Inn at 21 Sleeper Road in Sunapee, NH and take a look at the Progress that she has made...
Again Thank you all for your HELP and Support...

We picked up 800' of 3/4"NSF Poly Pipe today and hope to get it up tomorrow, the place we got it from had to order more so we have to wait until it shows up...

Thanks Again Bryan

[BryanEx]

No problem at all and if you need to post them online somewhere else just use this link;


http://www.stonebriarfarm.com/imagehosting/senior_project.pdf
I'll leave them on my server for as long as you like and if you have additional pages you want merged into the file just let me know.

- Bryan Ex

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Ok we tensioned 400 feet of tubing and tied it, Strung 400 feet and ran out so we did not tension or tie the last 400 feet

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Ok we are trying to put up the 3/4" Mainline does anyone have a tool we can use to put the fittings in the tubing??? Or an easy way to get the darn things in there... We tried a thermos with boiling water but did not do the trick any other way???

[GeneralStark]

Ok we are trying to put up the 3/4" Mainline does anyone have a tool we can use to put the fittings in the tubing??? Or an easy way to get the darn things in there... We tried a thermos with boiling water but did not do the trick any other way???

I wish I could help you with a tool, but I have had luck trimming the inside edge of the pipe carefully with a knife to take off the square edge and then using a small torch to heat the pipe carefully. Then I use channel locks to push the fitting into the pipe carefully of course. And then finish off with the hose clamps.

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Ok small torch we will give that a try...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Wow, what a long day!!! We put 1600' of mainline yesterday... We also drug out all of the old cable and mainline... We did run into a number of problems... We kinked the mainline once at a tee, we also didn't git it on that tee all the way... But other than that we are making great strides in progress... We did run out of those tie things so we need to make a trip to bascoms.. We also need to get saddles for 3/4" line... Dont have a clue on the saddles can anyone explain to us how to use them and install them with out the proper tools???

[tuckermtn]

what type of saddles are you using? I may have the right tool you can use...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

We do not know yet we are going to look at them when we get to bascoms... Have never used them, but it is what everone is telling her to use instead of those stupid star things... Most likely the cheapest ones bascoms sells... She had two major manufactures lined up to donate mainline and they bailed on her, so we just spent $ 500 on mainline that we really did not have in our budget... Now that she is back in school she does not have a job so she has no money again...

We still need to pick up jugs, need a another spool of HT wire as we ran out, need more ratchets as we are out of those also, Some of the suppliers bailed on 5/16 tubing and fittings so we need to pick up some of that stuff too... Personally I think Senior Projects should be outlawed... Not that I do not enjoy doing the project or helping my sister in-law, but I can not see how a family can afford to do such projects...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

She said she thinks the # at Bascoms is MFS75 for the saddles... Is that what she should get or do you guys reccomend something else???

[Flat47]

She said she thinks the # at Bascoms is MFS75 for the saddles... Is that what she should get or do you guys reccomend something else???

Those are the best in my opinion. Easy to install. Seal well.
I installed hundreds of these helping a friend and only 3 (three!) didn't seal real well. Keep in mind that you have to use a hooked connector (like the Leader one:https://www.bascommaple.com/item/lach/leader_fittings/ ) to take the load off of the saddle.

[OldManMaple]

Check out the new main line fitting from Leader. I could not find them on Leaders web page but saw some at Dave Fullers last time I was there. I'm sure Bascombs will have them

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Trying to get more Pics posted for you guys to see our progress so far, but it takes time.... You are all more than welcome to stop by the Blue Acorn Inn, in Sunapee NH and check out the maple orchard and our progress..

[rookie]

well once you guys start making syrup you could make some serious cash back. This could turn into a lucrative bussiness for you

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

We give all the sap to Osborne's Marine, we are not in it for the cash... She will boil this year and make syrup, but it will be given away at her senior project display..

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Ok maybe just maybe she can make some of her money back... How much can she sell pints for??? Or what is the going price for a pint??? Pics on the way!!!

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

New Pics!!! http://s975.photobucket.com/albums/ae235/barnhartmd051977/Senior%20Project/ Tell us what we have done wrong....

[rookie]

I've never sold it just given as gifts, but if i remember right (my figures might be slightly off) from others posting a gallon was $50
half gal was $27
a quart was like $14
and a pint was maybe $8
not positive c'mon seller's speak up you know better than me

[rookie]

I retail pints for $9.50, quarts for $15, half gallons for $27, and gallons for $45.

just copy and pasted from another post

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Thank you for the prices...

So there is nothing wrong with the mainline we installed, as we have had no comments on our updated pics of the Senior Project...

[tuckermtn]

not sure how to interpret the pictures, but do not pinch the 5/16 laterals between wire and mainline. use a fitting with a hook (lapierre slides, etc) Hollow core rope is another option, but can get crispy after being in the sun a few years

[Flat47]

Keep in mind that you have to use a hooked connector (like the Leader one:https://www.bascommaple.com/item/lach/leader_fittings/ ) to take the load off of the saddle.

I think these work really well.

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

s975.photobucket.com/albums/a...ior%20Project/

More photos added!!!

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

s975.photobucket.com/albums/a...ior%20Project/

Ok today we got out, well if it was taps it would be 34, and ran the 5/16 tubing, for one run, we have four more runs to go, and they are twice as long... Please look at the pics and let us know what we are doing wrong...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

s975.photobucket.com/albums/a...ior%20Project/

Again Today we got out another 34, what would be taps, or 17 drops... We have a couple of questions, does it go any faster with a tool to put the fitting on the tubing??? Also we have some purple tubing that was donated it has yellow lettering on it says Rutland and ST albans Vermont... What kinda tubing is it? Where do we get more of it? And how much does it cost? It is by far the best tubing we have used in this Senior project yet... Again please view the photos and tell us what we are doing wrong if anything, and if anyone is not busy this coming weekend or Sunday I should say please stop over and bring your tools and give us a hand...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Thanks To Wesley and Keven Roberts of SpringField, NH (Roberts Sugarhouse) for Loaning my Sister In-Law a tubing tool... Today we put up 30 Drops or what would be 60 taps, Plus the 17 drops or 34 taps from last Sunday, and Plus the 17 drops or 34 taps from last Saturday... That puts her at 64 drops or 128 taps... Wow she has come along way... Almost half way there!!!

s975.photobucket.com/albums/a...ior%20Project/

Update on pics.. Hope you enjoy her orchard!!!

Please Stop by and take a look or check out the pics to let us know how we are doing!!!!

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Ok She Ran out of supplies today and my bank account is dry... So her grand total for TAPS will be 189... All in all that is not bad for a Senior Project I guess... Now we have to get the stock tanks set up and plumbed and So on... Figure out how to use the Evaporator we bought her, should be fun... Dont worry I will keep you all updated on the progress of the Senior Project....

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Well, We made it up to 199 what would be taps come that time of the year... Uploading more photos right this min so it may be 5 or 10 before they are on Photobucket for everyone to view.... Again we would like to THANK everyone who has helped out in this project...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

I know not many are following us anymore... But She has made alot of progress the past couple of weeks... She and her father have built a lean to... Put a tin roof on it... Leveled the ground under the lean to... She has started laying a base pad for her 2x4 arch... I will try to get some more pics up loaded as soon as I can...

[stoweski]

Was just thinking about you guys today as I was putting up saddles & drops. Actually I was thinking it was about 40 here and I was very comfortable outside putting up the tubing. I can't imaging installing tubing in the summer!

Let us know when you're up and running!

[mapleack]

Good to hear that things are coming along, you'll be boiling before you know it!

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Was just thinking about you guys today as I was putting up saddles & drops. Actually I was thinking it was about 40 here and I was very comfortable outside putting up the tubing. I can't imaging installing tubing in the summer!

Let us know when you're up and running!

Hate the cold... Love being able to stretch the lines in shorts and a tee.... I am a firm believer if it is below 60 stay the heck inside where it is warm...

[GramaCindy]

I know not many are following us anymore... But She has made alot of progress the past couple of weeks... She and her father have built a lean to... Put a tin roof on it... Leveled the ground under the lean to... She has started laying a base pad for her 2x4 arch... I will try to get some more pics up loaded as soon as I can...

Oh U.S.M.C. Cpl, you are SOOOO Wrong WE ARE ALL WATCHING YOU TWO and YOUR PROGRESS. Keep up the awesome posts.

[rookie]

I too am very interested in your posts and always look at the new pics, its been quite a while since you posted last, wondering how you guys were doing

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Ok still no update on Pics... But she did get the base for the arch in today, got the arch set up, and ready to roll, she still needs the head tank stand and the head tank, she did get the pump mounted on the wall by the tank, tomorrow we are going to plumb it in or at least to the point where the tank should be... I will try to get pics updated tomorrow...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Again no update on pics... Still have to get the head tank stand built, and get the head tank plumbed in... Finish electrical... Planning on tappin on wed the 8th, going to take a senior project day, from school and work...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Ok new pics are up under the lean to section of the senior project folder on photobucket...

http://s975.photobucket.com/albums/ae235/barnhartmd051977/Senior%20Project/Lean%20To/

Hope you all enjoy

We still have alot of work to do...

Also we tapped 199 on gravity, and 5 on buckets, for a total of 204 taps..

[500592]

Congarts o tapping let us know on how much syrup you make

[stoweski]

Man, just think of how much she has learned over the last year! Not just sugaring but construction too! And getting "Ugg"lies covered in concrete too? :o

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

She has learned alot... No concrete, just sand to level the block base...

[stoweski]

The sand looked so smooth I thought it was concrete. Nice job!

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Had a 170gals of sap to boil so we started at around 1530 on Sat the 11th, at around midnight we were shut down due to extremely cold temps and everything freezin up, had to drain the pan bac into the sap tank as we found a leak in it.. Good new is we went from 170 gals of sap down to about 35 to 40 gals os sap, made not a drop of maple syrup, all in all it was a good day, we know what changes we need to make so we can work on those now...

Also anyone know where We can find two 275gal IBC caged totes (food grade) at a reasonabe price???

[wiam]

I do not know how far you want to go, but there are some on craigslist in Orleans VT. I have no connections with them. PostingID: 2794233251

"Have 330 Gal.Tote tanks @ 135.00,275 Gal totes 125.00,275.00 Gal totes you wash 100.00 (Had Vitamin E in them)One piece,food grade barrels blue 10.00 each they have (two threaded holes on top Also have Open top barrels with C ring clamp 15.00 and white barrels (non food grade)Same configuration and price as blue,.Can deliver within reason.754-6440"

[Flat47]

This is on the NH Farm and Garden CraigsList:
http://nh.craigslist.org/grd/2837195843.html
Food grade and decent price.

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Ok we boiled today!!! 3-pints, 3-half pints. and 2-250ml medium amber...

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Ok today we made, 6 quarts, 5 pints, and 2 250ml bottles... only had 100 gals of sap..

[OldManMaple]

Any updates on you season? Hope you made some more syrup.

[stoweski]

Been wondering the same thing. Senior Project must be over at this point... unless you're putting the taps back in during the cold snap!

[U.S.M.C.Cpl]

Wow! Sorry Guys!

Got caught up in all the work!

We made 17 to 20 gals last season. We headed out to the orchard the other day and started to repair all the fury creature damage. There was a couple hundred $'s in fury creature damage. We still have more repairs to do as soon as we find the funds.
We also have to repair the lean to as the wind caught it and blew it off the foundation. If it is not one thing it is another.
We will try again this year, i dont know how it is going to work as my sister is in main at college, and i am dealing with some medical issues. So we will either make syrup or give the sap away. dont know yet.
Sorry for not keeping you guys updated, dealing with some stuff.

Thank you all for your help and support.

Cpl Barnhart USMC

[OldManMaple]

Glad you got to make some syrup. Thats great for a poor season. Go luck this year with everything! Btw the link to the paper didn't open.