2nd year

[1951oliver88]

We started last year with 10 taps on the stove with an amish made pan. Looking to upgrade we have two options just looking for some advice. Option 1 buy a small brothers 2x6 complete setup which appears to be in good shape. Option two we found pieces parts where i could take an old King 3x14(which needs work) cut it down and have a 3x4 flat pan with dividers and drawoffs on both sides. The second woul be about half the price but more of my time. like to o about 100 taps this year and go from there.

[adk1]

Well, that is a tough one. If it were me, I would go with the 2x6 complete. IT will probably hold its resale better once you get bigger if you do than a modified homemade jobby. Just my thoughts. I bought an older Leader 2x6 King Pan setup for $2000. And this was new in the early 90's. I thought it was a decent price.

[RileySugarbush]

I suspect you already know the answer! A complete 2x6 is far better than a cut down 3x14 with a flat pan. More resale potential too.

[500592]

You could get a wf mason 2x4 for 1200

[TimJ]

2x6. no question about it. As others have said - it will retain its value as well.

[1951oliver88]

My only thought with the 3x4 was I could add a flue pan latter to make it bigger just lengthen the arch back out.

[stewardsdairy]

Go with the 2x6. Good used equipment will hold its value!

[Bucket Head]

I guess it would depend on how much time and money you have to spend, and what are your future plans? Both options have merit. I like the inexpensive way, but resale value is something to consider too. Are you planning on having a lot more taps down the road? If so, you can certainly make the old set-up bigger with different pans. However, a 2x6 with an RO in front of it can handle a lot of sap, and it won't burn as much wood as the large rig will. Usually everyone who makes syrup expands their operation somewhere along the way. Which set-up would fit your operation and budget better?

Steve

[treehugger]

The 2x6 seems to be the better choice. Also remember that you had 10 taps the previous year. A well set up 2x6 can handle up 300 taps comfortably (I know people with up to 500 that do well with it). You have a lot of growing to do. The best advide would be to don't get too big too quick. If you do, it might seem more like work than fun.