Should I make the change-7/16 to 5/16?

[Middleton Maples]

Currently I use 7/16 spouts for all my gravity systems. Should I make the switch to 5/16? What are the pros and cons of both other than the heath of the tree? If I do make the switch, can I put the spout reducer on the leader stander 7/16 spout that way I don't have to switch them all out? We have always used 7/16 spouts but it seems no one else does. Anyones' opinion would be great.

[spencer11]

you can get new plastic in the tap hole every year with the 5/16 which will increase sap yield, with just buying the extention piece every year

[spud]

Currently I use 7/16 spouts for all my gravity systems. Should I make the switch to 5/16? What are the pros and cons of both other than the heath of the tree? If I do make the switch, can I put the spout reducer on the leader stander 7/16 spout that way I don't have to switch them all out? We have always used 7/16 spouts but it seems no one else does. Anyones' opinion would be great.

I would cut all your 7/16 off and use the smart spouts for just .17 each. The sooner you can get vacuum to your system the better off you will be. If or when that happens then the new CV2 spout would be the way to go. By making these changes you would go from 40 gallons of syrup to 200+ gallons.

Spud

[wiam]

Like spencer said, the most important reason would be new plastic in tree every year.

[Sunday Rock Maple]

We have some sawn lumber that shows the stained area of the wood for both 7/16" and 5/16". The switch will be positive for tree health, tapping ease, and improved sap flow (with new every year).

[Four D Acre Farms]

Went to 5/16 plastic last year and found no loss in flow due to the smaller tap do like the idea of smaller hole to heal in the tree i still have some 7/16 taps on buckets but have thought of tring 5/16 there as well to see if there is any difference with the hole slowing sooner due to exposure to the air. money will dictate if able to change that this year. i do replace all plastic taps every year like was stated the cost versus the sap flow more than justifies the small expense hope to be around 1100 taps on tubing and gravity this season god luck