How to measure vacuum?

[David in MI]

I have a hair under 300 taps on gravity lines (5/16) and am wondering how effective they are. Is there a good way for me to measure the vacuum pressure I'm getting from my lines? I would also need a recommendation for the actual instrument used. Forgive me if this has been asked/answered before; I couldn't find it using the search feature.

I would also like a good way to measure the vertical distance (head?) from the uppermost tap to the collection tank. I have a GPS for my car. Would this be effective or is it not precise enough? (assuming it has an altitude feature)

Thanks!

[TunbridgeDave]

I use an old Dairy vac gauge, but I think you can find one cheap online. The second part is easy. Use google earth.

[Starting Small]

Do you have all of your taps going to a larger mainline or are they all on 5/16? How has your flow been?
-Dave

[The Sweet Spot]

If you look in the GPS'ing for elevation you will find some good information. A GPS might not give you an accurate elevation. I had to research my elevation on line through topographic maps. It will show you a decent idea of where your lines are. They did not have my lines right but very close and the elevation should be correct. Where are you in Michigan David?

[David in MI]

Do you have all of your taps going to a larger mainline or are they all on 5/16? How has your flow been?
-Dave

I have a bunch of runs of around 25-35 per run, no mainlines. No flow yet; I think we'll be tapping this weekend.

[David in MI]

If you look in the GPS'ing for elevation you will find some good information. A GPS might not give you an accurate elevation. I had to research my elevation on line through topographic maps. It will show you a decent idea of where your lines are. They did not have my lines right but very close and the elevation should be correct. Where are you in Michigan David?

I have access to a topo map of my area & will take a look at that. Our farm is in Ortonville.

[David in MI]

I've never used a transit but my Dad has one so maybe we can have a little project together in the spring.

I would still like to hear how you guys measure the vacuum in your lines. Any good stuff out there?

[5050racing]

Anderson s I think have a gauge for 6 bucks??

[morningstarfarm]

For vac gauges go to fw Webb...just bought 20 there for 3 bucks each...just ask for the maple syrup gauges...