Using palstic seasonal spouts with buckets

[lyford]

I know there are other threads out there on this topic, but after searching many of them I could not find the answer to my question. When using the 5/16 la pierre polycarbonate straight clear seasonal spouts can I just press them in by hand as or do they need to be tapped in like the metal 7/16 spiles ive been using. I'm guessing if i do tap them in i would use a rubber mallet rather than a metal hammer, but I've been wrong before. Any one with experience in this? Thanks

[Pibster]

I use a metal hammer. Just lightly tap them until you hear a distinctive thud. You'll know it when you hear it.

[Ausable]

Hi Lyford - I used Grimm metal spouts for many years and tapped them in with a spile set and steel claw hammer and that worked just fine and pop the out with the hammer claw. About 3 years ago I attempted to set my first plastic tubing spile and shattered it - I only had 99 left - so I figured I'd better try something different. I remembered my old small dollar store rubber mallet and have been using it ever since. When the plastic spile is set it has a solid feel when tapped. A simple twist at the end of the season and they are free of the tree. Haven't broke a plastic spile since switching to the small rubber mallet. -----Mike-----

[lyford]

Thanks guys, Ausable I have a small rubber mallet and I'll think thats what I'll go with. I have about 10 more spiles than I plan to use so I thought I'd test tap a few of the maples i plan on thinning in the coming years to get a feel for it before i tap my production trees. Thanks again.

[psparr]

Get a good tapping bit. I used plastic this past year and used a regular bit and they leaked pretty bad.
I used the tomohawk style with a metal hammer with no problems.

[PerryFamily]

Tap, tap, thud. Done

[maple flats]

I set them with the flat side of a pair of 6" lineman's pliers. Also "tap,tap, thud-done) Then the pliers are handy for several other chores in the woods.

[Ren]

Tap,tap,thud as well! I usually use a metal hammer, but I have also used my Leatherman wave and 18 volt dewalt drill for the times I forget or misplaced the hammer.

[red maples]

you can use a sledge hammer if you have a good touch. but I found a little hard rubber mallet somewhere I wanna say lowe's I think maybe Ace hardware? cost me $3.99. best thing ever.