3/16" Check valves and spouts

[Rozzy]

I'm looking to install a small diaphragm pumps system this year with 20-30 taps on two or three runs of 3/16 tubing. I was thinking of installing spouts with check valves to eliminate the back flow into the tap hole when the vacuum is shut down, however I have has no luck finding either the check valve spouts or maple specific check valves for 3/16 line. I know I could use 5/16 spouts and drops but would prefer to keep everything 3/16" if possible so that I only need one size of tubing. Does anyone make these 3/16" fittings and could anyone point me in the right direction? Thanks.

[wmick]

Found something that might work for you... Looks like you could maybe go to a 2-piece system. adapter and spout..


https://www.bascommaple.com/item/laspstub316/316_tubing_fittings/
https://www.bascommaple.com/item/laccvadap/

[mbascom]

Bascom Maple Farms has a 3/16" one piece or a 3/16" stubby (both made by Leader) that fits Leader's regular 2-piece adapters. 16931

[Rozzy]

Thank you both for your recommendations. I forgot to mention that I had seen the stubby system with the adapters but was looking for a one piece spout since the price is the same as a stubby adapter. After looking it over again, I may go with the stubby after all since the only added cost is the one time price of the stubby spout and the adapters would make yearly change out easier.

Thanks, mbascom, I didn't see the 3/16 one piece on the website but I'm glad that they are a thing if I decide to go that route.

[Biz]

I'm using CV spouts on my lines with the Shurflo pumps too, for the same reason - there is a LOT of backflow when the pump turns off if there is still unfrozen sap in the lines. I understand that if the drops are new, the CVs don't help much, it is in the second year and beyond that they help since the lines contain more bacteria the older they get. Non CV taps could be used in the first year. But for me we are only talking about $15 difference per 100 taps, so it's cheap insurance even if the lines are new.

Also I learned that if using 5/16 drops, there is less of a tendency for sap to draw back into the taphole. CVs should help here so maybe there is double protection. We will find out soon enough.

Dave

[Maple Man 85]

I recommend using a stubby with a seasonal spout for the first season (because the tubing system is new) and then when you change spouts go to CV this is what the research supports on Proctor Maple.