Maintaining vacuum from 3/16 to mainline

Rapitube is a bit more expensive, but can certainly be faster to install than wire, and easier to fix if a tree falls on it, so it depends upon which you prefer. Just make sure it is tensioned properly when installed and you'll be happy with it.

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Originally Posted by DrTimPerkins

Find some sugarmakers nearby who use tubing somewhere nearby and take a look at their tubing systems. Or take a tubing course from Cornell if they offer one in your area. A general overview of tubing systems can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6lp...&index=9&t=57s There are also other videos there on specific tubing installation techniques. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2K...JgJT749KgnE-aA

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Thanks for these suggestions, I am going to take a look this evening. Yes, we've utilized our local Cornell Co-Op Ext office quite a bit since moving to our new property so I will check out what they may have to offer.

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Originally Posted by DrTimPerkins

Rapitube is a bit more expensive, but can certainly be faster to install than wire, and easier to fix if a tree falls on it, so it depends upon which you prefer. Just make sure it is tensioned properly when installed and you'll be happy with it.

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Got it, I can see where that would make sense. The one thing that I was not as keen on was the wrap-around anchor setup - I sort of figured a heavy-duty eye-bolt could better maintain the health of the anchor tree.

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Originally Posted by maple flats

For info on Rapitube start here https://youtu.be/L6u2Hg_YgqE
To get more info search "Rapitube for maple sap"
It costs more to buy but saves lots to install and maintain.

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Thanks, and in regard to using the 5/16 for drops what is the reason for that?

As a tree freezes it causes a vacuum inside that can pull sap back into the tree from the drops. The 5/16 reduces the amount of sap that will be pulled back in due to the larger amount of air (gas) in the drop. This can contaminate the hole with bacteria from your lateral. It also gives you more options on spouts.

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Originally Posted by Super Sapper

As a tree freezes it causes a vacuum inside that can pull sap back into the tree from the drops. The 5/16 reduces the amount of sap that will be pulled back in due to the larger amount of air (gas) in the drop. This can contaminate the hole with bacteria from your lateral. It also gives you more options on spouts.

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Ahh, gotcha. That's a great tip.