W.Vamapleler I am in Northern Pa. Butting up against NY state. My secretary has family down where you are.
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W.Vamapleler I am in Northern Pa. Butting up against NY state. My secretary has family down where you are.
Sugarmaster,
I thought you were in Pa, but hadn't checked out the names to see exactly. I usually tap around Feb 10th, so I was curious as you were talking second week in Feb.
I have been watching the accuweather every day. There is some warm days coming up but not enough in a row worth an early tap. Every year it's different so I just keep watching. Last year we had a long run the 13th thru the 15th of Feb then it froze hard.
How long does it take you to tap and how many helpers do you have?? I would guess you can average at least 500 taps per day per tapper??
Most years we have had 9 to 13 tappers. this year I am alittle worry. a few of my guys got called back to work so I'm short tappers. If its a good day my guys can do a thousand taps a day, barring any problems they have. Also these guys have been doing this most of their lives and they are young!! Not like us "old" guys that have to go alittle slower. I am very lucky to have them.
Do you use gas tappers or some other type??
We have replaced all of our gas tappers with 18v drills. an assortment of brands. Most work the same. My ramrod fix up a battery charger in the back of his truck so the guys wouldn't have to come back to the sugarhouse when the batteries gave out. They get about 250 to 300 holes per battery.
What kind and size of drills are you using to get 250 to 300 taps per battery and what speed are you tapping on??
I get 140 to 150 taps on my 18 volt Hitatchi cordless drill on low speed.
Sugarmaster,
the reason I was asking, I talked to Jack the other day and he said that you were thinking about it but you need a few more degs on those days coming up.
I plan on presidents day week end. I have a 3 day weekend from work and I think I can get every thing in then. My hired help wont be in school then either. I used them to collect buckets last year. This year they are going to help put them out. they just dont know it yet.
To WVAmapleler Most of the drill are Makita, acouple Crafman, and something that is red?? Probably onHIGH speed if I know those guys. Batteries have to be replaced about every 2 yrs.
To Dave Y Yea Jack like to instigate stuff like that. Gets him going. Like I said I will just keep watch for now. I will post as soon as I think we are ready so you guys are up to date with what I an doing.