Arrgh LEAKS..self punching cartos and UDCT Tanks!

[CamelKicker]

So I have 3 of the UDCT (smoktek Locking tanks that have the notch for a flanged carto) tanks.

I decided to buy Boge XL cartos with NO flange and try self punching.

Because HEY they were cheaper . Well every one seems to want to leak.

The punch I am using is a C-Clamp style saddle valve Amazon.com: Lasco 17-0651 1/4-Inch Compression Outlet C-Clamp Style Brass Saddle Needle Valve: Home Improvement

(I have a proper circular punch and flanged Cartos on the way though and a couple of IBTanked tanks )

The cartos get deformed I guess and do not want to fit past the hole in the bottom when filling. They then get stuck thus causing air to enter and juice to leak.

Any tips on punching and keeping the carto from deforming?
I am using Kanger T3's for now but they are horrible in comparison to a carto/tank setup. I want my back!!!!

Thanks!

 

[Baditude]

Much easier to buy the laser-drilled cartos. You pay a little more, but at least you aren't wasting money like you did punching your own. I've found you usually get what you pay for.

Most punch tools in my experience inevitably deform the carto to an oval shape from it's perfectly round one. Put enough of those deformed carto's through your tank's endcaps and you are going to shred their o-rings. Then you are going to be complaining about a leaky tank. Save yourself the time, trouble, and fuss by paying a little more for the laser drilled carto's. Your tank will thank you.

These thoughts are just my opinion. If anyone is punching their own carto's and are satisfied doing so then by all means continue to do so. I just happen to believe the above makes more sense to prolong a tank's usefulness unless you don't mind changing o-rings once your tank begins leaking.


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I also recommend getting a tank accessory tool like the Slap Yo Moma. It will further protect your tank's o-rings and also speeds up assembling and filling the tank. I wouldn't be caught without one.

 

[CamelKicker]

Thanks Baditude, Yes I ended up ordering the laser punched cartos due to my issues.

You mention shredding the o-ring, I think that happened to me as I noticed something black floating in my juice when I went to set up a tank and got frustrated threw it in a pill bottle until my new cartos come in.

I will try to get through the Boge's I have that are unpunched, hopefully they will work better with the IBTanked.

I guess I will take your advice & stick with the pre-punched. The extra cost is worth it due to losing juice and frustration

 

[cocacola31173]

Thanks Baditude, Yes I ended up ordering the laser punched cartos due to my issues.

You mention shredding the o-ring, I think that happened to me as I noticed something black floating in my juice when I went to set up a tank and got frustrated threw it in a pill bottle until my new cartos come in.

I will try to get through the Boge's I have that are unpunched, hopefully they will work better with the IBTanked.



I guess I will take your advice & stick with the pre-punched. The extra cost is worth it due to losing juice and frustration

Im going to order one of those tools but what I did the first time is put one of my little drip tips on my carto before I put it into the tank. It fit through the bottom easily. But I still want one of those refilling tools so I can protect the top when I refill.