Bubble of co2 in-line (T=38F,P=14psi), Bad Coupler??

[snowshine]

Hey everyone, I have a question about some bubbles breaking out into the line above the keg coupler. I have a BM-23 (commercial) kegerator with the cooled tower, 5' of 3/16" line, at sea level running a commerical keg with a sankey tap. The keg is at steady state conditions (the pressure of 14psi has been set for a couple days at 38degF and the co2 is fully dissolved at this P and T) and I am getting an air pocket above the keg coupler seen through the clear line.

I have a Perlick Single Valve Domestic Coupler and I believe that is where the problem is occurring. It was given to me a while ago and I completely taken it apart to clean it and lubricate with keg lube. Reading through the forums has led me to believe that co2 is being leaked in from the co2 tank somehow. I have untapped and re-tapped the keg to make sure it is seated right and I have ran about 5 kegs through it before with the same symptoms. It works fine but with about 25% foam on the first beer.

I included a link to an exploded view of the exact tap I have (model 26000D):

http://www.instawares.com/Prod_PDF/PER-26000D.pdf

-Is anyone familiar with this tap and might know where I have a problem? -What parts are supposed to be lubed during disassembly/cleaning?

Thanks for the help!!

[Scott Zuhse]

What brand of beer are you dispensing. Also, this coupler has a threaded probe tip that if it is not tight and sealed, could cause an issue. Last, conduct a pressure leak test to be certain that your system is tight.

[snowshine]

>>What brand of beer are you dispensing.
It is Alaskan Amber.

>>Also, this coupler has a threaded probe tip that if it is not tight and sealed, >>could cause an issue.
Is there anything special about tightening the probe, (amount of torque)?

>>Last, conduct a pressure leak test to be certain that your system is tight.
I soaped all the connects and it passed. I have also had the system going for up to three weeks with a small 5 pound tank going and its still full (so I would assume no leaks)

Are there any parts inside the coupler that should NOT be lubricated when its cleaned and disassembled?

[Scott Zuhse]

Part 12 are only o-rings that should be lubed. Check for pressure leaks.