Summit - Leak compression shank

[courduroy]

I have a Summit Kegerator with a compression shank at the faucet/beer line interface. I have noticeable leak where the elbow nipple connects to the shank. It looks to me the weight of the line causes the elbow connection to not be flush. I replaced the o-ring washer in the shank but my leak persists.

I am sure it is really tough to understand unless you have had the same problem or are very familiar with the compression shank. It sems alot of people have made the switch to a welded shank to eliminate this problem, but is there a fix to remain with a compression shank?

Any help is appeciated.

[courduroy]

Just an update for anyone that has had similar problems with a compression shank setup. I broke down and switch from a compression shank to a pseudo welded shank and no longer have any problems with leaks at the faucet.

I said pseudo welded shank because there actually isn't a weld at all. I simply removed the elbow tailpiece and the compression washer(small plastic piece) and replaced them with a 3/16" flat tailpiece and a hex nut coupling, you can get them at any hardware store. I had to add an extra washer because the shank on the Summit Kegerator is very short but the tailpiece is now flush (typically would be where the weld is) with the shank and I have no more problems. The hose is a much tighter fit in the top of the tower now but there is no noticeable kink in the line.

I actually think it pours better with this setup because the compression shank has a small washer located in it which cuts the flow and reduces foam.

I did place a clamp where the tailpiece connects to the beerline but it probably wasn't necessary. I think it is odd they no longer carry compresssion shanks considering they were revolutionary 20 years ago but they do tend to deteriorate faster then a welded system. I will try and update with photos of the before, after and during installation.