Guinness Pressure Problem

[smurph5]

I have a Kenmore Kegerator with all of the equipment to dispense Guinness but am having problems getting a "Good" Pint. Here are my settings: Hose 3/16 I.D. x 5 ft long, pressure 28-30, temp 38F, beer gas mix (75/25) in CO2 tank with CO2 regulator, stout faucet.
My problem is that when the Keg is new I get a good pour with a nice creamy head but as the Keg gets drunk then the head develops bigger and bigger bubbles and appears like it is just CO2 dispensing it. I have used multiple tanks of gas with different distributors and continue to have the same problem. I have also noticed that I am unable to increase the pressure above 30 or the beer comes out too fast. I am also not getting the distinctive whistle that I hear when Guinness is poured in a bar. Any ideas on fixing the problem? - I think it is the pressure and I can sometimes slowly increase the pressure as I drink which helps a little but this doesn't seem like the correct solution. Thanks

[ernestbud]

with your description of large bubbles that is a sypmpton of low pressure. also how long does it take you to dispense a keg you might be over carbonating also and have you tried a 70/30 blend

[smurph5]

No, I have never tried a 70/30 blend. A typical Keg takes me about 1 1/2 to 2 months but I have finished a Keg in less than 1 month and still had the same problem. I still wonder why I can't increase the pressure and get the same restriction type of flow "whistle" that bar systems seem to have.

[edramshaw]

It sounds to me like you may have lost your restrictor plate. See item 15 in this picture: http://www.micromatic.com/images/3/schema/19.gif

It has five little holes in it and the beer is pushed through them which both creates smaller bubbles and gives it that distinctive whistle. If you unscrew the black nozzle you should be able to see if it is in there or not.

[smurph5]

No - I have one but was wondering do they make different size ones? The tap I have initially didn't have one so I had to purchase on line - perhaps I bought the wrong size.

[Donbecker]

Using a blend in one tank...I don't think you'll get a consistent flow of the correct blend.

I think the gasses are two different densities...I wanted to run Guiness but am waiting until I can get a blender and do it the right way. Just my 2 cents.

[smurph5]

Well after using the same tap for a few years I finally took a second tap apart and realized that I was missing a small O-Ring (0.40 cents). My system is now working like it should. As for the blender vs one tank - I wish I could afford the blender but haven't had any problems with the mixed gas in one tank. Thanks for all the help.