Proper tapping procedure(?)

[Maverick]

Want to make sure I am following proper tapping protocol whenever I tap a new keg. So do I open the main and secondary regulator valves, adjust the PSI to where I want it, then proceed to tap a new keg? Is this the proper sequence of events? Or do I tap first, then open all valves and adjust to proper PSI?

[stn]

See excerpt below from KillianBoy's response in another thread. I can't find the thread or I'd link the whole thing, but this was for a standard coupler. Seems I remember there was a slightly different order for the low-profile couplers:

1. Open CO2 valve completely
2. Set CO2 pressure
3. Turn regulator valve to open
4. Couple coupler to keg (with handle in the "off" position)

[KillianBoy]

Maverick,
I don't know it there is a proper or right way, as long as the beer flows and don't lose gas or beer then your good. The reason for the post regarding the way to hook up keg was someone was having a problem with gas.
If you never have tapped a keg before then follow as stn re-posted, then after making sure the the coupler is turned as far clock-wise as possible (basically the coupler is held in by friction), then you tug on the pressure relief valve on coupler, you should get a hiss, if you don't get a hiss then you have problems. If you get a hiss, then your ready to push the lever on coupler to "ON" position.
After engaging, I usually tug on the relief valve one more time to reset my gauge (usually till it drops below 10 PSI), the old Chinese-made Haier regulator I use is pretty cranky (this is proper for me), you can try and tug on it and if it doesn't go back to what you had set before engaging coupler, then set to PSI you want. It should be the same as what set, but who knows, sometimes it best to double check to make sure the PSI is at right place before letting keg acclimate.
Once you know your getting the proper level of PSI to keg after several kegs, then you can do away with some steps and turn things on anyway you want as long as you don't lose gas or beer, and beer flows, again your good.
KB

[Scott Zuhse]

How about adding [URL="http://www.micromatic.com/keg-beer-blog/index.php/131/kegerator-leak-detection/"]pressure leak test [/URL]to the list? Particularly before you begin to adjust and balance. It is very difficult to assure that the low pressure gauge pointer will stay put if you have continuous movement through the regulator.