I've recently gotten my old converted chest freezer up and running and hooked up 2 kegs via a manifold. My 1st 5# tank ran out quickly so I started the process to isolate all leaks. Everything downstream of the regulator was given the soapy water test and submerged in water...all connections that bubbled were tightened. Still fearful of losing another tank of gas, now a 20# tank ($45 for an exchange sounded high to me?), I started turning the tank off when not in use. My shut off value is leaking but I broke that down, lubed the washer and retightened everything...it's temporary fix but it seems to be working. However, the high pressure gauge goes from roughly 700 psi when the tank is opened to 0 after a few days, even with the tank closed. The low pressure gauge seems to be holding pressure ok, although it actually increased as the LP gauge decreased. Is this a sign that my regulator needs to be replaced or rebuilt?
I never thought I would say this but I think I miss bottling...I've wasted so much time on this over the past couple weeks...
Thanks!