1. Product Overview
The CAMMOO 13.2 Gallon Moonshine Still Kit is a comprehensive distillation system designed for home brewing. It features a main pot, a thumper keg, and a condenser, all constructed from durable stainless steel. This kit is suitable for producing distilled water, essential oils, whiskey, wine, and other spirits.
- Easy Installation: Designed for straightforward setup, even for beginners, with detailed instructions and video support.
- Enhanced Flavor & Purity: The thumper keg allows for higher alcohol concentration and flavor customization by adding fruits, herbs, or spices.
- Precise Temperature Control: Equipped with a high-quality 304 stainless steel thermometer with dual Fahrenheit and Celsius display for accurate monitoring.
- Complete Accessory Kit: Includes a water pump, PE bags, silicone rubber rings, and Teflon tape for efficient cooling and leak prevention.
- Versatile Heating: Compatible with various heat sources such as gas stoves, wood fires, and induction cookers.
2. Safety Information
Please read and understand all safety warnings before operating this equipment. Improper use can lead to serious injury or property damage.
- Ventilation: Always operate the still in a well-ventilated area to prevent the accumulation of flammable vapors.
- Heat and Pressure: The still operates at high temperatures and can build pressure. Never open the lid when the thermometer reads above 158°F / 70°C to avoid burns or steam release.
- Flammable Liquids: Exercise extreme caution when handling flammable liquids. Keep away from open flames, sparks, and other ignition sources.
- Water Cooling: Ensure a continuous and adequate supply of cooling water to the condenser. Insufficient cooling can lead to inefficient distillation and potential safety hazards.
- Legal Compliance: Be aware of and comply with all local, state, and federal laws regarding alcohol distillation.
- Supervision: Never leave the still unattended during operation.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all components are present and undamaged upon unpacking.
- Main Pot (13.2 Gallon / 50L)
- Thumper Keg (2.5L capacity)
- Condenser (2.5L capacity with copper coil)
- Thermometer (304 Stainless Steel, 0-212°F / 0-100°C)
- Adjustable 304 Stainless Steel Connection Tubes (50cm + 60cm)
- Submersible Water Pump
- Silicone Tubes for Water Flow
- PE Bags (for ice/cooling)
- Silicone Rubber Rings
- Teflon Tape
- Wrench
- User Manual
Image: All components included in the CAMMOO 13.2 Gallon Moonshine Still Kit.
4. Setup Instructions
Follow these steps to assemble your CAMMOO Moonshine Still Kit. For a visual guide, please refer to the installation video below.
4.1 Initial Cleaning
Before first use, clean all components with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar to remove any manufacturing residues.
4.2 Thermometer Installation
- Unscrew and remove the silicone gasket and screw from the thermometer.
- Insert the thermometer into the designated hole on the main pot lid.
- Turn over the lid and re-install the gasket and screw to secure the thermometer.
4.3 Connecting the Tubes
The kit includes adjustable stainless steel tubes for connecting the main pot, thumper keg, and condenser.
- Tube A (Main Pot to Thumper Keg): Unscrew the blue cap from one end of Tube A. Ensure the gasket is properly seated inside the tube. Align and tighten Tube A to the outlet port on the main pot lid and the inlet port (hole A, longer tube) on the thumper keg lid.
- Tube B (Thumper Keg to Condenser): Bend both ends of Tube B as needed. Align and tighten Tube B to the exhaust port (hole B) on the thumper keg lid and the inlet port on the condenser.
Image: Diagram illustrating the connection points for the main pot, thumper keg, and condenser.
4.4 Setting Up Water Flow for Condenser
The condenser requires a continuous flow of cold water to operate effectively.
- Attach the silicone tubes to the water inlet and outlet faucets on the condenser. Secure them with the provided clamps.
- Connect the water inlet tube to the submersible pump.
- Place the submersible pump and the water outlet tube into a container filled with cold water (e.g., a bucket with ice and water).
- Connect the copper extension tube to the condenser's distillate outlet.
Image: Close-up of the condenser showing the water inlet and outlet connections.
4.5 Installation Video Guide
For a detailed visual walkthrough of the installation process, please watch the official CAMMOO installation video:
Video: CAMMOO Still Installation Guide. This video demonstrates the step-by-step assembly of the still kit, including thermometer and tube connections.
Video: 3 Pots Moonshine Still Kit Complete with Thumper. This video provides an overview of the 3-pot still kit and its components.
5. Operating Instructions
Once assembled, follow these guidelines for safe and effective operation.
5.1 Preparing the Wash/Mash
Fill the main pot with your prepared wash or mash. Ensure the liquid level is below the connection point for Tube A to prevent boil-over into the thumper keg.
5.2 Using the Thumper Keg
The thumper keg can be used to increase the alcohol content or infuse flavors. You can add water, a portion of your wash, or flavorings like fruits, herbs, or spices to the thumper keg. Ensure the inlet tube from the main pot extends below the liquid level in the thumper keg.
Image: Thumper keg prepared for flavor customization with fruits and spices.
5.3 Heating and Distillation
- Securely close the main pot lid using the clamps.
- Start the water pump to ensure cold water is circulating through the condenser. Adjust the water inlet valve to control the flow rate.
- Begin heating the main pot using your chosen heat source. Monitor the thermometer on the lid.
- As the temperature rises, vapors will travel from the main pot to the thumper keg, then to the condenser.
- The thermometer provides a precise reading of the vapor temperature, allowing you to make timely adjustments.
- Distillate will begin to drip from the copper extension tube into your collection vessel.
Image: The integrated thermometer provides accurate temperature readings in both Fahrenheit and Celsius.
5.4 Distillate Collection
Collect the distillate in a suitable container. The first portion of distillate (foreshots) should be discarded as it contains undesirable compounds. The main body of the distillate (hearts) is the desired product. Stop collection when the alcohol content drops significantly or the temperature indicates mostly water is distilling.
Image: The still can also be used to produce high-quality distilled water.
6. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and performance of your still kit.
6.1 Cleaning
- After each use, allow the still to cool completely.
- Disassemble all components and wash them thoroughly with warm soapy water.
- Rinse all parts with clean water and dry completely to prevent water spots or mineral buildup.
- For stubborn residues, a vinegar solution can be used.
6.2 Storage
Store the disassembled and dry still components in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
7. Troubleshooting
Here are some common issues and their potential solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No distillate or very slow drip | Insufficient heat; insufficient cooling water; leaks in connections. | Increase heat; ensure pump is running and water is cold; check all connections for leaks and tighten/apply Teflon tape. |
| Low alcohol content in distillate | Temperature too high/low; wash not fermented properly; thumper keg not used effectively. | Maintain optimal distillation temperature; ensure wash is fully fermented; use thumper keg with water or a portion of the wash. |
| Leaks at connections | Loose connections; worn gaskets; insufficient Teflon tape. | Tighten all connections; replace worn silicone rubber rings; apply more Teflon tape to threaded connections. |
| Thermometer not working | Improper installation; damaged thermometer. | Re-install thermometer ensuring proper seating; contact customer support if damaged. |
8. Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 16.5 x 16.5 x 16.5 inches
- Item Weight: 13.05 pounds
- Manufacturer: CAMMOO
- Item Model Number: DP14
- Main Pot Capacity: 13.2 Gallons / 50 Liters
- Thumper Keg Capacity: 2.5 Liters
- Condenser Capacity: 2.5 Liters
- Material: 304 Stainless Steel (Thermometer, Pot, Keg, Condenser)
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or replacement parts, please contact CAMMOO customer service through the retailer where the product was purchased or visit the official CAMMOO website. Please have your model number (DP14) and purchase date available when contacting support.