The second option for using a chest freezer as a kegerator is building a collar and passing shanks through it. My first kegerator was done this way, and it lasted for a few years. The great upside to this method is being able to have an unmarred chest freezer if its ever decided to be recommissioned as a food storage unit instead of a beer delivery tool.

The most simple collar is made from 2×4’s. Measure the opening and make a square of 2×4’s that can rest on the lip of the freezer. Add some weather stripping to the bottom of the collar. Take the lid off the body of the freezer and remount it to the collar. Tada, instant hight and sacrificial material for holes.

Drill the 7/8th inch holes for shanks to attach faucets too and away it goes. I’ve seen people get really worried about insulating the collar making sure that no heat can get in from outside. Really though, wood is a pretty decent insulator itself and cold air sinks. A line of weather stripping on the bottom of the collar and the weight of the lid should be sufficient. My taps were always cold and the wood was always room temp.

This option for kegerators works great where there are no children or pets that can knock open the faucets. I always kept the top of my kegerator full of junk so that cat wouldn’t get curious and open two taps. At least that was the justification for having all that junk on it.

As with option one, keep a lookout at DadCenter for a detailed description and instruction for the collar.

Cheers!