Charlottesville Area Masters of Real Ale

I just saw this and thought I would post:

http://charlottesville.craigslist.org/for/1470896366.html

Thanks...have contacted seller.   Going to get started kegging soon - probably with other equipment. Do I have to have a kegerator? Can I just have the equipment and cool the keg when it will be consumed?  Any open advice?  Still a noob so any kegging wisdom is appreciated:)

I was originally reluctant to start kegging because of its initial cost, but I have been very happy since I switched (I have a three tap kegarator in my basement that I picked up from Craigslist a while ago).  The only thing that I miss about bottles is the easy of sharing with friends.  I used to be able to grab some bottles on the way out the door.  Now, I have to spend some time counter-pressure filling, which almost always is a bit messy.  But, it is great to just be able to pull a pint, and cleaning one keg is much faster than cleaning 48 bottles.

To answer your questions:
- You don't have to have a kegarator to start kegging.  You do need a CO2 tank, regulator, keg, faucet/tap, disconnects, and tubing.  You will also need something to keep the keg cold, so a fridge or kegarator ends up being the usual choice.
- You don't really want a lot of temperature variation on your keg once it is filled, as it does not make for good long-term beer storage.  It will also play havoc with your carbonation levels.  I would recommend a fridge of some sort to keep it cold.
- If you pick up a kegarator, I highly recommend replacing all of the tubing.  I also recommend eventually replacing any faucet it comes with a forward-sealing kind, as they stick a lot less.
- It will cost you some $ up front, but it is worth it.  All of the equipment will last years with reasonable maintenance and sanitation practices.

Good luck.