50L keg 220v Element+controller help!

[Sloanick]

I am building my second still (unfortunately) my first still was from that reflux still tutorial sight, and doesn't reflux all that well.
I bought a 50l keg and am trying to find the most cost effective way to build a controller that i can plug into my 220v stove plug.
I keep reading and reading, night after night and there is no answer to exactly what is the best way to hook up one element that will get it up to heat quickly and then can be dialled down.
I know very little about how to wire one of these, and a diagram isn't cutting it.
if someone could do a video, or picture tutorial, that would be amazing...
also any other advice on the cheapest option would be great! maybe running 3 elements at 120v and then once up to heat only run the one, no need for a control! I don't know... I am up to try anything that isn't going to brake the bank. my wife looked pretty sour when she found out how much i spent on that last still in copper fittings alone
anyway i'm actually trying to sell that one to pay for my new build... so if you know anyone who wants an overpriced still let me know
any advice on this would be great thanks

[stillenand chillen]

http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R4 ... Categories" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" rel="nofollow

[MuleKicker]

Here if you want to build one. If your not comfortable with electronics, I wouldnt suggest it.

[moonshine guy]

I agree with MK on this one, 220vac is not something to play with. Wiring it up the wrong way could cause you more problems than you know how to deal with and cost you a high price electrion to fix your errors! The kink of controls posted here are very easy to build if you have some knowledge of electric!

[Bayou-Ruler]

Welcome aboard!

[Samohon]

Welcome to the boards Sloanick...

All sound advice from some of the electric gurus here on HD...
If your not comfy with electrics, dont meddle... Find a spark in your area...

Have fun, but do it safely friend...

[Sloanick]

Thanks for the quick replies!
I would love to be able to just buy one, but I honestly just can't afford it...
I will admit I don't know how to wire one of these, but I was an electrical apprentic for over a year, and I have wired breaker panels, and many other things, so I'm not totally incompetent.
I am a very visual learner, I'm sure if someone had some pictures on how to do this, I would have no problem making this.
I still have all my tools and everything.
Or any advice on a 120v option would be great if that would be easier...
Thanks

[Prairiepiss]

The link MK gave you is a good one. Check it out.

[Sloanick]

Yeah I that is a good one... I think it will be easier to understand when I have all the parts in my hand...
Thanks guys

[Sloanick]

I have looked this over more and feel comfortable wiring this now. I actually don't know why I thought it was so hard at first...
Just one question:
I am using a 4 prong stove plug to power this... do i tie the neutral and ground together?
are they basically the same thing? they didn't need them in the past, so i'm assuming they are basically the same thing and it is now, slightly Slightly safer...
I watched a few videos about adapting your new stove to the old plug, and that was what they were doing. I just want to be safe here. Thanks

[coppermonkey]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Metered-Variac- ... 2009wt_952" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" rel="nofollow

i use this with a 2000w element. it takes a a little while to heat up, but have great control when it gets up to temp.

[MuleKicker]

do i tie the neutral and ground together

No.
You will not use the neutral

[Sloanick]

Perfect! Thanks again