Having a Hard Time Installing Chicken Nipples?

[kenh2010]

After reading posts of people having a hard time installing their chicken nipples in the bottom of bucket I thought that it couldn't be that hard. So, I bought some with grommets and tried to install them this afternoon. They were right - it is HARD! Anyhow, after several vain attempts to install the nipple into the grommet that was in the hole I came upon this helpful aid that I hope might help someone else. First, I lubricated the plastic part of the nipple with a little dish soap, then cut an 8" piece of a bamboo plant stake about the same diameter as the nipple. The hole in the center of the stake allows you to push down on the nipple without damaging the protruding stainless steel pin the makes it about impossible (maybe is IS impossible) to push the nipple into the grommet. Hope this helps someone - it sure was a relief to feel it pop into the grommet!

Ken

 

[debid]

I am completely baffled by reports of difficulty. It was not hard for me and I'm not a bodybuilder or anything. Now, I did use an 11/32" drill bit that was manufactured decades ago so perhaps drill bits aren't what they used to be and the folks having trouble can blame "Made in China". For me, the wet grommet popped right in with a thumb push. A little water and a firm push with thumb and finger grasping the red portion was all it took to seat it. No leaks, no issues.

 

[farmerinKC]

I did a search and found this thread. The OP suggested using a cut piece of bamboo stalk-unfortunately I don't have any and can't think of what I would have to do the same trick. I had a hard time pushing the grommet in-(I finally put olive oil on it). I'm thinking this is going to be an impossible task for me. I am trying to put it in the bottom of a soda bottle. Does anyone have any suggestions?