It is a lot of work to remove the rubber, but it can be done. To get the bottom part off, soak the keg in a large bin such as a plastic drawer full of hot water an oxyclean for a few days, and then it should be able to be pryed off. The top is secured with a metal ring that extends about two inches greater diameter than the fitting on the top of the keg. It needs to be cut off with a hacksaw, gently so as not to damage the keg, and then the rubber can be pryed off... Or, you can leave the rubber on and use it for fermentation or serving.