no header and equalizer???

Paul S_3

i went on estimate today, it was a leaking steam boiler . boiler must be replaced. radiation equals to 325 sq ft/78,000 btus. i got job going to replace tomorrow morning. question is existing boiler has one  3" inch going strainght up to a 2" inch main, no header no equalizer no hartford loop return just goes straight into boiler return tapping. system is a one pipe gravity return system , correct me if im wrong i think its a parellel flow sytem, at the ends of the 2 mains there is a main vent then it drops down to 1 inch 1/4" , should i pipe like i normally do ?, drop header, and how did it work for the last 20 years? no check valve on return...thanks paul s

Steamhead

They were lucky

for the last 20 years...... pipe it according to the instructions and do a drop header, then you'll KNOW it's right. 

Paul S_3

false water line?

also the old and new boilers water lines , when boiler will be cold the water lines do not look like they fully fill the wet return with water......should i just the boiler on blocks or fit a false water line? thanks paul s

Steamhead

I'd go with blocks

since that will also reduce the possibility of flood damage to the boiler.