Thoughts on Assembling WM Boiler from Sections

dkirkwood

Hi,

I am homeowner and have contracted with a plumber to replace my steam boiler with a new Weil Mclain EG45. The access to the basement is very problematic, so it looks like ordering a knockdown boiler and moving the sections into basement, then and assembling the block in place from the sections is the safest way to go.

Anyone who has assembled a block from sections have any tips? Particularly, any concerns/tips regarding getting the sections to align and pull together, and any issues with leaks during hydrostatic test?

The procedure looks straightforward on paper, but interested in any advice those with experience may have.

Jamie Hall

If I recall correctly, the sections have O rings between them. HOWEVER they are not round cross section — they are square. It is easy to twist them, and the boiler may seem to seal properly with a twisted ring, but it won't — and the ring will be ruined. If the leak doesn't show up right away, it will soon enough…

So. Be verry careful, if it does have the square section O rings, to make sure they are not twisted and that they fit correctly in their grooves!!!

Otherwise… pretend it's a cylinder head when torquing the bolts holding it together. Don't just crank one down all the way and go onto the next. And use a torque wrench!

EBEBRATT-Ed

For someone who has done it before and follows the directions it isn't an issue. The block should be tested with a water pressure test at 1.5 x the working pressure so 23psi for steam and 45psi for water normally.

Intplm.

When using rope seal, I like using spray adhesive rather than the glue with a brush-on applicator. It makes for a less messy, easier install.

pecmsg

it’s done all the time.
how experienced is the installer.

EBEBRATT-Ed

@Intplm.

Yes, both Smith and Weil McLain used to send out some stuff that was like Elmers glue. The spay glue is the way to go for sure.

pedmec

i have assembled the EG plenty of times but correct me if I'm wrong the EG has been discontinued. They must have found one in the warehouse somewhere

ChrisJ

https://forum.heatinghelp.com/discussion/comment/1880013#Comment_1880013

I think you're wrong.

https://www.weil-mclain.com/products/eg-series-6-gas-boiler/

pedmec

Yes, the Weil-McLain EG series boilers are generally discontinued, with several models like the EG-65-W-PIDN and EG-55-S-PIDN listed as unavailable or discontinued on supplier sites, though replacement parts might still be found for older units. Weil-McLain lists the EG series on their discontinued products page, indicating they've been phased out in favor of newer models, but they do provide discontinued parts information for older boilers. Key Takeaways:

• Discontinued: The EG line is no longer in current production.
• Models Affected: Specific models like the EG-65, EG-55, and EG-75 are noted as discontinued.
• Parts Availability: While the boilers are gone, Weil-McLain offers information on discontinued parts, but availability isn't guaranteed and should be checked by a professional. 

If you have an EG boiler, it's best to consult a qualified HVAC technician to assess its condition and find suitable replacement parts or an equivalent modern boiler, as it's an older, discontinued product line. 

ChrisJ

https://forum.heatinghelp.com/discussion/comment/1880024#Comment_1880024

I'm assuming that's an AI response?

There are older EG series that are discontinued but best I can tell the EG series 6 is current and still active.

Steamhead

Well, as of this moment, the Series 6 EG-30 thru EG-75 are listed as current:

https://www.weil-mclain.com/products/eg-series-6-gas-boiler/

The larger light-commercial EGH series no longer appears current. The only atmospheric gas commercial boiler shown is the LGB, which has been rather short-lived. We steer clear of those.

The EG series 1-5 does show in the Discontinued section, as does the EGH.

HVACNUT

Weil McLain has the EG listed in the "Discontinued Products" section on their Pro Tools app.

ChrisJ

https://forum.heatinghelp.com/discussion/comment/1880079#Comment_1880079

I can only assume because the series 1-5 are in that category.

Steamhead

https://forum.heatinghelp.com/discussion/comment/1880103#Comment_1880103

Maybe they forgot to update Pro Tools……………

HVACNUT

https://forum.heatinghelp.com/discussion/comment/1880103#Comment_1880103

Doing a deep dive, I would assume you are correct. They list up to Series 5.

Mad Dog_2

Is the installer not sure? Inexperienced?

1. Can the stairs handle the combined weight of the boiler AND two 220lb men? Wood steps?
2. Do they have a really good handtruck with straps?

3. Have they done this before?

Mad Dog

Mad Dog_2

Gasketed boilers go together MUCH easier than steel push nipples between sections (Burnham), but you still have to take great care. Mad Dog

jimmac

A Knockdown eg-45 does not come with all apart like your thinking ! A knockdown will not have the jacket or controls on it (along with the hood,canopy,base tray with burners etc) or anything else that comes under the jacket- Your plumber would have to dissassemble the block themselves.

A undressed W/M Block is approx 18-21" wide when turned side ways- — an eg45 not very big in foot print undressed—If its not the width but the stairs that are an issue your plumber should know how to get it into the basement safely- Very frequently there aren't stairs for accesss in NYC -

Like Matt said, there not bad to put back together, but I wouldn't let a first timer do a gasketed Weil for more than one reason-

Knockdown Commercial boilers are all sections/apart not residential ones.

Mad Dog_2

There ARE companies that specialize in boiler removal/delivery. They do several of these per day and know how to maneuver stairs and tight turns, without people and property incurring damage. Worth every penny. Mad Dog