Moline two pipe system

Al Letellier_9

The system is here in Maine, and the more I read the more I'm convinced it's a mogrel system. Hot water style rads, no traps, restrictor type valves on some rads, has a vapro regulator but no evidence of bushing traps or union traps.
I'll be doing a complete system survey next week and will keep you informed, also some pics.....this one will be a challenge.....thanks for the reply.

Al Letellier_9

Moline system

Ok, the thing I love about steam work is that the longer you do it, sooner or later you'll see something you've only read about. I came across my first Moline system the other night and the call came from the "Find a Pro" section. Great folks, a grand old house and I want to help them out with this old system. It doesn't heat evenly, the boiler is an old asbestos covered Smith Mills 17 and the vapor trap doesn't work...the indicator bar is jammed.
Any "pros" out there with experience with this type of system? Would love some help with do'e and don't. The boiler should be replaced. I understand about orifices in the valves and no traps, haven't surveyed the system yet or found the injector....if it's still there, and someone has installed an indirect off the boiler with no aquastat to maintain any temp....a definite oil guzzler that needs attention. Am doing research and checkng all sources for info but some first hand help would be appreciated.

Steamhead (in transit)

Boilerpro has worked on a bunch

he's in the area the Moline was manufactured in.

If the air can't get out, the steam can't get in. See if you can crack a union somewhere on the dry return. If doing this makes the system heat up, you found the problem.

If the ejector is gone, be careful. It pulled air from the system. It might be possible to re-create an ejector with pipe fittings, or you can vent the heck out of it with a bunch of Gorton #2 vents.

Where is this system located? Post some pics if you can!