W-M steamer

Glen

W-M boiler, model LGB7S. My question is this - why is it only the middle sections crack? I've noticed this on several rebuilds. After hydrostatic testing the boiler water side - we replace middle sections, not the end sections. it raises the predictable Why? and secondly - considering this is a complete teardown - would you recommend replacement of just the cast sections - or the complete boiler. Is this typical of other brands as well?

[Deleted User]

Have numerous LGB

steamers. No problems w/ sections. Are the boilers you are repairing piped according to the notation on page 23 of the I&O Manual. "Level controls must be mounted on the same side of boiler as the equalizer and return piping."

If not, might be a good idea to do so.

Glen

Not even close -

I could take pictures - but it would leave most of the wallies laughing. Very poor piping - crammed into a corner. My repair list is long and while it should include a dropped header and a few other items this is a "fix the boiler first" and we'll think about the rest later type job. I am sure - due to the type of piping and near boiler valving - it has never even been skimmed or cleaned - sludge everywhere. I did not measure ph of the condensate but I would expect it to be low. this is not the first WM steamer that we have replaced sections - mostly in ancient hotels with little regular maintenance. We now have a new boiler inspector - the rate of PM's may change.