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Base Ray Installation

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MRQ_72
MRQ_72 Member Posts: 1

greetings,

I bought a 1950's cape code with 7" base ray on the first floor and fin tube on the second, and im renovatin the second floor and want to install new base ray instead of the fin tube. What issues may arise that I need to be aware of? ive alrread renovated the bathroom and due to spacial requirements, had a in wall radiator 14 x 20 installed.

commnets welcomed

Thank you

Comments

  • EBEBRATT-Ed
    EBEBRATT-Ed Member Posts: 18,270

    Base Ray is the best. You need special tools to assemble it. Some supply houses rent them. You will have to check around. If you find a supply that sells Burnham Base Ray they can probably help you out.

    Look for the install instructions. They want the wall behind the Base Ray insulated and you need the piping instructions. Base Ray is assembled with push nipples.

    If you can configure it with standard lengths, then no assembly will be needed

    Ironmanmattmia2
  • Ironman
    Ironman Member Posts: 7,731
    edited July 30

    The end sections (left and right) have 3/4” female threads on the outer side; the rest are push nipples as Ed mentioned. We use RTV to lubricate the nipples when assembling and to provide a good seal.

    You’ll need the draw tool to assemble them. I also place one end against a wall and tap the other end with a board and maul while tightening the draw tool.

    All of the available lengths are basically two foot sections and end pieces assembled to the desired length.

    Get the wider end caps: they will give you more adjustment and working room.

    The inside corner kit will also make installation easier.

    Bob Boan
    You can choose to do what you want, but you cannot choose the consequences.
    mattmia2
  • retiredguy
    retiredguy Member Posts: 1,054

    Is your system hot water or steam?

  • mattmia2
    mattmia2 Member Posts: 13,590

    are you keeping a radiator on the same zone in the bathroom? is it a cast iron radiator? mixing cast iron and say a steel panel radiator or copper convector will be hard to balance but a cast iron radiator should be ok.

    there is someplace online that sells baseray and rents the assembly tool. it isn't super expensive to buy either. maybe look on ebay for the tool too.

  • MikeL_2
    MikeL_2 Member Posts: 533
    edited July 31

    We use a sturdy folding table for Baseray assembly. We air test with a 30 lb gauge before mounting to the wall.

    Don't carry the assembeld units like a stretcher; upright is best. Be careful of orange / black droplets when moving units through finished floor areas.

    I work in southern CT and would loan my tool if you're nearby.