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Thoughts on Assembling WM Boiler from Sections

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dkirkwood
dkirkwood Member Posts: 24
in Strictly Steam

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.

Comments

  • Jamie Hall
    Jamie Hall Member Posts: 26,853

    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!

    Br. Jamie, osb
    Building superintendent/caretaker, 7200 sq. ft. historic house museum with dependencies in New England
  • EBEBRATT-Ed
    EBEBRATT-Ed Member Posts: 19,635

    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.
    Intplm. Member Posts: 2,835

    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.

    EBEBRATT-Ed
  • pecmsg
    pecmsg Member Posts: 6,787

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

  • EBEBRATT-Ed
    EBEBRATT-Ed Member Posts: 19,635

    @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.

    Intplm.
  • pedmec
    pedmec Member Posts: 1,245

    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
    ChrisJ Member Posts: 17,075
    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/

    Single pipe 392sqft system with an EG-40 rated for 325sqft and it's silent and balanced at all times.

  • pedmec
    pedmec Member Posts: 1,245

    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. 

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