SP135 Heat Exchanger "Quickie Clean"

[Forkliftt]

Along with several other recent engine projects I replaced the HE zincs and used a "shrimp peeler" (made of plastic) to clean out some tubes and improve flow till I have time to have them cleaned. After pulling the end plate I used a shop vac before and after to remove the crumbled zincs and marine growth.

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I also had borrowed my Buddy's Jabsco impeller puller (not wanting to pry on the brass pump with screw drivers) and it was WAY too big to pull mine, he has a 49 Gulfstar with Detroits. So I pulled out some fuel line pliers and used it to remove the impeller and it worked great.

 

[hollywood8118]

Steve,

That was a great visual representation of your exchanger service, one additional thing you might try is to remove both end caps and run a length of brass welding rod through each tube... this will ensure no zinc pieces are stuck in any of the tubes. I can be a pretty small brazing rod as this will be really flexible and work around most things that get in the way

HOLLYWOOD

 

[Forkliftt]

That's a good idea, then you could push from the backside and assure it's clean all the way through.

 

[Tom.B]

I suppose it's something I will need to look at this season on the Perkins too. Thanks for the look. Doesn't make me less scared of the task, however.