Removing aftercooler core

[MATTHEW SCOTT WARD]

Trying to remove aftercooler core on a 6cta. I’ve used penetrating oil and wd40, but can’t make it budge. Do I just pour wd40 in the center ports and let it soak from the inside?

Thanks,
Scott

Topic

[Tony Athens]

Stand the cooler up on end.. Pour 4-6 ounces of WD 40, or #2 Diesel mixed with ATF (1/3 ATF) into the air side, and let sit for 24 hours or more—Flip it over ( end to end) for another 24 hours or more.. Once it starts leaking thru from the inside out, you’ll get it to move. Put the cooler on a oil diaper.

Tony

[Rob Schepis]

Soak with penetrating oil via the air side. If you can bake (heat) the assembly first, even better as that will expand the aluminum housing.

[firehoser75]

Careful

Scott,
First, I have no personal experience removing a “stuck” aftercooler core. From what I have read, continue to soak it in penetrating oil, changing it end for end and adding more oil each time you do. This may take some time. Other alternative methods involve the use of “force” (carefully), such as using a properly sized block of wood and some gentle hammer strikes (on the wood). Be careful not to damage the tubes, the wood must place the force on the edges of the core. Another idea is to take it to a machine shop (or service shop) and have it “pressed out”. The core could be damaged by either of these methods. If corroded (into place) badly enough, a new aftercooler may be needed!
My advice, is to wait to hear from the Seaboard gang (Tony, Rob, etc.) and to follow their advice. My intention is to just inform you of what they MAY advise.
Good luck,
Tom

[Author]

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