The Steamboating Forum

Have an older model Madison-Kipp SVK Lubricator and have discovered the "glass" in the Sight Glass unit (part #50032) is cracked, needs replacing. Does anyone know of where I might find an unknown source for this dated part?

Madison-Kipp's Lubricator division was bought by KLS Lubriquip, which was then bought by Graco Inc. Graco is able to sell me the higher rated Sight Glass Unit (rated to 1400 psi service) ($250.) that would still fit the pumping unit, but I was hoping to locate the same (250 psi) unit that I am currently using; hopefully at a slightly more affordable price.

Any ideas where else I might locate either a replacement glass tube for the Sight Glass Unit or the entire unit itself?

The pyrex tubing can be purchased and cut pretty easily a number of ways. MCmaster carr has it.

-Ron

I highly recommend a wheeler rex type chain cutter such as this:
http://www.toolfetch.com/wheeler-rex-69 ... 7AodZyIAAA

Tighten up around the tube, turn a few times, squeeze and POP - a perfect cut. You can flame polish it to get rid of sharp edges, but you don't really need to.

Whoever you buy the glass tubing from - buy several more tubes then you think need. Whatever cutting tool you use you are very likely to mess up some glass when you first try - and it's always handy to have spares.

I like getting my glass from:
http://www.greatglas.com/

-CB

Thanks guys, great stuff. I knew there had to be a more cost effective way to get this unit up and running again without spending too much.

Mfoxchicago/Mark,

Just a follow up....

For the wheeler rex cutters - This is a better one if you can spare twice the price ($60 instead of $30):
In addition to their easy use and reliability they are great because they can cut a whole range of glass tube sizes: This one can do 1/4" thru 1 1/2"
http://www.toolfetch.com/wheeler-rex-79 ... 7AodXiMARA

I like a redline in my water sight glass for my boiler - makes it easier to read. -- Even if you don't want this -- go for a thick wall tube as greatglas suggests:
http://www.greatglas.com/SightGlassRedline.htm

Greatglas can also cut it for you if you want, I haven't had them do that for my own stuff. No I'm not affiliated with them in any way, just a satisfied customer passing the word onto other steamers. They are worth contacting or perusing their website.

-CB

Thanks CB. I appreciate the advise and input.