Hey guys... While they are out...

Starting the metal work on my 912, I cracked the rockers open and pulled the heater tubes out. '69+ is the same style tube as all years of the 914.

Physically mine are in OK shape, no holes - just dirty.

I will probably try and clean these and wrap in HVAC aluminum tape.
Is there a way to clean the inside? I would like to not breath anything inside in. I would especially like to not purchase a new pair for $450


Just compressed air?

Inside:



The part:




Thanks!

Interesting question. Does anyone know if these tubes were made with asbestos containing materials?

Maybe a soft bristle bottle it brush whit a long stem? I cut off the loop and spin slowly in a cordless drill. I think the insidw is lined with aluminum foil

That's probably not an OEM tube. The 914 stock tubes are filled with a sound absorbing material. Correction... I can't comment about the 912 tubes.

Maybe a soft bristle bottle it brush whit a long stem? I cut off the loop and spin slowly in a cordless drill. I think the insidw is lined with aluminum foil

Just get a power home dryer clean out kit. You add the lengths like a giant GUN cleaning kit.

Drill for the spin to clean it out. I have never done this but it should work.


Bob B

We recently installed new heat tubes in our 914 rustout project. NAPA straight pipe for $60.00. In my opinion adding insulation adds problems.

The insulation dampens engine noise.
Have you used yours yet?

No, it's going to be a hot rod so I am not too concerned. These will probably never be connected to the heat exchangers anyway

I think the gun brush (more like cannon brush) solution sounds most promising, if it goes wrong I have several in stock that aren't Stoddard $'s

We also carry these $122 each

https://www.restoration-design.com/store/product/PP213B

Pete

Great info all around everyone. Thanks Pete and Rich as well. I will inspect mine closer and make the call.

This would work better than most ideas. I think the insulation is there so the longs do not heat up. It helps with thermal lag and it is just $11.
Bob B
Click to view attachment

The longs will still get hot. It'll just take longer i.e. thermal lag or a larger time constant.

I ordered the kit that @burton73 attached, if this works, I will share the info, if not I will purchase from a contact above.

Jared