Boiler question

[Threadkiller]

Out of nowhere my boiler started making a rattling noise coming from the motor/fan housing. I took the cover off to see what I could see and spinning it by hand there was no noise. I let the boiler cycle on without the cover or baffle to see if I could see where the rattle was coming from. Suddenly it was super quiet, no more rattle. By process of elimination I discovered it was the little plastic baffle that was the culprit, yet I dont know why. Is it bad to leave this off? Obviously its there for a reason. If anything I would think it just directs the air better? I also dont want it damaging the fan or anything. In case theres any confusion it is behind this cover circled in red, second picture is the baffle itself.

 

[fitter30]

So that baffle is inside the motor housing? Rear cover doesn't have any air holes? Model and brand of burner and if theres a motor number?

 

[Threadkiller]

Sorry, that would have been helpful. Its a Beckett Model AFII 150 series. Yes the baffle sits behind that piece I circled. That cover comes off. There is an air hole at the bottom.

 

[dogdog]

I find those fans are usually squirrel cage design and it will cake with a layer(sss) of dust or grime like things over time. That it just blocks / restricts airflows. Maybe check that. Usually these are dual shaft motors it drives the fan and the oil pump if it is oil burner.

The screw on top of where you circle also adjust air flow / air fuel ratios. Should match your cone / tip of the burner

 

[fitter30]

Looks like the piece is the air adjustment for the burner all the air looks like it.flows through the motor. Correct me if im wrong. U need that adjustment. Need a feeler gauge to set the blower wheel.

Burner Manual: AFII Oil Burner | 0.40 to 1.50 GPH | AC Power | Beckett Corporation

www.beckettcorp.com

 

[Threadkiller]

Thanks for the replies guys. I put it back in. The boiler sounded like it was having a hard time starting as if the air mixture was incorrect, go figure lol. Upon further review with a stethoscope the rattling seems to be coming from the housing i circled. The tinkerer in me wants to take it apart and check things out but I'm intimidated by boiler stuff since I haven't a clue.

 

[dogdog]

If your burner is producing rich flame, you might want to call that tune up guy. That is if you are not comfortable dealing with adjusting the air intake for the burner.

 

[fitter30]

That the access to the burner. Need it setup with a flue gas analzer.