Operation and Application / Installation information for Spark Arresters.

Operation and Application / Installation information for Spark Arresters.

Installation directions

Centrifugal type spark arrester

Below is an example of installation directions for horizontal muffler. Similar instructions shall be followed for other orientation mufflers.

The inlet tube of muffler must be attached to the exhaust system of the internal combustion engine in this application so that the inlet is vertical the muffler body (also called the shell or enclosure) is horizontal, the outlet is vertical as well, and the cleanout plug hangs straight down.

The spark arrester must be assembled to the engine exhaust on the user application within the limitations of the muffler or silencer orientation specified in the Nelson catalog or product drawing. Other positions may not function or clean out properly.

Screen type spark arrester

Below is an example of installation directions for screen type spark arrester that is attached to tail pipe.

Screen type spark arrester must be correctly attached to the outlet tube of the application's exhaust system. The exposed end of the screen should be directed into the exhaust outlet. The screen assembly is then positioned over the exhaust system's outlet tube so that the diameter hole in the tube of the screen assembly of spark arrester is concentric on the diameter hole near the end of the exhaust outlet tube. When the holes are concentric, the self-tapping screw (provided) must securely fasten spark arrester to the end of the exhaust outlet tube.

Cleaning Recommendations

Centrifugal type spark arrester

Before touching any part of an exhaust system, be sure that it has had sufficient time to cool.

Disposal of accumulated particles may be accomplished by following the steps listed below.

1)  In a safe area take precautions to collect and properly dispose of residue falling from the spark arrester trap.

2)  Keep head and face away from possible drainage.

3)  Remove the cleanout plug (pipe plug) from the bottom of the spark arrester (muffler). Some particles may begin to drain out at this time. Soot mixed with condensation or other oily liquids may also empty out at this time.

4)  Without causing deformation (or any type of damage to the spark arrester) repeatedly tap on the arrester near the cleanout plug. This may be enough to begin drainage of the spark trap.

5)  Industrial vacuum cleaners can do a complete job at this point or in a safe area start the engine. Idle in a neutral gear, if possible. Then alternate between low idle and high idle or operate the engine as required by the application for a couple of minutes. Turn off the engine and let the arrester cool again, as stated above.

6)  Replace the clean out plug.

7)  Dispose of the accumulated particles.

8)  Do this maintenance after every 250 hours of use. If any breaks in the metal or weldments are discovered, the spark arrester must be replaced.

Screen type spark arrester

After operating the engine, do not touch the muffler or screen assembly until it has had sufficient time to cool.

1) The screen type spark arrester should be removed, cleaned and inspected after every 50 hours of use.

2)  The screen type spark arrester is attached to the tail pipe/muffler shell. It is fastened with one/multiple fasteners.

3)  Loosen the fasteners and remove the screen-type spark arrester.

4)  Shake loosened particles out of the screen assembly and lightly clean the screen with a wire brush. Soak in oil solvent and again clean with a wire brush if necessary.

5)  If any breaks in the screen or weldments are discovered, the assembly must be replaced.

6)  Return the screen type spark arrester to the muffler shell/tail pipe, align the fastener holes, and tighten spark arrester with the fasteners.