Packing plays a critical role in sealing the fluid end and preventing premature wear or failure. Without proper installation, even high-quality packing can wear quickly and cause downtime. GD Energy Products’ Redline+ Packing is field-proven to deliver longer life and reduced downtime, with a 44% performance improvement in the field. This guide shows how to properly remove, inspect, and install Redline+ Packing to maximize these proven results.
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The following guide walks step-by-step through the removal and installation process for Redline+ Packing. These practices help ensure optimal performance for your fluid end and provide a reliable foundation for longer service life.
1. Remove the Plunger Clamp
Begin by removing the plunger clamp to separate the pony rod from the plunger.
2. Remove the Suction Cover Retaining Nut
Take off the suction cover retaining nut.
3. Remove the Suction Cover
Remove the suction cover to access the plunger.
4. Remove the Plunger
Use a plunger removal tool to pull the plunger through the bore and out the front of the fluid end. Avoid shortcuts such as hammers or pry bars.
EXPERT TIP: Always use a plunger removal tool rather than a hammer or pry bar to avoid damage and perform the job safely.
5. Remove the Packing Nut
Loosen and remove the gland packing nut.
6. Remove the Packing Set
Redline+ Packing is designed for easy removal, one of its unique features. Take out the lantern ring, then the two pressure rings, the header ring, and finally the junk ring at the back.
1. Inspect the Packing Bore Area
Check for washes or damage around the bore and confirm the threads are free from sand or debris. Repair any damage before installing new packing to avoid premature failure.
EXPERT TIP: Even small amounts of debris can prevent the packing nut from seating properly and shorten packing life.
2. Inspect the Lubrication System
Pressurize the lubrication system and confirm that lubrication flows through the check valves into the bore area. Make sure the system is operating properly before continuing.
EXPERT TIP: Verify that lubrication pressure exceeds the opening pressure of your check valves so oil reaches the bore.
1. Install the Packing Set
Lubricate the junk ring and install it with the tapered edge first and the flat side facing out. Next, install the header ring flat side against the junk ring, then the two lubricated pressure rings with the open side of the V facing the header ring, and finish with the lantern ring.
2. Install the Packing Nut
Apply minimal oil or anti-seize to the clean threads. Snug the nut to fully seat the packing, then back it off about a quarter turn to make plunger installation easier.
EXPERT TIP: Backing off the nut slightly makes plunger installation smoother without affecting proper seating.
3. Install the Plunger
Inspect the plunger for grooves or cuts and replace if damaged. Lubricate the surface, insert it into the bore, and use a plunger installation tool. Once the flange passes the packing nut, remove the tool.
EXPERT TIP: If your fingernail catches on the plunger surface, replace it; any scoring or grooves can cut packing life short.
4. Install the Suction Cover
Replace the bore seal any time the suction cover is removed. Lubricate the seal area and reinstall the suction cover.
5. Install the Suction Cover Retaining Nut
Tighten the nut with a hammer wrench to ensure the suction cover is fully secure. A loose cover can cause premature wear and stress on the threads.
6. Final Tighten on the Packing Nut
Apply 25–30 pounds of force with a packing bar to fully compress the packing components. This prevents movement inside the bore. Retighten periodically during operation as the packing wears.
EXPERT TIP: Retighten the packing nut every few stages to keep components compressed and prevent shuttling inside the bore.
Correct packing installation is key to achieving the full benefits of Redline+ Packing. Even small oversights, such as improper lubrication or incorrect tightening of the packing nut, can shorten packing life and cause unnecessary downtime.
GD Energy Products has field service technicians in every major shale play who can provide hands-on support with packing removal, inspection, and installation. For crews looking to build lasting expertise, Pump University offers in-depth training that gives your team the confidence to handle packing maintenance and other critical fluid end procedures.
By following the correct removal and installation process, operators can unlock the full performance benefits of Redline+ Packing. Field-proven to deliver a 44% increase in pump packing life, it minimizes downtime and improves operational efficiency.
With over 160 years of industry product innovation, GD Energy Products has crafted Redline+ Packing to combat core issues related to dynamic plunger sealing. Its advanced materials and refined construction provide unmatched heat and abrasion resistance, keeping frac pumps running reliably in demanding conditions.
Rigorous field testing across North America underscores its reliability and longevity, marking Redline+ Packing as a cutting-edge seal system that redefines standards in pumping technology. With proper installation, operators can maximize packing life, extend maintenance intervals, and protect their investment in the fluid end.
Learn more about Redline+ Packing.
