Re: stoves
Posted by: dhaley <dhaley@...>
pretty steep price for the type of stove you are buying if you were buying
it in IN, TN or MN. Many consider these stoves unsafe but I have a couple
of Mennonite friends that use theirs. You have to be VERY VERY careful
there are no leaks in your gas lines and check often for leaks due to the
fact it is an old stove. If you don't plan to hook up the gas that's great
too. When looking for a woodcookstove here are some things I'd consider.
Check the firebox. Look for any cracks. They can usually be repaired but
if it's looking close to burning through...don't buy it. It usually costs
more to repair than it's worth.
Stand back and take a good level look at the cooktop, is it warped? If so,
it will only continue to get worse. When they get warped they start to leak
smoke into your house. (dangerous) Look for severe pitting in the top, if
it's got severe pitting the cook top will have a greater chance of cracking
rendering your stove useless.
If you decide to go ahead with the stove but would like to replace some
parts you can always contact Topeka Seed and Stove. They can order
replacement parts for most of the old stoves.
Talk to Bill. 1-800-541-2758
Depending on where you live you can buy a brand new Baker's Choice
woodcookstove that is made by the Amish. It's new and airtight for around
$600. If you are in an area where they normally deliver often there is no
shipping. In addition, you may be able to purchase a refurbished stove. (I
do have leads on those too.) If you want to email me off list with the
state you live in I may be able to help you find one. In 1999 I helped one
Amish man sell 27 stoves! I guess woodcookstoves have sort of become a
hobby with me.
My parents in Washington state are currently restoring a stove that's
similar to what you are looking at. Please don't be scared off with my
post. These can be o.k. stoves but depending on the design and age many are
no longer safe to use. Just be careful. I found a stove like what you are
describing at an antique store in Middlebury, IN and told a gal off another
list I used to be on. She bought that stove for $40. Went home and had it
up and running in 2 weeks. They took the stove completely apart and made
sure there were no cracks or worn areas.
As with any woodstove...please install a carbon monoxide tester.....it's a
lifesaver...Deanna in MN