Added a refractory lining to my stove

After doing some research on the forum, I decided to add some Rutland refractory cement to the front grate of my 'ole Dutchwest stove. Even though this thing is billed as a wood/coal stove, I think it was primarily designed for wood.

This stove burned coal for the first time ever on 12/10/11, and the coal grates were brand new, still wrapped in plastic from 1987. Within a month of coal burning, the front coal grate was starting to warp. There was no refractory lining, and the iron grate would often glow, even though the stove was operating in the "recommended" temperature range by the manual.



I had the stove shut down for a couple of days, and applied a coating of the Rutland cement to the front grate. The difference is amazing. The grate is running much cooler, and hopefully will last me a few seasons, until I can find myself a nice Glenwood

The corollary to the grate running cooler is that the fire can now be hotter and more efficient.