New Stoker Into Forced Air Sysytem

I recently purchased a home and I am going to purchase a stoker stove (type not known yet). My forced hot air ducting in the basment runs directly on the flirst floor beam/joyces. I have had conflicting reports as to weather I can use the existing duct work due to it being on right on the first floor beams/joyces. Some state the duct must NOT be right in contact with the beams and others say it OK. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Dave

Look for the installation clearances. Most wood furnaces say 6" from the joists for the first 6 to 10 feet, then 1 inch from there. So I would look in the manual to get a safe clearance.