PE super insert cracked ash lip

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willywil

Member
Jan 29, 2012
19
Long Island
Hi, I am a new member trying to buy a insert. Someone is selling a pacific energy super insert with a cracked ash lip for a good price. Is this something that will effect the performance of the insert ?
 
Need more input, please. Pics?

Welcome to the forums !
 
If this is the exterior ash lip, no. It won't effect the stove performance. But keep a close eye out for other abuse.
 
A cracked ash lip should not be much of an issue, but take a close look (follow the crack and see where it ends), especially inside the firebox. Pay special attention to the welds at the upper cormers of the primary air channels.
 
You don't want any cracks that would allow outside air to enter the firebox. If by "ash lip" you're referring to the inner lip that the door seals against then it's a problem. If it's the lower lip that houses the draft control and fan switch then it shouldn't be a problem but I also can't imagine how someone could crack that area.

Welcome to the site!
 
I could see how dropping a heavy tool or even maybe a heavy split could do this.
 
PNWBurner said:
You don't want any cracks that would allow outside air to enter the firebox. If by "ash lip" you're referring to the inner lip that the door seals against then it's a problem. If it's the lower lip that houses the draft control and fan switch then it shouldn't be a problem but I also can't imagine how someone could crack that area.

Welcome to the site!

My old Pacific Insert (2005) developed cracks along the door rim. It looks like the door rim weld did not hold and a crack developed underneath. It seems that a specific manufacture period (2005-2006) of PE stoves were more prone to things like this. (fingers crossed as I have a new firebox)
 

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I am told the crack is on the outer ash lip, about the spot where the blower controls are. He said it cracked when trying to move the insert with a hand truck. The story made sense to me. What does everyone else think?
 
If that is the extent of the damage it could be fine.
 
So, the crack is to the right?
 
BeGreen said:
If that is the extent of the damage it could be fine.

+1 This will not have any impact on stove performance. As others have mentioned, check the internal and external welds; along with the steel and the condition of the baffle. I find a good bright light and a wire brush (for cleaning internal firebox welds) is invaluable for this. My camera flash brought out the crack in the door rim that I did not see under normal light. Also, other information (eg. date of manufacture, usage, etc.) helps in developing a final price.

If the stove is in good condition and the price is right, go for it. However, keep in mind, that the warranty may not be valid for the second owner. I am not sure if PE honours the warranty for multiple owners. This is something to find out.
 
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