Model 3500 Damper issue...

[adkrock]

The stove is not a Lopi but nearly half the cost. Mainly, it works well except for the damper is very tight and tighter when hot. On several occasions I have pulled the little spring thingy right off the damper rod and my wife has difficulty to even get it to move. I called the company and the answer I got was to spray a lubricant on the damper... which is between the ash pan and the stove. when I asked about the dangers involving a spray lube on a hot stove it was suggested to use a "dry" lubricant spray. First, I seldom let the stove completely cool down as for now it is my main source of heat. Second, spray lube is a very temporary "fix" to the problem. Having a background in fabrication I am familiar with tolerances and the damper specifications where not adhered to, otherwise I would not be so tight as to pull the springy thingy right off the rod. Has anybody else had similar issues? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. My last, or next resort is to weld a fist sized handle to the tiny 3/16 diameter damper rod.