VC Encore damper gasket?

[AlanS]

My stove continues to run HOT...I fear that I am now damaging a new Catalytic Converter. I ordered a full gasket set and will re-do the entire stove. However, the damper is a difficult one to do. If I remove the top of the stove, it would be easier.
Is the top cemented on? Is it possible to DIY?

 

[DAKSY]

You DEFINITELY don't wanna pull the top of your encore UNLESS you're gonna go thru an entire rehab/rebuild.
The top IS cemented to the front, rear & sides & there are (4) 1/4-20 tie-rods securing the top to the bottom plates...
You probably are going to break the tie-rods when you try to remove the hex nuts at the bottom...
It's been awhile since I tore one of these critters down, but I believe there are only 2 bolts holding the damper assembly
in there. The probelm is, that I don't remember what else hasta come outta there first...
I do know that you CAN replace the damper gasket without rebuilding the whole damn thing, tho...