Advice on buying used Avalon Arbor Woodstove (production 04/2009)

[Simon Says]

I am close to buying a 2009 Avalon Arbor woodstove.

I would like some input on what if anything to look out for physically on these stoves in terms of wear. Essentially, what to inspect prior to purchase?

I have done some research and am aware that the stove needs good draft and dry wood partly because its secondary burn uses the downdraft method.

For full disclosure, the stovepipe would be a straight install, no bends; also, no bends to the chimney, 25-30 feet chimney. I have some dry sugar maple to burn.

I have read that the secondary burn is refractory using a ceramic activator/assist. Is this something that I will likely need to replace? The manual from what I understand suggests that the ceramic activator is supposed to last the life of the stove. Is this accurate?

Also, I will be driving the stove about an hour home if I decide to buy, should I remove the ceramic activator prior to the drive to avoid damage? I really don’t want to have to do this part as I will be somewhat tight on time!

 

[begreen]

Personally, I'd walk away from this stove unless it's free. It was not Travis's shining moment. They abandoned the design and never looked back. If the refractory components have not been replaced, they are due.