dampener / smoke shelf removal help please!

[bfunk13]

I am finally ready to tackle this install.
I picked up the stove yesterday, and the liner came today.
What is the best way to cut the firebox and dampener?
I have access to a torch, grinder, and sawzall. What thickness
would the firebox and dampener be made out of? A sawzall seems like the
way to go unless we are talking about thicker metal. My wife would freak if i brought the
torch into the living room, but it might have to do it just for fun. As far as the dampener goes,
do i just cut the 6-7 inches i need out of it, or remove it all together? I can see where it bolts to the
handle and wouldn't be hard to cut that. Is there some sort of hinge on the sides of the plate?
Or is it just held in by the handle assembly? I am really not looking forward to this, i've mentioned before
i am a big guy and don't do tight spaces well. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks, Brad

 

[bfunk13]

I will answer my own question.