"T" cleanout fitting on pellet stove pipe

[smalltown]

I am pretty sure that my dealer used simpson duravent piping when he installed my Castile.

I would like to open the "T" to take a look to see how much ash if any I have in the pipe. If it's not to much trouble I would like incorporate it into a monthly or bi monthly cleaning schedule. It hasn't been opened up since the install, but I've not burt anything near a ton yet.
Yesterday while doing a regular cleaning I tried to open the bottom. It was really on there, but when I managed to reach around (rather awkwardly I might add and use two hands) I was able to turn the cover a small amount in the counterclockwise direction before it stopped. I will look around the stores for a strap wrench with a fabric band to help, so before I ruin anything by "bulling" I wondered two things.

1. Just how much I need to turn the clean-out.
2. Once I turn it enough will the cleanout drop straight down?

 

[imacman]

It only turns about 1/8 of a turn, then you need to pull/wiggle to get it out. Have your vacuum handy for when you finally get it off, just in case.

 

[smalltown]

Yes macman I was wondering about once I got it open. I was thinking a big paper back under the "T" as I opened it.

 

[imacman]

Yes macman I was wondering about once I got it open. I was thinking a big paper back under the "T" as I opened it.

If you meant paper bag, I think the vacuum is a safer & cleaner bet.

 

[smalltown]

I did mean paper bag I just thought that if there was ash in the "T" that it would come out in one big woosh and the vac would not catch it fast enough

 

[ablejoy]

I pulled my tee cap after 1 ton last year cap was full and then some. I would have the vac ready and the bag is a good idea. I like the blower idea better going to try that after a ton of pellets.