Terra cotta thimble diameter

[pm01]

I had a chimney sweep replace a broken terra cotta thimble. I didn't measure the inner diameter of the old thimble, but it was a close fit around a 6" stove pipe. The replacement thimble has an inner diameter of maybe 6 3/8" (not sure of the exact size), which is a very loose fit around a 6" stove pipe. Can this new thimble be made to work safely with a wood stove using a 6" stove pipe, or do I now have the wrong size thimble installed?

Thanks for your help.

 

[fraxinus]

Try this: Place a short (no greater than the thickness of the opening) piece of female pipe into the thimble. Follow with a section (same length) of pipe with male crimps at both ends These can be purchased, but can also be made with a crimper. The double ended pipe goes into the female pipe.This should provide a good tight fit, especially with heavier gauge pipe. Keep an eye on it for movement, but this should work fine.

 

[jtp10181]

I am pretty sure you fill up the gap with some mortar or stove cement. I would rather have a little extra room that have to jam the pipe in there myself.