Vermont Castings Defiant Encor 2550 - Advice needed

[twigg]

I just did something I do only rarely, and that is buy on impulse.

We had been looking at an Englander 30-NC, and would have been happy with it. We appear to have missed all the end of season bargains, so were resigned to paying circa $1200.

I just bought a VC Defiant Encore 2550 dating from mid to late 90s for $480.

It looks great cosmetically, but might need a full firebox rebuild (not sure until I get my hands on it) We get that that could cost in the region of $700, but we would end up with basically a new stove, in a nice green enamel, that would meet our needs and look gorgeous.

We also understand that catalysts need periodic replacement, and are ok with that if it's not too often.

So .... any thoughts on the rebuild process and costs would be helpful. Also .... is it possible to convert these stoves to Non Catalytic?

If anyone has tried this, was it successful and how much did it cost?

 

[mtnhome]

I also bought a used VC in great shape but decided to sell it and go with the Scan I have now, I believe the VC can be a great stove but felt I was not up to the maintenence and complexity. They are beautiful and efficient but must be properly operated and maintained. It will serve you well to thourghly read and understand all you can about how these stoves work. There is a wealth of information archieved on this site if you choose to keep and use this stove. Just use the search engine. Good luck!

 

[redhat]

If it turns out your stove needs a firebox rebuild locate your nearest VC dealer and order fireback kit #5927. The kit contains the parts you will need at a much lower cost than buying individual components. If you go the rebuild route you'll also need a copy of the (broken link removed to http://www.vermontcastings.com/catalog/elements/files/2006/2003101_Fireback_5927.pdf), it should provide all the guidance you'll need.

The useful lifespan of a cat converter is roughly 5 years as long as it isn't abused and suffers mechanical damage. There is no way to convert a 2550 stove to a non-catalytic. IMHO the cat encore like you have is superior to the NC version, search the archives and draw your own conclusion.

Congrats on your purchase of the 2550, with proper care it will provide you many years of service.

 

[RichL35]

I can't tell you crap about operating it but I can tell you all about rebuilding one. I just finished a total teardown and rebuild on mine but I am still in process of installing it.

Congrats on the purchase of your 2550. It is a beautiful looking stove that hopefully will provide you years of warmpth.

Redhat is absolutely correct with the Fireback Kit. The kit is a huge savings over buying the parts seperately. The refractory assy runs well over $300 all by itself.

I'm not going to write a book here but if you have any intrest in contacting me with questions, PM me your PH# and a good time to reach you and I would be glad to help you out.


Rich.