Homemade arch question

[lfdiaff]

I just finished my homemade arch tonight. Well actully ran out of mig wire so my lincoln told me I was done. I am behind the 8ball so to speak. I wasnt planning on tapping for another 2 weeks but this michigan weather has put a wrench in that plan. My pan is gonna be welded up tomorrow hopefully and would like to boil asap before the trees get buds. A couple quick questions. Am I gonna be ok without fire brick. Will it just not be as hot or will it ruin my arch? Question 2 is how much longer do you guys think the sap will flow before the trees bud. Here are some pics of my arch. let me know what you think. It is set up to run a 26"x46" pan.52715272

[TC matt]

i'd suggest using firebrick and/or refractory insulation - especially if you're going to be forcing any air into it. you'd hate to warp your arch.