Setting the rig up off the floor?

[DougM]

As we plan for the new sugarhouse, I was thinking (while feeding the fire) how nice it would be if the rig were about 12 or so inches off the floor: less bending over to feed it.
One thought I had was to put it on 2 courses of block, since we have some sitting around we could use.

Anyone have any input on that idea?

My 4x12 is off the floor one 8 inch block size. It leaves a bigger hole under the grates for the ashes to fall too. You have to block off the hole or you might get too much draft. I use a piece of sheet metal for that. I do have to stand on a milk crate to skim the flue pan. That would be one downside.

Ray

[michaelh05478]

Doug, I had my 2x6 off the floor 1 block high...Made it a little eaiser to fire up, i've also seen where they'll have 2 levels of cement....like a sunken livingroom floor....Like having a pit for the fire box....lets them fire up with less work......

[powerdub]

Mine is also blocked off the floor. Much easier on the old back.

[Salmoneye]

I have mine only one full firebrick thickness off the floor...But then I am on a wooden floor in the Wifes' greenhouse :wink:

[syrupmaker]

Doug....A new sugar house requires a new evaporator! The way Michael talks how happy he is with his new rig ,oil might be the answer. Would really save the bending over and you wouldn't need a cat walk to look over your pans.

Rick

[mapleman3]

My thought exactly!! although the additional noise could drive ya out of the sugarhouse, would need a noise cover...

My evap is 8" off the floor also, much better on the back!!

[DougM]

We're going to have to settle for new pans... for our rig it will be about $3500 for those, plus the cost of framing lumber for the sugarhouse... I may have to start practicing saying "Would you like fries with that?"

[syrupmaker]

No fries thanks,but can i get a hot apple pie with syrup on the side? :P

[WESTVIRGINIAMAPLER]

Doug,

I have my evaporator on three courses of firebricks and about 8" inches off the floor. I have pics on my website if you would llike to look.

My arch is already 32" high, so I only put if off the floor for ashes as it was plenty high already.

[michaelh05478]

Jim, My oil burner is quitier than i thought it would be....Its a sweet humming noise...........Not that bad..... 8)

[mapleman3]

I'm liking the idea more and more Mike...looks like it may be a done deal!!

[WESTVIRGINIAMAPLER]

I know they used to make used oil burners. I would be curious to know if anyone knows whether they are still available or not because about anyone could get a good supply of used motor oil for free or next to nothing :?: :?: