My questions are many, but my brain is small. I will ask only what I can handle. A few questions at a time.

1. My garage is set up for a wood stove with a 6" flue chimney. My new (used) Small Brothers evaporator 2 X 6 is set up for an 8". can I reduce it at the ceiling? Will a longer stove pipe compensate?

2. The former owner used LP in it. I will be burning wood. He had the whole flat back of the arch filled with a combination of fire brick and just plane old 1880's red brick. Can I do the same? Other suggestions.

3. I see some manufacturers tell you to line the wood box/arch with high temp cement board and then brick. Should I do this?

Many more to follow if you can share your wisdom, it would be much appreciated.

Made about 60 gallons of syrup on a primitive flat pan/oil tank set up last year and years prior. Work schedule says get alot more efficient and FAST!