Vermont Castings 2550 Service Manual page 17

33. Install the griddle. Gently tap the perimeter of the griddle to seat it against the gasket.
34. If you have replaced any major iron panels, tell the customer to re-cure the stove with
a series of four small fires, each hotter and longer than the last, to acclimate the iron
to the stresses of heat.
GASKETING
If you are replacing gaskets as part of standard maintenance, refer to the Maintenance
Section of the Owner's Guide.
If you are replacing all gaskets as while re-building a firebox, follow the instructions
given below. Prepare parts carefully. Channels must be free of old gasketing, cement
and paint, and free of dust.
Use high quality gasket cement.
**Work in an area where there is plenty of light and a level work surface. Wear gloves
and protective eyewear.**
If you will install gaskets on clean, new parts, start with step 3. If you are going to re-
gasket old parts, they will need to be cleaned. Start with step 1.
1. Remove old gaskets. If the ends of the gasket meet, note where the joint is.
2. Clean the channels. Use a hammer and cold chisel or screwdriver to remove old
cement. Vacuum the channel to remove dust.
3. Choose the correct size gasket. Cut it to the right length, allowing an inch extra for
trimming.
4. Wipe the channel to be gasketed with a damp cloth. Place an unbroken 1/8" bead of
cement in the channel. Avoid using too much cement. The cement should not
saturate the gasket, just hold it in place.
5. Starting with one end, lightly press the gasket into the cemented channel. Trim
excess gasket with shears or side cutting pliers. Do not leave any ragged ends. If the
ends of the gasket meet, there should be no gaps or overlaps. Do not stretch the
gasket as this will make it too thin. A thin gasket may not make a good seal.
6. If possible, place the gasketed part against the surface it will meet. This will seat the
gasket evenly.
7. Clean any excess cement that has squeezed out around the gasket.