Alerted by a post by Pezdogs (thank you!), I ran out this afternoon and picked up an H code/1986 26” kettle this afternoon for $20. I figured that I might flip it. Nope, I got it home and my partner saw it and she said, “I think we’re going to have to keep this one.”
It’s not in bad shape, a couple of good-sized chips on the lid, and chips where one would expect them where the inside straps are welded on, but really not bad at all. Needs a good clean-up. Grates are thankfully in decent shape. I could almost just set it up and use it as-is.
It is missing the one-touch sweep. Easy enough to replace, and I don’t even have to put in the effort to dislodge the old-style sweeps, as they’re already gone.
It is also missing one of the bowl handles. If anyone has a surplus black strap handle, I believe I can weld it in place.
It is also missing the wooden handles. I know I can order reproductions, but I’m tempted to try to make a set myself with some cherry or walnut I have on hand. If I don’t do so well, I’ll order them from someone that does a better job.
The ash pan is present, albeit a bit bent. It was inside the bowl, under the charcoal grate. (Why do I see that so often?)
All in all, a minor project. First order of business is to clean it and replace the sweep. The rest I can do even while I’m using it. (I have a plastic handle I can put on the lid temporarily.)
As always, also getting an unrusted chimney is always a plus.