I keep reading stories of the same Progress owners replacing their door gasket multiple times to get rid of their smoke smell. They replace it, it works for a while, then they replace again. I also read it's a bit of a challenge to replace, to get the door closed on the new gasket. I have been burning mine 24x7 for 2 1/2 seasons and still have no problems with the original. I make a point of barely snugging the latch each time I close the door. No need to over compress the gasket, it seals fine and does not like being squished too much. Just wondering if those replacing multiple times are wrenching the door shut to tight.
Our gasket was replaced last summer when they rebuilt the stove, but it was not something we requested (we were not having smoke issues). I am sure it would have lasted several more years.
First season,,, still using mine,, door does shut easy,, but I'm betting a dollar bill will be tight.. Having a raised edge going into the gasket from the stove body makes for a good seal, even when the closed door seems like it closes without much resistance I still had a locked out dollar bill. When it comes time to replacing my seal I will install an undersized gasket and add HT silicone to the top of the gasket , with the door laying flat , I will then screed it off even with the door gasket channel, letting it sit to dry over night... Now I will have a flexible silicone gasket that seals great and never gets hard... I did this on my outdoor wood boiler door which worked great.. stayed pliable for like 3 years... Door took a 1 inch gasket, I installed a 3/4 gasket and filled the rest with HT silicone...
Got my stove Dec'11, still on the first gasket, have never had an issue with it. Door is very easy to close, and I close it without pressure...doesn't need any.
