Vigilant® II
Coal Stove
Model #2310

Homeowner’s
Installation andOperatingInstructions
For Use in North America

0898
Vigilant
Cover 8/6/01 djt

Safety Notice: If this appliance is not properly installed, operated andmaintained, a house fire may result.
To reduce the risk of fire, follow the installation instructions. Failure
to follow instructions may result in property damage, bodily injury oreven death. Contact local building officials about restrictions and installation inspection requirements in your area.

Do Not Discard This Manual: Retain for Future Use
2000898 8/10 Rev. 10

Vermont Castings Vigilant®

WelcomeCongratulations on your choice of a Vermont Castings Vigilant II Coal Stove. With this purchase, you have made acommitment to make the hearth a place of warmth, beauty and comfort in your home. At Vermont Castings, we sharethat joy and appreciation for the hearth, and we show it in all our cast-iron stoves and fireplaces.
As you become acquainted with your new stove or fireplace, you will find that its visual appearance is matched by its
functionality, due to cast iron’s unique capability to absorb and radiate heat.
Also, Vermont Castings products are among the cleanest-burning stoves and fireplaces available today. And as anowner of a Vermont Castings stove, you are making a strong statement for pollution-free energy. But clean burning
depends on both the manufacturer and the operator. Please read this manual carefully to understand how to operate
your stove properly.
At Vermont Castings, we are equally committed to your satisfaction as a customer. That is why we maintain an exclusive network of the finest dealers in the industry. These dealers are chosen for their expertise and dedication tocustomer service. They are factory-trained to know the most minute detail of every Vermont Castings product. Contact
your Authorized Vermont Castings Dealer anytime you have a particular question about your stove or its performance.
Be assured that your cast-iron Vermont Castings stove or fireplace has been made with the utmost care and will provide you with many years of service.
This manual contains valuable instructions on the installation and operation of your Vermont Castings stove. It also
contains useful information on maintenance and assembly of this product. We urge you to read the manual thoroughly
and to keep this manual as a reference.
Sincerely,

All of us at MHSC

Table of Contents
Specifications............................................................ 3
Installation................................................................. 4
Operation................................................................ 16
Maintenance........................................................... 19
Warranty.................................................................. 27

The Vigilant II Coal Stove is listed by OMNI Test Laboratories of Portland, Oregon according to ANSI/UL 1482
for the United States and ULC S627 for Canada. The
Vigilant II Coal Stove is listed for burning coal. Do notburn other fuels. The Vigilant II Coal Stove is not listed
for installation in mobile homes.
The Vermont Castings Vigilant II Coal Stove is exempt
from the standards set forth by the Federal Environmental Protection Agency, 40 CFR Part 60.530 (g), as
stated on the permanent label attached to this appliance.

Proposition 65 Warning: Fuels used in gas, woodburning or oil fired appliances, and the products of
combustion of such fuels, contain chemicals known
to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm.
California Health & Safety Code Sec. 25249.6



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Vermont Castings Vigilant®

Specifications
Vigilant II Coal Stove Model #2310
Coal type................................. Anthracite or bituminous
Coal size........................................................ Pea or nut
Maximum heat output........................... 50,000 Btu’s/hr*
Maximum area heated................................... 2,000sq.ft.
Fuel Capacity.......................................... 45 lbs. (20 kg)
Fuel Loading.............................................................. top
Glass Panel.............................. Hi-temperature ceramic
Weight.................................................. 425 lbs. (212kg)
Flue exit position...........................................Top or rear
Flue exit size................................................6” standard...................................................................... 8” optional*This value can vary depending on how the unit isoperated, and the type and moisture content of the fuelused. Figure shown is based on maximum fuel consumption obtained under laboratory conditions and on
average efficiencies.
**These values are based on operation in building-code
conforming homes under typical winter climate conditions in New England. If your home is of nonstandard
construction (e.g. unusually well insulated, not insulated, built under ground, etc.) or if you live in a more
severe or more temperate climate, these figures amy
not apply. Since so many variables affect performance,
consult your Vermont Castings’ Authorized Dealer todetermine realistic expectations for your home.

23" (584mm)
20¹⁄₂" (520mm)

28¹⁄₄" (720mm)

31"(787mm)

VIGILANT

28³⁄,"(721mm)33M⁄,"(861mm)31³⁄,"(797mm)30¹⁄₂"(775mm)33¹⁄₂"(851mm)7M⁄," Legs

7M⁄," Legs
10" Legs

10" Legs30" (762mm)

20" (510mm)
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Fig. 1 Vigilant II dimensions.

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Vigilant Specs
8/01

2000898Vermont Castings Vigilant®

Installation
Codes and Listings
Conforming to local building codes will be an importantpart of your planning. Local authorities make the final
decision on whether or not an installation will be approved. They need to know that your installation is safe
and meets local codes.
The metal label permanently attached to every Vermont
Castings stove indicates that the stove has been tested
to current UL and ULC standards, and gives the nameof the testing laboratory. Clearance and installation
information is also printed on the label. In most cases,
local authorities will accept the label as evidence that,when the stove is installed according to the informationon the label and in this manual, the installation meetscodes and can be approved.
However, codes vary in different areas. Be sure toreview your installation plans with your local authority
before starting the installation. Check with your local
Vermont Castings Authorized Dealer for help in providing the necessary information to local officials.
This section will answer clearance and construction
questions for almost all installations. Your local Vermont Castings Authorized Dealer will also be able tohelp. For questions left unanswered, we recommendthat you refer to the National Fire Protection Association
ANSI/NFPA 211-1988 Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents and Solid Fuel Burning Appliances, or in
Canada, CSA B365. These standards are the basis formany national codes.
Remember, your local building official makes the final
decision on approvals of installations.
CAUTION: Follow all installation and use instructions
exactly. Failure to follow instructions may result in adangerous situation, including a chimney or house fire.

Chimneys and Draft
Understanding how your chimney contributes to stove
operation is essential if you are to obtain optimum performance from your Vigilant Coal Stove. The chimney
provides a safe pathway for hot smoke and exhaustgases to exit from the stove, but in addition, the chimney strongly influences the “draft” necessary for operation of your stove.
Draft is the force which produces a flow of warm gases
up and out of the chimney, and draws fresh combustion air into the stove. Your Vigilant does not comeequipped with “draft”. Draft is the result of a differencein weight (due largely to a difference in temperature)
between the gases inside the chimney, and gases outside the chimney. Because gas expands when heated,

warm gases inside the chimney weigh less than coolgases outside. This weight difference creates the pressure necessary to produce and sustain draft.
As the lighter, more buoyant gases rise up the chimney,
draft causes a flow of cooler air into the stove. Whenstarting a fire in a cold stove on an unheated chimney, it
may be necessary to provide some assistance by igniting several sheets of crumpled newspaper which havebeen placed in the flue collar area.
There are other factors which influence draft, such as
barometric pressure, wind speed and direction, theheight, configuration and size of the chimney, and theairtightness of the home itself.

Improving Draft With Outside Air
In some modern, super-insulated homes, the air necessary for combustion is inadequate due to restricted air
infiltration into the dwelling. (Infiltrated air is simply
that air which finds its way into a home through various
cracks and openings in the foundation, along windows
and doors, and at other non-weathertight areas.) If thestove is competing with kitchen or bath exhaust fans foravailable air, the situation is aggravated further. Where
poor draft is the result of a low infiltration rate, opening a ground floor window in the vicinity of the stove,or installing a permanent outside air supply, will often
alleviate the problem.
In some areas, bringing air for combustion from outside
the home directly to the air inlet of the stove is required
for new construction. When the air supply for the fireis brought directly from the outside, it is not affected byvariations in air pressure within the house. Improved
stove performance often results. An Outside Air Adaptor Kit is available from your local Vermont Castings
Authorized Dealer.

How Draft Affects Stove Performance
A strong draft will allow you to successfully fine-tune
the Vigilant’s performance by adjusting the primary air
supply to determine the rate of combustion and heat
output. With a strong draft, you can restrict the primary
air supply and lower the heat output without risk of suffocating the fire.
A strong draft will be maintained by operating yourstove so that combustion gases entering the chimney
are hot, and stay hot. Air must not be allowed to enter
the chimney without first having passed through thestove. Make sure that clean-out doors and thimbles aresealed tightly, and that the chimney is structurally sound.

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Vermont Castings Vigilant®
Weak draft situations are characterized by smoking
and odor problems in the house, low heat output, anddifficulty maintaining a fire, especially at low thermostat
settings. The reverse situation, overdraft, is rare, but
can be recognized by short burn time, poor responsewhen trying to slow down the fire, or by any part of thestove glowing red.
A more common cause of overdraft is inadequate
maintenance, such as worn gasket allowing uncontrolled air to enter the stove. Following recommended
maintenance procedures will ensure consistent stove
performance.
Following the stove manufacturer’s recommendation on
both chimney size and height will also help ensure adequate chimney flow capacity. Flow capacity measures
the ability of the chimney to evacuate combustion gases quickly. Even the strongest draft cannot overcome
an insufficient flow capacity; the result is a back up of
combustion gases in the chimney which forces smokeout of chimney connector joints or the stove itself. Remember, the Vigilant and the chimney must function asa unit. For optimum performance, they must be sizedproperly for each other. Your Vermont Castings Authorized Dealer can help you assess your existing chimney
or plan a new one for best stove operation.

Chimney Guidelines
Do not connect to any air distribution duct or system.
New Chimneys

The chimney should extend at least 3 feet above thehighest point where it passes through a roof, and at
least 2 feet higher than any portion of a building within
10 feet.
0 To 10’
2’ Min.

3’Min.

0 To 10’
2’ Min.

3’
Min.

Reference
Point

AC617

Fig. 3 The 2’-3’-10’ chimney rule.

For proper draft and good performance, any chimneyused with a Vermont Castings
wood or coal burning
AC617
stove should extendRLTSKC8
at least 16 feet above the flue col2/11/98
lar of the stove.

Existing Chimneys

Both masonry and prefabricated metal chimneys work
well.
Prefabricated Doublewall Insulated Chimney

Tile-lined
Masonry
Chimney

An existing masonry chimney may work well, but besure to have it carefully inspected before using it. Defects may have gone unnoticed if the chimney previously was used only occasionally. Defects must be
repaired before the chimney is used with your stove.
If you are not sure that you can make the inspection
yourself, your local professional chimney sweep, building inspector, or fire inspector will be able to make theinspection or direct you to someone who can.
The chimney should be thoroughly cleaned before being used with your stove.

ST241

Fig. 2 Chimney types.

A new masonry chimney should be constructed to conform to the standards of your local building code or a
ST241
recognized nationalchimney
code.
Masonry chimneys must be
types
12/13/99
djt
lined with code-approved masonryor pre-cast refractory tiles, stainless steel pipe suitable for use with coal,or a code-approved poured-in-place liner. The chimneymust have a tight sealing clean-out door.

2000898

A new prefabricated metal chimney should be one tested and listed for use with solid-fuel burning appliances
to the High-Temperature (H.T.) Chimney Standard UL103-1985 (2100° F.) and have interior walls especiallydesigned for use with coal-burning stoves. Be sure tofollow the chimney manufacturer’s instructions exactly
when passing the chimney through a combustible wallor ceiling. Special accessories may be necessary forthis type of installation.

First, check to see that the chimney has a lining. Do
not use an unlined chimney. Your local Vermont Castings Authorized Dealer or chimney sweep can help
you with information about approved chimney lining
systems. In addition, look for and repair (if necessary)these defects: (Fig. 4)
A. Improper chimney height and roof clearance; checklocal building codes for proper construction.
B. Chimney cap deterioration; rebuild.
C. Creosote stains indicate flue damage; inspect andrepair.
Vermont Castings Vigilant®
J. Loose or broken clean-out door; repair or replace.

B

Existing masonry chimneys, especially older ones, may
have two or more openings through the chimney walls
to the same flue. The openings were used to connect
stoves in different rooms to the chimney. The unused
openings must be sealed with masonry to the thicknessof the chimney wall. Unused openings sealed withpie plates or wallpaper are a hazard. In the event of achimney fire, flames and smoke may be forced out ofthese unused thimbles.

AC

DO NOT CONNECT YOUR STOVE OR INSERT TO A
CHIMNEY FLUE SERVING ANOTHER APPLIANCE.

E

Chimney Size

D

When outfitted with the standard 6” (150 mm) flue collar, The Vigilant II Coal Stove is designed to perform
well when vented through flues that have these dimensions:PrefabricatedF
G

Round Liner, I.D. 6” (150 mm)
Masonry

H

Square Liner		 8” x 8” (nominal)		
Rectangular Liner 7” x 11” (nominal)
Round Liner		 6” (inside dimensions)
A Vigilant II Coal Stove equipped with the optional 8”(200 mm) flue collar is designed to perform well whenvented through flues that have these dimensions:I

Prefabricated
Round Liner		 8” (inside dimension)
MasonryJ

Square Liner		 8” x 8” (nominal)		

H

Rectangular Liner 8” x 12” (nominal)
Round Liner		 8” (inside dimensions)ST562

Fig. 6 Existing chimney.

D. Blockage within flue; remove.
E. Improper clearance between chimney and combustible materials. Generally, a clearance of 2” (50mm.) is requiredST562
to all combustible walls and framing
members; checkChimney
local codes.
hazards
F. Improper clearance
between
12/14/00
djt smoke chamber andadjacent framing members; check local codes.
G. Creosote accumulation; chimney needs thoroughcleaning.
H. Structural deterioration of the fireplace; must be
repaired before use.
I. Loose or broken bricks or mortar; replace andremortar.


Chimneys with liners larger than 8” x 12”
may experience rapid cooling of combustion gases and reduction in draft, especially if they are located outside thehome.
These large chimneys may need to be insulated or theflues re-lined for good stove performance. Vermont
Castings offers chimney lining accessories to help
make the connection between stainless steel chimney
liners and our stoves and fireplaces.
If you are planning to vent a small stove into a large
flue, particularly an exterior masonry flue, you may findit necessary to insulate the chimney, reline the chimney,or operate the stove with the damper open to maintainhigh flue temperatures.

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Vermont Castings Vigilant®
ClearancesYour stove and chimney connector will radiate energy
in all directions when in operation. An important partof planning a safe installation is to be sure combustible
materials near your stove do not overheat due to inadequate clearance.
Clearance is the distance between your stove (or chimney connector) and nearby walls, ceiling, and floors, aswell as other combustible materials. Correct clearance
must also be maintained to moveable items, such as
furniture, newspapers, or clothes left to dry near thestove. Keep all combustibles a considerable distanceaway from the stove; 48” is a good minimum clearance. Installing your Vigilant to the tested clearance
and keeping those clearance areas empty assures thatnearby surfaces will not overheat.
Clearances must be large enough so that furniture andother combustibles near your stove will not overheat
and catch fire. Wood framing that is part of a wallor floor will dry as it ages, and its ignition point (thetemperature at which it will start to burn) will be lowered. The change may take place slowly over a periodof many years, or more quickly if the wood is near asource of heat such as a stove.
Your Vermont Castings Vigilant II Coal Stove has been
carefully and thoroughly tested by independent testing laboratories to determine safe clearances. During
testing, heat sensors installed in all surfaces near thestove and chimney connector, including floors and ceilings, show the temperatures reached during a varietyof combustion situations. Clearance distances are
accepted only when the sensors show the stove is far
enough from nearby surfaces to meet strict UL or ULC
standards.

Using The Clearance Chart
If your stove will be parallel to the wall behind it (parallel
installation), use the columns of the chart labelled “side”
and “rear”. If your stove will be installed in a corner(corner installation), use the columns labelled “corner”.
Your stove will be in either a parallel or a corner installation, not both. Use only the part of the chart that applies to your installation. Note: Side clearances do not
apply to corner installations.
Measure clearance between the edge of the stove’s top
plate and the nearby combustible surface. For mostcommon installations, when the stove has the proper
clearance from nearby surfaces, the chimney connector
will also have the proper clearance. However, installations vary. It is important to double check all installations for proper chimney connector clearance, as well
as stove clearance.

2000898

The clearance distance must be empty except for noncombustible heat shields. Air flowing between the stove(and/or chimney connector) and nearby shields carries away heat. Do not block the air flow by filling thisempty space with any insulating material.

Clearance Reductions
When no shields are used, empty space alone provides
protection against overheating. When shields are used,
it is usually possible to reduce the required clearance,as the shields offer additional protection.
Stove shields and connector shields (used only on
single-wall connectors) attach directly to the stove orconnector. Wall shields attach to wall surfaces. Combinations of the these shield types may be used.
When shields are attached to the stove or chimney connector, they are mounted 1” - 2” away from the stove
or connector surface on non-combustible spacers. The
shiny shield surface facing the heat source must be left
unpainted, enabling it to reflect heat back towards thestove or connector and away from the wall.
The greatest clearance reductions result from using
both stove and chimney connector shields in conjunction with walls which are protected with wall shields.

Unprotected Walls
Clearances With No Heat Shields
If the Vigilant is installed parallel to the rear wall (parallel installation) and no shields are used, the stove mustbe at least 20” (510 mm) from the wall behind it, and at
least 18” (460 mm) from walls beside it.

20" (510mm)

18"(460mm)ST683

Fig. 5 Minimum clearances, parallel installation, no heatshield.

ST683
Vigilant
clearances
parallel,no heat shield
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If the Vigilant is installed in a corner (corner installation)and no shields are used, the corners of the stove mustbe at least 16” (410 mm) from nearby walls. (Fig. 6)

For rear-exiting stoves, both rear and side clearances
are determined by the heat from the stove (provided
that the connector does not pass near a combustible
surface).
The rear heat shield protects the wall behind the stove
so that clearance may be reduced to 13” (330 mm),measured from the rear edge of the stove’s top plateto the combustible part of the wall. Side clearance remains the same — 18”, measured from the edge of thestove top to the side wall. (Fig. 8)16" (410mm)

16"(410mm)13" (330mm)
ST684

Fig. 6 Minimum clearance, corner installation, no heat shield.

Measure these distancesfrom the edge of the top plate
ST684
of the stove nearest theVigilant
wall to the combustible part ofclearances
the wall.
corner,Unshielded single wall chimney
connectors must be ano heat shield
8/7/01djt
minimum of 17” (430 mm) from the wall or ceiling.

18"(460mm)ST686

Fig. 8 Minimum clearance, rear exit, rear heat shield.

Clearances With Only the
Stove Rear Heat ShieldIf you install a Vigilant with a rear heat shield in aparallel installation, but use no chimney connector heatshields, different clearances will be required for top-exiting and rear-exiting stoves.
For top-exiting stoves, clearance to the rear wall isdetermined by heat from the unshielded chimney connector, not heat from the stove. Stove placement mustensure that the unshielded connector cannot overheat
the rear wall. Reminder: Use the Flue Collar Heat
Shield (#140-0924) included with the Rear Heat Shield#0175 to protect the area directly behind the flue collar.
Rear clearance must be a minimum of 20” (510 mm),measured from the edge of the stove top to the rearwall. Side clearance is determined by heat from thestove. It must be a minimum of 18” (460 mm) , measured from the edge of the stove top to the combustible
component of the unprotected wall. (Fig. 7)

20" (510mm)

For corner instllations, the clearance is 16”, measured
ST686
from the corners of the Vigilant
stove perpendicular to the wall.
clearances

Clearances With parallel,
Double-wallrear exit Connectors,
rear heat shield
Or Single-wall Connectors
And Connector
8/7/01 djt
Heat Shields
The Vigilant II Coal Stove listing includes using singlewall or double-wall chimney connectors. The rowsof the clearance chart labelled “Chimney Connector
Clearance” give clearances measured from the chimney connector to nearby walls and ceilings. (“Ceilings”
is emphasized to remind you that ceiling clearance isan important clearance that is sometimes overlooked.)
Be sure to double-check chimney connector clearances
before completing your installation.
Reminder: For top-exiting stoves using a rear heatshield, install the Flue Collar Heat Shield (#140-0924),
included with the Rear Heat Shield #0175, to protect
the area directly behind the flue collar. Instructions areincluded with the heat shield package.
When using a chimney connector heat shield on asingle-wall connector, it may only extend 24” (610 mm)
above the flue collar. The shield must come down tomeet the top of the Flue Collar Heat Shield. (Fig. 9)18"(460mm)ST685

Fig. 7 Minimum clearance, parallel installation, rear heatshield.



ST685
Vigilant
clearances
parallel,rear heat shield
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Vermont Castings Vigilant®
Protected Walls
A properly constructed wall shield may be used tochange an unprotected wall to a protected wall, allowing the clearances given in the right half of the Clearance Chart.

PrefabricatedChimneyWall shields should beconstructed of 24 gaugeor heavier sheetmetal,
1/2” noncombustible insulation board, or common
brick laid on flat (3¹⁄₂" sidedown). Shields must be
spaced out from the combustible wall or ceiling 1"
on noncombustible spacers. The spacers should
not be directly behind thestove or chimney connector.

Single-wall
Chimney Connector

Chimney
Connector
Heat Shield

24"(610mm)Max.

VIGILANT

BottomHeat
ShieldST687

Fig. 9 Chimney connector heat shields may be used to reduce clearances when single-wall connectors are used.

Clearances With Double Wall Chimney
Connectors And Rear
Stove Heat Shields
ST687
chimney connector

8/7/01
When a rear heat shieldis djtused on the stove and adouble wall chimney connector is used, the rear clearance is 15¹⁄₂" (395 mm) and the chimney connector
clearance is 12" (300 mm).

Clearances With Single-wall Chimney
Connectors, Connector Shields And Rear
Stove Heat Shields
Use of both stove and chimney connector heat shields,
on single-wall connectors, in top-exiting installations
reduces the required clearance. (Fig. 10)

Air must be able to flow
between the wall and theshield. At least one-half(50%) of the bottom 1"of the shield should be
open and the shield muststop 1" from the ceiling.
Protect the top opening
with metal screening toprevent objects from falling behind the shield.

Air FlowWall Shield
Stud Wall Framing
Noncombustible
Spacer andFasteners
Drywall

Air Flow
ST248

Fig. 11 Wall shield construction.
ST248
wall shield construction
12/14/99 djt
Rear wall shields must extend 18" above the top of thestove or to within 1" of the ceiling, must be centeredbehind the stove, and must be a minimum of 48" (1220mm) wide by 48" high.
Side wall shields must be 48" (1220 mm) wide by 44"
high, and must extend 15" (380 mm) beyond the frontof the stove as measured from a point on the wall thatis on the same plane as the door glass.

13" (330mm)

18"(460mm)ST688

Fig. 10 Minimum clearance, chimney connector heat shield,
rear heat shield.

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ST688
Vigilant
clearances
parallel,rear heat shield,
chimney connector
heat shield
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Vigilant II Clearance Chart
Stove Clearance
Unprotected Surfaces
Stove Installed Parallel to WallSide

Protected Surfaces

Stove in Corner

Stove Installed Parallel to Wall

Stove in Corner

Rear

Corners

Side

Rear

18”
(457 mm)

20”(508 mm)

16”(406 mm)7”(178 mm)13”(330 mm)

9”(229 mm)

Single-wall connector
Top exit
Rear and chimney
connector heatshields 1

18”(457 mm)13”(330 mm)

16”(406 mm)7”(178 mm)

11”(279 mm)

9”(229 mm)

Single-wall connector
Rear exit,
Rear heat shield

18”(457 mm)13”(330 mm)N/A

7”(178 mm)

11”(279 mm)

N/A

Double-wall connector
15¹⁄₂”Top exit(394 mm)
Rear heat shield

13”(330 mm)

16”(457 mm)7”(178 mm)10¹⁄₂”(267 mm)

9”(229 mm)

Single-wallconnector
No heat shields

Corners

Chimney Connector Clearance
All Installations

All Installations

Single-wall connector
No connector heatshields17” (432 mm)

9” (229 mm)

Single-wall connector
Connector heatshields installed11” (279 mm)

9” (229 mm)2

Double-wallconnector

12” (305 mm)

7” (178 mm)

Clearance to Combustibles in Front of StoveAll Installations
48” (1219 mm)
1. A ceiling heat shield, 24” (610 mm) in diameter and suspended 1” (25 mm) from the ceiling, must surround the chimney connector in installations in which the chimney connector penetrates the ceiling. The chimney connector shield extends only to24” (610 mm) above the flue colllar.
2. The ceiling heat shield required when the chimney connector shields are used should meet the wall protector. This will require
trimming the ceiling shield along the line of intersection with the wall protector.

102000898

Vermont Castings Vigilant®
floor protector must meet the same requirements as forstandard legs.

Floor Protection
Freestanding Installations
A tremendous amount of heat radiates from the bottom
plate of a Vigilant Coal Stove, and the floor beneath requires special protection. A Vigilant Coal Stove Bottom
Heat Shield (be sure to install the included shield insert
when the shorter 7M\, (197 mm) legs are used) provides
heat protection. A floor protector provides spark andember protection.
Most installations will require the bottom heat shield
together with its shield insert or “double bottom” and afloor protector be used. Only when the stove is placedon a completely non-combustible surface such as
unpainted concrete over earth may it be used without
either. In Canada, the double bottom heat shield isalways required.
When using the standard 10” (250 mm) legs on thestove over a combustible floor, a single bottom heatshield must be used in conjunction with a floor protector that consists of a minimum of one layer of 24 guage
galvanized sheet metal or .25” thick mineral board or
the equivalent. The floor protector must be at least45” (1140 mm) wide x 48” (1220 mm) deep and must
extend under the full length of any horizontal run ofchimney connector. For the 6” (150 mm) connector thatis standard with the Vigilant Coal Stove, the protector
must be a minimum of 10” (250 mm) wide, centeredunder the connector. When the optional 8” (200 mm)
connector is used, the protector must be a minimum of12” (300 mm) wide and centered under the connector.
When the shorter 7⁷⁄₈" (197 mm) legs are used on thestove over a combustible floor, the double bottom heatshield must be used as well as a floor protector. The

E
B

C

D
A

ST689

D

45” (1143 mm)
48” (1219 mm)
8” (203 mm)
16” (406 mm)
12” (305 mm)
2” (51 mm) to either side of connector

ST689requirements.
Fig. 12 Minimum floor protection

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C

A

A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.

Vigilant
floor protection
8/7/01In many fireplaces the brick or concrete hearth in frontof the fireplace opening is supported by heavy wooden
framing. Bricks and concrete are not good insulators,
so heat radiated to the hearth under the stove will passthrough the hearth directly to the wooden framing.
Such fireplace hearths must be protected like any othercombustible floor. If a bottom heat shield and regularlegs are used, the existing fireplace hearth may provide
adequate spark and falling ember protections if it meetsthe necessary size requirement of 45” x 48”. Without
a bottom heat shield (regular legs), or with the double
bottom heat shield (short legs), the hearth construction
must meet the requirements given in the previous section.
We recommend always using a bottom heat shieldwhen using regular legs, so that your hearth/floor protector may reflect your personal design preference.

VIGILANT

Heavy
Wooden Framing

ST690

Fig. 13 Additional protection may be required when thehearth is built over wooden framing.

Fireplace Mantel and Trim Clearance

F

E

Floor Protection for Fireplace Installations

If your installation will utilize an existing fireplace andits masonry chimney built
to code, you must check yourST690
fireplace mantel and trimVigilant
clearances.
Rear exit floor
dgrminstalled on
Ventilated shields (noncombustible
shields
non-combustible spac- 8/7/01 djt
Mantelers 1” away from the
combustible surface)
Spacer
may be used to reduceclearances. (Fig. 14)
1" (25mm)
Mantel and top trim
shields for the Vigilant
Coal Stove must be atleast 48” long, centeredover the stove; side trim
shields must extend thefull length of the trim.

Customformed
MantelShieldST501

1/4" (6mm)Fig. 14 A custom formed mantel shield.
ST501
mantel andtrim shield
11/10/00 djt

11Vermont Castings Vigilant®
An unprotected mantel must have a minimum clearance of 36”, measured from the stove’s top plate; with aventilated shield the clearance may safely be reduced
to 18”.
Unprotected top trim must be a minimum of 36” fromthe stove’s top surface; with a ventilated trim shield theclearance may be safely reduced to 18”.
Unprotected side trim which protrudes 2” or more fromthe face of the fireplace must have a minimum 36” ofclearance, measured from the stove’s top side edge;
with a ventilated trim shield, the clearance may besafely reduced to 18”.
Unprotected side trim which protrudes less than 2” fromthe fireplace face must have a minimum clearance of18”; with a ventilated trim shield, this may be safely
reduced to 12”. (Fig. 15)

A

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has
established guidelines for passing chimney connectors
through combustible walls. Many building code inspectors follow these guidelines when approving installations.
The illustration below shows one NFPA recommended
method, in which all combustible material in the wallis cut away from the single wall connector a sufficientdistance to provide the required 12” clearance for theconnector. Any material used to close up the opening
must be noncombustible.
Wall Stud

Chimney Connector

B
DE
FIA N

C

12”
Noncombustible
Naterial

C

ST691

			
A. Mantel.....
B. Top Trim..
C. Side Trim........ Over 2”...... Under 2”

Unprotected	Protected36” (910mm)
18” (460mm)36” (910mm)
18” (460mm)

36”(910mm)18” (460mm)
ST691
18”
(460mm)12” (300mm)
Vigilant
trim clearancesFig. 15 Maintain clearances
to combustible
mantel compo8/7/01
djt
nents.

Wall Pass-Throughs
Whenever possible, design your installation so that thechimney connector does not pass through a combustible wall. If you are considering a wall-pass through inyour installation, be sure you check with your building
inspector before you begin. Also check with the chimney connector manufacturer for any specific requirements.
Accessories are available on the market which havebeen tested and listed specifically for use as wall passthroughs. Use only these tested and listed accessories
for wall pass-throughs.

12

T

Floor Protection
ST493

Fig. 16 An approved wall pass-through method.

Three other methods are also approved by the NFPA.
•Using a section of double-wall chimney with a nineinch clearance to combustibles
ST493pipe inside a ventilated•Placing a chimney connector
Brick passthru
thimble, which is then separated
from
combustibles by
11/00 material
six inches of fiberglass insulating•Placing a chimney connector pipe inside a section ofeight-inch diameter solid insulated factory-built chimney, with two inches of airspace between the chimney
section and combustibles.

Chimney Connectors
The chimney connector should be made of 24 gaugeor heavier sheetmetal. Galvanized chimney connector
should not be used, as it may release toxic fumes when
exposed to high temperatures.
The chimney connector should be as short and direct
as possible, with no more than two 90 degree turns.
2000898

Vermont Castings Vigilant®
Horizontal runs of chimney connectors should slope
upward 1/4” per foot going from the stove toward thechimney. The recommended maximum length of ahorizontal run is 3 feet. The total length of chimney
connector should be no longer than 8 feet to preventthe cooling of flue gases.
In cathedral ceiling installations, a prefabricatedchimney should be brought down to within 8 feet ofthe stove. The whole chimney connector should be
exposed and accessible for inspection and cleaning.
Never pass a chimney connector through a combustible
ceiling.

Installation Procedures
Setting Up the Stove
Our stoves are heavy and require at least two people
to move and set them up. To make the job a bit easier,you may lift off the loading doors and remove the griddle, grates, and ashpan. Do not try to move the stovealone as the stove can be damaged by mishandling.
Place the stove close to its final position before installing the stove legs.
The griddle has not been painted in order to allow
cooking directly on its surface. In order to protect thesurface from rust during shipping, a coating of oil has
been applied. Be sure to wash the griddle thoroughlywith soap and water. As the stove is used, the griddle
will gradually darken to match the color of the stove.
Your Vigilant Coal Stove arrives completely assembled
except for the installation of the legs and handle holder,
and the assembly of the removable handle. The only
tool needed are a 9/16” wrench, used to tighten the legbolts.
So that you can easily secure the first section of chimney connector pipe to the stove, three holes have been
drilled in the flue collar and three sheetmetal screws areincluded in the hardware package.
If you have ordered any accessories such as heatshields, they will come with their own installation
instructions. Generally speaking, nothing more complicated than a screwdriver is involved in the installation ofaccessories.

The Removable Handle
The removable handle is inserted into the front door
stub or the damper handle stub when you want to open
or close the doors, or change the position of the damper. The handle is removed when not being used so it
will not get hot, and stored in the handle holder installed
on one of the front legs.
To assemble the handle, pass the long threaded screw
through the ceramic shaft and into the bright metal
insert. Tighten until snug; do not overtighten.
2000898

Chimney Connector Dampers
Because of the draft requirements of our stoves, we do
not recommend the use of an in-flue damper. Not onlyis this an unnecessary restriction in the flue, but it is anadditional surface directly in the path of the flue gases
upon which deposits can form, creating a potential hazard. Combustion air entering your Vigilant Coal stoveis controlled effectively by the thermostat, so no flue
damper is required.

The Chimney Connector
Assembly•

Assemble the chimney connector beginning at theflue collar of the stove, keeping the crimped ends
towards the stove. Using the holes in the flue collar
as guides, drill 1/8” holes in the bottom of the firstsection of chimney connector, and secure it to theflue collar with #10 x 1/2” sheetmetal screws.
• Align the seams of the individual sections. Secure
each joint between sections of chimney connector,
including telescoping joints, with at least three sheetmetal screws.
• Secure the chimney connector to the chimney. Instructions for various installations follow.
• Be sure the installed stove and chimney connector are
correct distances from nearby combustible material.
Your dealer may offer a variety of specialty pipe pieces
to simplify the installation, including slip pipes andthimble sleeves that can be used to form telescoping
joints between sections of chimney connector. Telescoping joints may eliminate the need to cut individual
sections of connector.
Chimney

Flue

Elbow

Flue
Liner

Slip Pipe
ThimbleStandard
Connector
Oval to Round
Connector

Flue Collar

ST693

Fig. 17 An exploded view of the chimney connection in afreestanding masonry installation.

ST693
Vigilant
freestanding
installation

13

Vermont Castings Vigilant®
Securing the Connector toa Prefabricated Chimney

Securing the Connector toa Masonry Chimney

Follow the installation instructions of the chimney
manufacturer exactly as you install the chimney. The
manufacturer of the chimney will supply the accessories to support the chimney, either from the roof of thehouse or at the ceiling of the room where the stove isinstalled.

Both freestanding masonry chimneys and fireplacemasonry chimneys may be used for installation of yourVigilant II Coal Stove.

Again, your dealer can supply a variety of specialty
pieces to simplify the installation. Some adaptors, forexample, enable you to make an attachment directly
to the chimney or to the chimney’s ceiling support
package. The bottom of the adaptor is screwed to thechimney connector. (Fig. 18)

Freestanding: If the chimney connector must passthrough a combustible wall to reach the chimney, follow
the recommendations in the Wall Pass-Through section.
Thimble Sleeve
Chimney Connector

Some pieces are designed so the top end will fit outside
the inner wall of the chimney, and the bottom end will
fit inside the first section of chimney connector. In thisway, any soot or creosote falling from the inner walls of
the chimney will stay inside the chimney connector.
NOTE: For double-wall chimneys with an outside
dimension greater than 10¹⁄₄", or with triple-wall chimneys, check with the manufacturer of the chimney forthe right trim collar to finish the installation.
Roof Support
Package

PrefabricatedChimney

ST693

CollarST694
Prefabchimney connector
8/7/01 djt

Fig. 19 The thimble, made of either ceramic or metal, mustbe cemented securely in place.

The opening through the chimney wall to the flue (the“breech”) must be lined with either a ceramic or metal
cylinder, called the “thimble”, which is securely cementST243
ed in place. Most
chimneybreeches incorporate thimthinble connection
bles, but check to
be suredjtthe fit is snug and the joint
12/13/99
between thimble and chimney wall firmly cemented.
A thimble sleeve, available from your local dealer, will
facilitate the removal of the chimney connector for
inspection and cleaning. The thimble sleeve is slightly
smaller in diameter than standard connector pipe andmost thimbles.

Once it the thimble sleeve is installed, the chimney connector should be attached to it with sheet metal screws.

ST693
Prefabchimney connector
8/7/01 djt

Lacking a thimble, a suitable length of chimney connector can be extended through the breech to the innerface of the flue liner, and securely cemented in place.
Additional pieces of connector are then attached withsheetmetal screws.
Above a fireplace
ST694

Fig. 18 Special pre-fab chimney connectors may be available
from the chimney manufacturer.

14

ST243

The thimble sleeve should protrude 1-2” (25-50 mm)
into the room, and should be sealed in place with furnace cement and thin gasketing.

Chimney
SupportPackage

Prefab Connector

Keep sleeveend flushwith flue tile

It is installed by sliding it into the breech until it is flushwith the inner wall. It should not extend into the actual
flue passage, however, since this could interfere withthe draft.

Prefab Connector

Prefabricated Chimney

Flue

In this installation, the chimney connector goes up fromthe stove, turns 90 degrees, and goes back into thefireplace chimney. The liner of the fireplace chimney
should extend at least to the point at which the chimney
2000898

Vermont Castings Vigilant®
connector enters the chimney. Follow all the guidelines
for installing a chimney connector into a freestanding
masonry chimney, and watch these additional points:

Thimble Sleeve
Flex Connector

Mantel Shield
Fireplace Adapter
MantelVIGILANTVIGILANT

Damper - closed
and locked
BottomHeat
ShieldBottom Heat
Shield

ST696
ST695

Fig. 20 In this installation the chimney connector is attachedto the chimney above the fireplace.

•

If there is a combustible
ST695 mantel or trim, check thestove and chimney
connector clearances in the
Vigilant
Clearance Chart. above
Use thenecessary combination of
fireplacemantel, trim, and 8/8/01
connector heat shields to provide
the required clearances.
• Double check connector clearance from the ceiling.
• The fireplace damper must be closed and sealed
to prevent room air from being drawn up the flue,
reducing the draft. However, it must be possible tore-open the damper to inspect or clean the chimney.
Through a fireplace
When installed through a fireplace opening, the chimney connector goes back from the stove, enters thefireplace cavity, turns upward, and passes through thefireplace damper opening and smoke chamber, andfinally to the chimney flue. Watch these points:••

Fig. 21 In this installation, the chimney connector enters thefireplace opening and thenconnects to chimney.
ST696

•
•

fireplaceconnector pipe. Do
not make the narrowest width
flex connector
less than 5¹⁄₂".
8/8/01The damper should be removed if possible, or
sealed in the open position if removal is impossible.
A seal must be provided so that room air is not
drawn into the fireplace and up the chimney, reducing draft. The Vermont Castings Flex Connector
System provides a convenient method for making
the required seal and offers a flexible stainless steel
chimney connector which can be bent to allow passage through most narrow damper openings.

Note: Do not vent your Vermont Castings stove
into a factory-built (zero-clearance) fireplace. Zeroclearance fireplaces and their chimneys are specifically designed as a unit for use as fireplaces. It may
void the listing or be hazardous to adapt them forany other use.

If there is a combustible mantel or trim, check thestove and chimney connector clearances in the
Clearance Chart. Use the necessary combination ofmantel, trim, and connector heat shields to provide
the required clearances.
When passing the chimney connector through thedamper opening it may be necessary to “ovalize” the200089815

Vermont Castings Vigilant®

Operation
The Vigilant Controls

FuelHigh quality fuel gives best results

The Thermostat Lever
Adjust the thermostat lever to control the heat level.
Move the thermostat lever to the left to make the fireburn hotter. Move it to the right for less heat.
The thermostat regulates the heat level when the stoveis operating by controlling the amount of combustion
air entering the stove. The heat level is based on thesetting of the thermostat lever and the strength of yourchimney’s draft. (Refer to Page 4 for more information
on draft.)Less Heat

Rear View

The Vigilant II Coal Stove is designed to burn anthracite(hard coal) or bituminous coal (soft coal). Do not burnother fuels. As shipped from the factory it is set up to
burn bituminous coal.
If you wish to burn anthracite, call your Vermont Castings Authorized Dealer, and request that your stove be
modified to burn anthracite. The dealer will make themodification and attach a label to the top of the ashdoor stating that the stove has been modified to burn
anthracite, and warning against burning bituminous
coal in the modified stove. If your stove has the label
attached to the top of the ash door, it has already been
modified.

More Heat
Thermostat
Lever

Thermostat

Do not burn bituminous coal in a stove which has been
modified to burn anthracite. Burning bituminous coalin a stove which has been modified to burn anthracite
could cause very high temperatures and create a hazardous condition.

Air Inlet Flap
Air Inlet
ST697

Fig. 22 The components that regulate incoming air.

The Damper
Use the internal damper
to control the direction of exST697
haust flow within the stove.
Damper controls
When the damper is open,
smoke
8/8/01
djt goes directly to thechimney. The resulting heat warms the chimney andhelps develop and maintain the strongest draft.
When the damper is closed, smoke —and heat— isheld in the stove longer. This results in more heat radiated into the room and less heat going up the chimney.
The Vigilant II Coal Stove may be set for a long burnwith the damper either open or closed. However, somechimneys may require the extra heat provided when thedamper is open for best operation.
The thermostat lever will continue to control the amountof combustion air entering the stove to ensure a steadyheat output.

16

Pea or nut-sized coal, either anthracite or bituminous,
may be burned. Anthracite coal that has a low ash
content will provide more heat with less ash than mostother types of coal. Your fuel dealer may be able toprovide you with information about the ash content of
the coal he sells.

Coal should be stored under cover to maintain dryness.
Even for short term storage, keep coal a safe distancefrom the heater and keep containers of coal out of theareas around the heater used for refueling and ash
removal.

Starting a Coal FireThe most important step to a successful coal fire isto build a thick bed of hardwood or charcoal briquettecoals on the grates. Coal requires a high ignition
temperature compared to wood, and a concentrated
ember bed is necessary to get a coal fire going. In addition, the heat produced during this step is necessary
to warm the flue and establish a strong draft.
Follow this procedure to start a coal fire:
1. Cover the grates with crumpled newspaper. Add alayer of short, finger-sized kindling wood, preferably
hardwood. NOTE: Do not build the fire close to
the glass. Open the damper, close the griddle, andmove the thermostat lever to the left.
2. Light the paper, and once the kindling is burning
briskly, add a layer of larger wood or untreatedcharcoal.
2000898

Vermont Castings Vigilant®
3. Continue building up the fire until there is a thick bedof hot embers on the grates.
IMPORTANT: Don’t hurry this part of the burn. Inadequate preheating of the chimney system is the mostcommon cause of poor coal stove performance.
NOTE: The cast iron plates in your Vigilant will “season” as they heat and cool over a period of time. The
thermal shock of very rapid temperature changes cancause the cast iron to crack. NEVER build a roaring firein a cold stove.
4. Add a moderate layer (1” - 2” ) of coal. When thisis burning well, indicated by a blue flame just above
the first layer, you may add coal layer by layer. Be
sure each new layer is burning well before adding
the next layer.
CAUTION: Hot while in operation. Keep children,
clothing, and furniture away. Contact may cause
skin burns.
5. Coal may be loaded to the top of the front grill, andto within one inch of the exhaust ports in the top of
the left and right side plates. Keep the coal level atleast an inch below the exhaust ports.
SAFETY NOTE: Do not burn garbage or flammablefluids such as gasoline, naphtha, or engine oil. Do
not use charcoal lighter fluid or any flammable liquid to kindle or re-establish a fire in your coal burning stove. Also, never use self-starting charcoal
briquettes. The volatile gases given off by thesematerials when heated may explode if ignited.
Caution: Follow these instructions carefully to get thesafest, most efficient results with your stove. Failure
to follow these instructions may result in a dangerous
chimney or house fire.

Daily Operation
Surface Thermometer
Use a surface thermometer to monitor stove performance.
The Vigilant’s surface temperature, determined by placing a stove thermometer in the middle of the griddle,
can provide helpful information about how the stove isperforming.
Surface Thermometer

The normal range of operating temperatures is between
400° and 700° F, although temperatures slightly outsideof this range may be expected. However, if temperatures go above 700° F for extended periods, decrease
the air supply (move the thermostat lever to the right)
and slow the fire to avoid overfiring.
When starting a new fire, or after re-loading the stove,
leave the damper open until the surface temperaturereaches at least 500° F. Do not close the damper on afire before it is well-established.
If the surface temperature drops below 400° F, revive
the fire by one of the following:• Increase the air supply by moving the thermo
stat lever to the left.
• Open the damper.
• Clear ash from the grates and empty the ash
pan.
• Re-load the stove.
• Add a layer of untreated charcoal or non	self-starting charcoal briquettes.
• If the coal needs to be re-ignited, try placing asmall amount of very dry, finely split kindlingon top of the coal bed. The heat producedby the burning kindling will increase the draft,
and the improved draft will increase the air flow
through the coal bed to create better conditions
for ignition.

Internal Damper
The internal damper provides operating flexibility
Operate the Vigilant with the damper open when starting the fire, when re-building the fire after a long burn,or when burning a small fire with moderate heat output.
Close the damper only after establishing a strong fire
and a good draft by burning the stove with the damper
open.
Because installation characteristics vary, the time necessary to establish a good draft may also vary, from approximately 5 to 30 minutes or more. Exterior chimneys
are generally more difficult to heat up, and may require
the longest period of time.
On large and/or outside chimneys, the damper may
always need to be open for the flue to be sufficiently
warmed so that it will support an adequate draft. Even
if this is necessary, the Vigilant will operate effectively.
Be sure to open the damper and run the stove for a few
minutes before opening either the griddle or the front
doors. This will direct extra heat to the flue to increase
the draft, and will clear exhaust gases from the baffle
system. Do not leave doors and griddle open simultaneously to avoid having gases escape.

ST698

Fig. 23 A stove thermometer can provide helpful information
about how the stove is performing.

200089817

Vermont Castings Vigilant®
Reloading the Stove

Remove Ash Regularly

Put on a small layer of fresh coal and allow it to catch
before clearing the grates of ash. Once the new coal is
ignited, shake the grates with full, steady strokes of the
shaker handle. Stop shaking when red coals cover the
ashpan or when you feel resistance. Using the slicer,
clear ash from between the bars of the front grill. Also,
clear ash from along the sides and the back of the gratearea. Leave a bed of hot coals on the grates to ignite
new fuel.

To avoid blocking incoming air, empty the ash pan before the ash reaches the top of the pan.
Empty the ash pan before shaking the grates so you do
not have to handle an ashpan that is full of hot embers.
Use care when handling and disposing of ash, particularly if there are hot embers.

If the fire has burned very low before reloading, add justa small amount of fuel at a time and leave the damper
open while the fire is regaining strength. Once the fireis burning briskly again, you may add coal layer bylayer until you have re-built a full bed.

Check that there is no accumulation of ash in the bottom of the stove, and remove any that is found before
replacing the ashpan.

The new fuel must be burning briskly before you reduce
the air supply or close the damper.

Important Warm-weather Considerations
Draft strength depends on the temperature difference
between the outside air and flue gases. When theoutside temperature rises, this temperature difference
becomes smaller and draft problems can result.
Avoid draft problems when the outside temperature
is 35°F. or higher, by operating your stove with thedamper open to keep flue temperatures high.
If draft problems occur when the wind is blowing, installa chimney cap designed to stabilize draft under windy
conditions.

18

To empty the ash pan, open the ash door and remove
the pan from the stove. Carry the pan to your ash disposal container.

Dispose of Ash Safely
A container for ash disposal must be made of metal andmust have a tight fitting lid. It must be located outdoors
away from all combustible material. Ash taken from an
operating stove may continue to burn and to generateheat and gases for many days.
Dispose of ash properly. Coal ash should not be usedin the garden, as it may contain unacceptable levels of
toxic heavy metals.

2000898

Vermont Castings Vigilant®

Maintenance
The fire must be out and the stove no longer hot before
you work on the stove. We suggest you wear gloves
and safety goggles when working on your stove.

Cleaning Cast Iron
An occasional dusting with a dry rag is usually all that isnecessary to keep your Vigilant looking new. From time
to time, you may wish to go over the cast iron surface
with a damp cloth; do this while the stove is cool, andmake sure no water remains on the stove surface.
If your stove’s paint needs retouching, allow the stove
to cool completely. Brush any areas needing attention with a wire brush, and make sure the entire stoveis clean and dry. Remove the griddle and set it aside.
Touch up the stove with Vermont Castings High Temperature Stove Paint. Apply the paint sparingly. Twolight coats are better than one heavy one.

Cleaning Porcelain Enamel
Use a dry rag or soft brush as necessary. Do not use
water or other liquids on your stove. Fingerprints usually can be buffed off porcelain enamel with a dry, softrag. If marks remain, allow the stove to cool completely, then buff with a slightly damp, soft rag. Drycompletely before starting a fire to avoid streaking.
Never use abrasives or harsh chemical cleaners on theporcelain finish.
If you must remove spills or stains from porcelainsurfaces, make sure the fire is out and the stove iscompletely cold before cleaning. Use ONLY a kitchen
appliance cleaner and polish especially formulated forenamel surfaces. Apply cleaner sparingly with a softrag, and buff away ALL traces of the cleaner.

Adjusting The Door Latch
The front doors should be securely closed when thehandle is pointing down. If the doors are loose whenclosed, adjust the latch by loosening the small locking
nut, extending the striker screw one turn, and re-tightening the small locking nut. Keep making adjustments
slowly until the setting is right. The handle should resist
slightly as it is turned to the closed position, and thedoors should pull in slightly.

2000898

Pawl
SmallLocking Nut
Striker Screw
Large
Locking Nut

Set Screw
Handle Stub

ST531

Fig. 24 Turn the door latch striker screw in or out to tighten orloosen the door latch.

ST531
Check the AirDoor
Inlet Pawl
Shutter
11/00
The air inlet shutter must open
and close freely. If it

doesn’t, check to be sure the shutter or shutter pin is
not bent.
Be sure the gaskets are in good condition
The gaskets used in the assembly of your Vigilant Coal
Stove play an important part in ensuring consistent,
reliable performance. Inspection of the gaskets andreplacement when necessary is an important part ofroutine maintenance. Gasketing is used to guaranteethat the incoming air and outgoing combustion gases
flow through the stove along the proper pathways. All
the gaskets in your Vigilant are fiberglass, secured with
Vermont Castings High Temperature Stove Gasket Cement.
Light colored streaks on the inside of the stove near thedoor or griddle openings may indicate air leaks due toworn or damaged gasketing. You may also check forleaks by shining a strong light along gasketed seams
to see if light leaks through. While minor leaks may berepaired by building up the gasketing in just the area ofthe leak, it is usually better to replace the gasketing in
the door or griddle.
Anytime you remove or replace parts is a good time to
examine the exposed gasketing. Replace any gasket
which appears frayed or worn. Pay particular attention
to any point where a continuous gasket meets itself.
Follow this procedure to replace worn gaskets:• Remove the old gasketing.
• Clean the gasket channel or groove with a wirebrush. Remove stubborn deposits of cement with acold chisel if necessary.
• Clean all parts to be gasketed. Place on a levelclean surface.
19Vermont Castings Vigilant®
• Select the appropriate gasket. Your Vermont Cast-•••

ings Authorized Dealer carries a complete line ofgaskets. Cut to the recommended length plus a 1”
- 2” excess.
Place an unbroken 1/8” bead of gasket cement in
the channel or groove.
Starting at one end, press the gasket into the channel. Where ends of the gasket meet, insure a good
joint before trimming any excess. Do not overlap orleave ragged edges.
If possible, place the gasketed part firmly against its
normal mating surface to seat the gasket evenly in
its channel or groove. Remove the gasketed partand clean away any excess gasket cement before
placing the part aside to dry.

Clean-Out Access Covers
Remove the three clean-out access covers to clean
behind the lower fireback, and the left and right sideplates.
Slide the cover in the left side plate toward the back of
the stove and pull it to the inside of the stove. Slide thecover in the lower fireback to the right, and the coverin the right side plate toward the front of the stove andthen pull them into the stove.
Use a shop vac, or an old household vacuum (it will get
dirty) to clean out the areas on the bottom of the stovebehind the side plates, and the lower fireback.
The three covers are identical. Always put the endof the cover with the longer offset into the clean-out
opening first, then slide it so the end with the shorter
offset end catches behind the cast iron. Put the longer
end of the cover into the access opening in the left sideplate and then slide it toward the front of the stove so
the end with the shorter offset will be behind the iron.
The cover in the lower fireback will be inserted into the
opening and pushed to the left, and the cover in theright side plate will be inserted and pushed toward theback of the stove.

ExhaustPort

Front Grille
Firebrick
GratesST699

Fig. 25 Interior parts of the Vigilant II.

• Lift the Ash Fettle straight up and out of the stove.
• To remove or replace the
Low Grates, pull the
ST699

shaker handle away from the stove. The Grates
Vigilant
may now be removed or replaced on the grate supports. To remove or replace
the High Grates, pushinterior
the shaker handle toward the stove. The Grates
8/9/01 djt
may now be removed or replaced on the grate supports. High Grates may be interchanged with eachother, and Low Grates may be exchanged with eachother also. If one grate shows excessive wear, swap
it with another of the same kind.
Low Grates
Grate

The Interior Parts
On occasion you may wish to remove the interior parts
to clean unburned coal from the firebox, or to inspect orreplace worn parts.
• Lift the Front Grilel straight up so that you may direct
the tabs on either side of the top of the grille into
the exhaust ports at the top of the side plates. Slide
the tabs of the grille backward and lift the grille to ahorizontal position.
• Move one end of the grille forward and the other end
backward so the tabs may be disengaged from theexhaust ports. Then lift the grille out through thegriddle opening.

Grate Support

High Grates

Grate
ST700
Vigilant
low grate
8/14/01 djt

Grate Support
ST700/701

Fig. 26 Placing low grates on grate support.

202000898
ST701
Vigilant
High grate

Vermont Castings Vigilant®
Because access to the areas behind the side plates
and lower fireback is possible through the three cleanout access covers, it usually will not be necessary to
remove any other interior parts. Contact your local
Vermont Castings Authorized Dealer for instructions if it
is necessary to remove the remaining interior parts.
Re-install the interior parts in this order:• Low Grates• High Grates• Ash Fettle• Front Grille

Clean the Glass as Needed
The Vigilant glass system is designed so that during
normal stove operation you may enjoy the view of thefire for extended periods without cleaning the glass.
How-ever, the ash residue which accumulates on theglass surface should be removed regularly to prevent
etching. To clean the glass, follow this procedure:• Let the stove and glass cool completely.
• Wash the glass with warm water, and a soft paper
towel or rag.
• Rinse and dry thoroughly.

4. Position the two retainer clips on the door with openings in the retainer lining up with the screw holes in thedoor. A round hole in the retainer will line up with theupper screw hole in the door. A slot in the retainer willline up with the lower screw hole in the door. The section of the retainer which is at an angle with the main
section should point downward toward the glass.
5. Reinstall the retainer screws; do not overtighten.

Replace Thermostat Assembly
Remove the Old Thermostat Assembly
1. Disconnect the ball chain from the air intake shutter.
You may need to grip the chain with pliers.
2. Remove the screw that holds the sheet metal or castiron thermostat cover in place, and take the coveroff. You may need to bend the thermostat lever awayfrom the stove to remove the cover.
3. Unscrew the thermostat lever from the back of thestove. Save the small compression spring for use
with the new lever.

Never use abrasives, ashes or harsh chemicals toclean your Vigilant Coal Stove glass doors.
For stubborn deposits use a ceramic glass cleaner
available from your local Vermont Castings Authorized
Dealer. Do not allow the cleaner to touch any brassornamentation or porcelain finish on the stove.

How to Replace Damaged Glass
The ceramic glass used in your Vigilant is speciallydesigned to withstand high temperatures. Although it isvery durable, handle it carefully. It may chip if dropped
against a hard surface, if struck with a hard object, or if
the doors are carelessly slammed shut.
If it should be necessary to replace the glass, use only
high temperature ceramic glass supplied by Vermont
Castings. Do not use substitutes.
Do not operate your stove if glass panes installed in the
doors are broken.
To remove or replace the glass, follow this procedure:
1. Place the door, interior side up, on a level work surface.
2. Remove the two retainer clips. Carefully remove theold glass.
3. Examine the gasketing. Worn gasketing should be
replaced. Remove the old gasketing. Cut new gasketing to fit around the sides and top of the window opening. Secure the new gasketing in place with a thin beadof gasket cement.

2000898

Bi-Metallic CoilCompression
spring
KT447

Fig. 27 Save compression spring for new thermostat lever.
KT447

Install the New Thermostat
Assembly
compression
spring

3/18/04
djton the threaded shaft of
1. Put the compression
springthe new lever. Start screwing the lever into the backof the stove, being careful to avoid cross-threading.
The lever should turn easily. If it does not, back thelever out and start over. A drop of light machine oilon the threads may help.
2. Keep turning the lever until you feel resistancecaused by the spring being compressed. Turn thelever one more revolution.
3. Replace the thermostat cover.
4. Bend the thermostat lever into position. The thermostat lever may need to be bent slightly toward thestove to be easily accessible. (Fig. 28)

21

Vermont Castings Vigilant®
The Chimney System
For safety, good stove performance, and to protect yourchimney and chimney connector, inspect your chimney
and chimney connector on a regular schedule. Clean
the system if necessary. Failure to keep the chimney
and connector system clean can result in a serious
chimney fire.

KT448

Fig. 28 Hold the bar in place as you bend the new lever into
position.

Adjust the Chain Length
1. Make the initial chain adjustment when the stove iscold. With the lever pointing straight up, connect theball chain to the air intake
shutter so the shutter isKT448
half open. This setting bend
will work
well for most installeverlations.
3/18/04 djt
2. Replace the back heat shield if there was one installed originally.
3. Check these three important points when the stoveis hot:• The chain should be long enough so the air intake shutter can close all the way.

• The chain should be short enough so that even•at high temperatures the air intake shutter can be
opened a little.
The lever should always be accessible over thestove top.

When coal is burned, the products of combustion
combine with moisture to form a soot residue whichaccumulates on the flue lining. When ignited, this sootmakes an extremely hot fire. The chimney connector
and chimney should be inspected at least once every
two weeks during the heating season to determine if asoot buildup has occurred. If soot has accumulated, itshould be removed to reduce the risk of a chimney fire.
Fly ash, carried from the fuel bed by draft in the chimney, should also be removed from the chimney andchimney connector. While these particles are non-combustible, they may accumulate enough to reduce thesize of the flue, and restrict draft. This will affect stove
performance, and is a potentially hazardous situation.
(See Safety Tips). Reduce the risk of restricting draftby keeping the system clean. In addition, fly ash contains an acid which, when combined with moisture, cancause rapid deterioration of metal or tile chimney walls.
To inspect the chimney, let the stove cool completely.
Then, using a strong light, sight up through the flue collar into the chimney flue. If it is not possible to inspect
the flue system in this fashion, the stove must be disconnected to provide better viewing access.
Clean the chimney using a specially designed brushthe same size and shape as the flue liner. Flexible
fiberglass rods are used to run the brush up and down
the liner, causing any deposits to fall to the bottom of
the chimney where they can be removed. The chimney
connector should be cleaned by disconnecting the sections, taking them outside, and removing any deposits
with a stiff wire brush. Reinstall the connector sections
after cleaning, being sure to secure the individual sections with sheetmetal screws.
If you feel any uncertainties about chimney inspection,
contact your local Vermont Castings Authorized Dealer,or engage a professional chimney sweep in your area
to perform the inspection and cleaning of the chimney.

KT449

Fig. 29 On a cold stove, a properly adjusted thermostat
assembly will draw the shutter half open when the lever isstraight up.

KT449
chain adjust
3/18/04 djt
222000898

Vermont Castings Vigilant®
The Maintenance Guidelines given below will help you
develop a schedule that works for you. Once you havedeveloped a maintenance schedule, stick to it.

Daily:•

Ashes should be removed before the ashes reachthe top of the ashpan. Check at least once a day.
A build up of ashes under the grates will not only
restrict the supply of air going to the fire, but may
contribute to overheating the grates, causing them towarp.

Two Weeks:••

Inspect the stove interior air ports and passageways;
look for fly ash or coal that might block either incoming or outgoing gases.
Inspect chimney connector and chimney. Clean if
necessary.

Draft Problems
If the draft in the chimney is interrupted, smoke, whichcontains carbon monoxide and other toxic gases, may
be forced out of the stove and chimney and into living areas. This is a potentially hazardous condition. If
you notice a sulfur-like smell or if smoke backs out of
the stove frequently, let the fire go out. Be sure all air
inlets are clear, the chimney connector and chimney areclean, and your stove is being operated correctly before
starting another fire.
The following suggestions may help solve draft related
problems:•

Two Months:••

Check handles and latches to be sure that they are
working properly. If gasketing becomes compressedover time, adjust the latch.
Brush out fly ash or soot that may have been deposited in the chimney connector, particularly in horizontal runs or in elbows.

Yearly Spring Cleaning:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

•

Check the grates and gasketing for wear; replacegasketing if necessary.
Inspect the stove interior air ports and passageways;
look for fly ash or coal that might block either incoming or outgoing gases.
Remove ashes and place a desiccant in the ashpan
to absorb moisture from the air.
Clean dust off the bottom heat shield so it retains its
heat-reflective value.
Tighten the leg bolts and bottom heat shield assembly.
Paint the stove when necessary.
Thoroughly brush the chimney and connector to
remove all fly ash.
Inspect the chimney and chimney connector for any
signs of deterioration. Have a professional mason
repair the chimney. Replace chimney connector
sections if any appear to be corroded.
Is the door handle adjusted so the doors close tightly? Instructions for adjusting the handle are given in
the Maintenance Section.

2000898••

When your heating needs are light and you are operating your stove to produce a small amount of heat,in Spring or Fall for instance, run your stove with thedamper open to direct heat to the flue and maintain
good draft. Small, hot fires, with the damper open,
work well in Spring and Fall.
Operating your stove with the damper open will
help keep flue temperatures high. When outside
temperatures rise to 50°F., you may begin to noticedraft problems which were not present when outside
temperatures were colder. In this situation it is recommended to refrain from burning coal.
If you notice draft problems when the wind is blowing, install a chimney cap designed to stabilize draft
under windy conditions.

Safety Tips••••

Keep all safety equipment ready for use.
Test the smoke alarm to be sure it is operating properly.
Be sure the fire extinguisher works and is clearly visible. All occupants of the house should know where
it is, and how it operates.
Have heavy stove gloves available near the stove.
Have special safety accessories (e.g., Child Guard
Screen) available for use if small children will be in
the home.

23Vermont Castings Vigilant®
2

1

52

48

3

4

51
47
51
54

9

53

15
10

11

56

13
55

14

5

12
21

6
7
17

20

45

29

8

44
46 16 18
19

22

58

49
23
50

35

26

39

25

41
32
28
40

31

42

27
24

38
15

29

30

62
33
61

30
37

36

34

43
57
59
0898

MHSC reserves the right to make changes in design, materials, specifications, prices and discontinue colors and products at any time, without
notice.

		 Item Description	Part Number
5.
Right End
1304262
6.
Front Grille1305029
7.
Fettle13050470898
8.
AshpanFront
1305033
Item Description	Part Number
Vigilant parts
9.
DamperAssembly
w/WeldedPin
5000992
Griddle Quad
1300809 8/02 djt
10.
DamperRetainer
1305018
Griddle130079711.
Upper
Fireback
1305022Top
1304251
12.
Split
Firebrick
1601103
Mittenrack
1601705

Vigilant Coal II
Model 2310
		
1.
2.
3.
4.

24

2000898

Vermont Castings Vigilant®

Vigilant Coal II

		 Item Description	Part Number

Model 2310 (continued)
		 Item Description	Part Number
13.
14.
15.
		
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
		
23.
24.
		
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.

Triangle Firebrick
Right Inner Side
Tie Rod (1)Tie Rod Set (4)Rear Grate Support
High Grate Bar
Low Grate Bar
Front Grate Support
Left Inner Side
Primary Air Tube
Front
Front with Doors Assembly
Right Door
Left Door
Door Pin (Hinge Pin) 3/16 x 1¹⁄₈ - NJ
Glass Panel
3/16” Fiberglass Gasket and BlackLong Glass Clip Retainer - s/s
Short Glass Clip Retainer - s/s
5/16” Fiberglass Gasket
Latch Pawl Assembly
Ashpan Cover w/ Handle
Shaker Handle
AshpanAshdoor
Front Door Handle Assembly
Ashpan Bracket

2000898

1600906
1305002
1601629		
50074971305011130504013050391305009130500113050151304273
500094513042161304224		
1600546
14011191203556
1601392
1601391
1203588
5004024
1601027
1600903
140092713050455004237
1601039

37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
		
56.
57.
58.
59.
61.
62.
		
		
		
		

Ashdoor Hinge
Ashdrop
Bottom10” Leg
Left End
Shaker Handle Support
Ashdoor Hinge Pin
Ceramic Handle AssemblyDamper Handle Assembly
Lower Fireback
Back
6” Round Flue Collar
Shaker Rod (10¹⁄₂”)
Air Control
5/16” Adhesive-backed Gasket
5/16” Armaseal Gasket
Thermostat Assembly
Thermostat Cover
Thermostat Flap Assembly
Substitute:
Thermostat Pivot Pin
Ashdoor Handle with Shaft
Cleanout Cover
C-ClipSlicer/Poker Assembly
Ashpan Cover Handle
Airplate
Allen Wrench, 1/8”
Allen Wrench, 5/32”
Door Handle Holder

130504613050441305043
1305048130426913050491201835
00043425004265130502513042781305050
1600904
130067112035911203668
5005483
1601487
N/A		
50054101601555
50042441602202
160055350057081301254
1600908
12051161205147
1600600

25

Vermont Castings Vigilant®

26

2000898

Vermont Castings Vigilant®

Limited Three Year Warranty
MHSC warrants that this Vigilant II Coal Stove will befree of defects in material and workmanship for a periodof three years from the date you receive it, except thatthe thermostat assembly, coal grates, handles, glass
door panels, cement, and gasketing shall be warranted
for one year as described below.
MHSC will repair or replace, at its option, any partfound to be defective upon inspection by a Vermont
Castings Authorized Dealer. The customer must pay
for any Authorized Dealer in-home travel fees or service
charges. If upon inspection the damage is found to be
the fault of the manufacturer, repairs will be authorized
at no charge to the customer for parts and/or labor.
Any Vigilant II Coal Stove or part thereof that is repairedor replaced during the limited warranty period will bewarranted for a period not to exceed the remaining
term of the original limited warranty or six (6) months,
whichever is longer.

Limited One Year Warranty
The following parts of the Vigilant II Coal Stove are
warranted to be free of defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from the date you
receive it. These parts are the thermostat assembly,
coal grates, handles, glass door panels, cement, andgasketing. Any of these items found to be defective will
be repaired or replaced at no charge, upon the return ofsaid part to a Vermont Castings’ Authorized Dealer withpostage prepaid.

Exclusions and Limitations
1. This warranty is transferable; however, proof oforiginal purchase is required.
2. MHSC offers no warranty on chipping of enamelsurfaces. Inspect your Vigilant II Coal Stove prior toaccepting it for any damage to the enamel.
3. This warranty does not cover misuse of the Vigilant

2000898

II Coal Stove as described in the Owners’ Manual,
nor does it cover a Vigilant II Coal Stove that has
been modified unless authorized by a Vermont Castings’ representative in writing.
4. This warranty does not cover a stove repaired bysomeone other than a Vermont Castings’ Authorized
Dealer.
5. Damage to the unit while in transit is not coveredby this warranty but is subject to claim against thecommon carrier. Contact the Vermont Castings’
Authorized Dealer from whom you purchased yourVigilant II Coal Stove. (Do not operate the Vigilant II
Coal Stove as this may negate the ability to process
the claim with the carrier.)
6. Claims are not valid where the installation does notconform to local building and fire codes or, in theirabsence, to the recommendations in the Owner’s
Guide.

How To Obtain Service
If a defect is noted within the warranty period, the customer should contact a Vermont Castings’ Authorized
Dealer with the following information:
1. Name, address, and telephone number of the purchaser.
2. Date of purchase.
3. Serial number from the label on the back of thestove.
4. Nature of the defect or damage.
5. Any relevant information or circumstances, ie., installation, mode of operation when defect was noted.
A warranty claim will then start in process. MHSC
reserves the right to withhold final approval of a warranty claim pending a visual inspection of the defect byauthorized representatives.

27

MHSC
149 Cleveland Drive • Paris, Kentucky 40361
www.mhsc.com