Frontiersman™ Woodstove
Owners Manual

Covers Models VG450EL, VG450ELG & VG450ELGB(save this manual for future reference)

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLYBEFORE STARTING THE INSTALLATION
OR OPERATING THE STOVE. Failure tofollow instructions may resultin property damage, bodily injury,
or even death.

Do NOT use this stove in a
mobile home, Manufactured Home,
trailer or tent — NO EXCEPTIONS!
This stove meets
U.S. Test Standard:

UL 1482-1996

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Safety Notice: If this stove is not properly installed, a house/building fire may
result. For your safety, contact local building or fire officials about permits,
restrictions, and installation requirements for your area.

Read All Instructions carefully.
1. The installation of this stove must comply
with your local building code rulings. Pleaseobserve the clearances to combustibles (seereference figures 1–3). Do not place furniture or other objects within the clearancearea.
2. Verify that the stove is properly installed
before firing the stove for the first time.
After reading these instructions, if you haveany doubt about your ability to complete
your installation properly, you must obtain the services of a professional licensed
installer familiar with all aspects of safe
and correct installation. DO NOT use
temporary or makeshift compromises
during installation.
3. DO NOT store wood, flammable liquids
or other combustible materials too close to
the unit. Refer to certification label on backof unit and reference figures 1 – 3 in thismanual.
4. Do not install this stove in a mobile

home, manufactured home, trailer or tent
NO EXCEPTIONS! (HUD Federal Standard: 24
CFR Ch.XX).

5. If any parts are missing or defective, please
notify the dealer or manufacturer immediately.
DO NOT OPERATE A STOVE THAT ISMISSING ANY PARTS!.
6. Do not tamper with combustion air control
beyond normal adjustment capacities.
7. Always connect this stove to a chimney andvent to the outside. Never vent to anotherroom or inside a building. DO NOT CONNECT THIS UNIT TO A CHIMNEY FLUESERVING ANOTHER APPLIANCE.
8. Do NOT connect a wood burning stove
to an aluminum Type B gas vent. This is not
safe. Use approved masonry or a UL 103 HT
Listed Residential Type and Building Heating Appliance Chimney. Use a 6” diameter
chimney or larger, that is high enough to givea good draft. (See specifics in installation
instructions).
continued on next page
Vogelzang International Corporation
400 West 17th Street
Holland, Michigan 49423
www.vogelzang.com
Phone: 1-616-396-1911
Fax: 1-616-396-1971

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SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS continued…
9. Be sure that your chimney is safely constructed
and in good repair. Have the chimney inspectedby the fire department or a qualified inspector.
Your insurance company should be able torecommend a qualified inspector.
10. Creosote or soot may build up in the chimney
connector and chimney and cause a house/building fire. Inspect the chimney connector
and chimney twice monthly during the heating
season and clean if necessary. (See Chimney
Maintenance, page 12).
11. In the event of a chimney fire, turn the flue
damper to closed position, leave the building and CALL THE FIRE DEPARTMENTIMMEDIATELY! Have a clearly understoodplan on how to handle a chimney fire bycontacting your local fire authority for information on proper procedures in the event of achimney fire.
12. To prevent injury, do not allow anyone to use
this stove who is unfamiliar with the correct
operation of the stove.
13. Do not operate stove while under the
influence of drugs or alcohol.
14. Ashes should not be allowed to accumulate.
Dispose of ashes in a metal container with atight fitting lid. Keep the closed container on
a noncombustible floor or on the ground, wellaway from all combustible materials. Keep theashes in the closed container until all cinders
have thoroughly cooled. The ashes may beburied in the ground or picked up by a refuse
collector.
15. The special paints used on your stove may
give off some smoke and an odor while
they are curing during the first 12 to 15 fires.
Additional smoke and odor may be emitted
from the light oils used in construction of thefire box. This should disappear after a shortperiod of time and not occur again. Persons
with lung conditions or owners of susceptible
domestic pets (such as birds) should takeprudent precautions. Open windows anddoors as needed to clear smoke and/or odor.
Paint discoloration will occur if the stove isoverfired.
16. This stove has a painted surface whichis durable but it will not stand rough handlingor abuse. When installing your stove, use carein handling. Clean with soap and warm water
when stove is not hot. Do not use any acids
Page 2 / VG450EL Frontiersman™

or scouring soap, as these solvents wear anddull the finish.
17. While stove is in operation, all persons,especially young children should be alerted tothe hazards from high surface temperatures.
Keep away from a hot stove to avoid burns or
clothing ignition.
18. The walls of the firebox may become slightly
distorted after a period of use. A slight distortion will not affect the operation of the stove.
19. If small children will be in the same roomas the stove during operation, provide a
sturdy barrier to keep them at a save distancefrom the stove. Never leave smallchildren unsupervised when they
are in the same room as the stove.
20. Keep stove area clear and free from all
combustible materials, gasoline, and otherflammable vapors and liquids.
21. To prevent burns always wear protective
clothing, leather hearth gloves and eye
protection, while tending the fire.
22. While in operation, keep the feed door closed
and secured at all times except while tending
the fire.
23. Do not overfire the stove. Overfiring will
occur if the feed door is left open during
operation. This can result in very dangerous
operating conditions.
24. DO NOT ELEVATE FIRE! Build fire directlyon the bottom of the firebox. This stove has notbeen tested with the use of grates, andirons, orother means of elevating fire and should not be
used.
25. All power cords and electrical appliances
and/or assemblies must be kept outside of theclearance dimensions shown in this manual for
combustible materials.
26. For further information on using your stovesafely, obtain a copy of the National Fire
Protection Association (NFPA) publication,“Using Coal and Wood Stoves Safely” NFPA
No. HS-10-1978. The address of the NFPA isBatterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
NOTE: A professional, licensed heating and cooling contractor MUST
be consulted if you have questions
regarding the installation of thissolid fuel burning appliance.
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Assembly Instructions
NOTICE: Vogelzang International Corp. grants no warranty, stated or implied, for the installation or maintenance ofyour wood stove and assumes no responsibility of any incidental or consequential damages.

Tools and Materials Required for Installation

		

tools

Safety Glasses & Gloves
Pencil
6 foot Folding Rule or Tape Measure
Tin Snips
Drill: Hand or Electric
1/8” dia. Drill Bit (sheet metal screws)
Screwdrivers (blade and Phillips type)14mm Nut Driver or Ratchet with 14mm Socket

CAUTION: Stove is heavy. Make sure you
have adequate help and use proper
lifting techniques whenever moving
stove.

materials(NOTE: The following items are not included with your stove)
Flooring Protection: 40” x 48” as specified (see page 4)
Chimney Connection: 6” dia. minimum 24 MSG black or 26 MSG
blue steel straight stove pipe or elbow(s) as required.
1/2” Sheet Metal Screws
Chimney: Existing 6” Lined Masonry Chimney or 6” Inside Dia.
listed Type HT chimney.
Furnace Cement (manufacturer recommends Rutland Code 78
or equivalent)

14mm nuts removed in step 4. Tighten nuts
securely.
6. Carefully lift stove to upright position.
WARNING: Metal panel fastened between legs acts as a heat deflector.
This panel must be in place for safe
operation.

1. Uncrate the stove and remove cardboard
packing, styfofoam and protective poly bag.
Remove rear deflector (#21) from the carton. 7. Attach rear deflector to the rear side corners of
the stove using four screws.
(Save cardboard for further assembly.)
2. Remove parts from inside stove. Parts in- 8. On VG450ELGB models (only), attach
clude: one damper collar (#1), four legs (#16),
blower assembly to rear of heat deflector.
hardware pack (#22) and air deflectors (#33)
NOTE: Make sure ceramic gasket is positioned
located inside firebox.
between rear deflector and blower assembly.
Attach two (2) air deflectors (#33) to the top
3. Place flattened carton behind stove and careof the rear heat deflector. When installed, thefully turn stove over onto its back on carton.
angled lip should face towards the front of the
4. Remove the four 14mm nuts holding thestove.
bottom floor shield in place.
5. Without removing the floorshield, place each 9. Attach damper collar to rear top surface ofstove using machine screws.
leg in position and secure using the four (4)Locating Stove
CAUTION: (Fire Hazard) Carpeting and1. The stove must be placed on solid concrete, solother combustible material Must not
id masonry, or when installed on a combustible
cover the floor protector. Thesefloor, on a listed floor protector, such as Hy-C
materials
must remain outside ofor Imperial Model UL 4048BK or equivalent
combustible clearances, see fig. 1– 3.
with 0.8 R-factor. (NOTE: to calculate R-valueof alternative materials see page 16). The base 2. The stove must have its own flue. Do notconnect this unit to a chimneymust extend at least 16” beyond the side withflue serving other appliances.
the access door, 8” to the sides of fuel opening,8” behind the stove, and must extend under 3. After observing the clearances to combusthe stove pipe and 2” beyond each side if it istible materials (figures 1–3), locate your floor
elbowed towards a wall. (See figures 1 & 3 andprotector accordingly (figure 1) and careconsult local building codes and fire protection
fully place the stove in your selected location.
ordinances)
Install connector pipe, elbows, and thimble asContinued on next page
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Locating Stove continued…
required, utilizing either a recently cleaned
CAUTION: Keep furnishings and otherand inspected 6” masonry chimney or a 6”
combustible materials away form thei.d. listed chimney.
stove.
4. Use round 6” dia., minimum 24 MSG (miniNOTE: Before firing woodstove slide
mum standard gauge) black or 26 MSG blue
firebricks
towards the rear so nosteel stove pipe to connect the stove to thegaps
remainbetween bricks.
chimney. Do not use galvanized stove pipe.
Secure pipe sections with three (3) sheet metalscrews in each stove pipe and/or elbow joint toStandard: 24 CFR Ch.xx)
firmly hold the pipe sections together. Do not 7. The clearances provided are minimum
connect this stove to any air distribudimensions determined by the manufacturer’s
tion or duct system.
testing laboratory shown on the front cover.
5. Recheck clearances from the stove,
Installation of this stove must comply with theconnector stove pipe, and corner clearances
latest edition of NFPA 211 for reduced clearusing the illustrations in figures 1–3 andances and/or your local building code rulings.
your local building codes or fire protection
Use whichever minimum dimensions are
ordinances.
LARGEST.
NOTE: a wall faced with drywall, brick or 8. This stove meets U.S. Test Standard:stone must be considered a combustible surUL 1482-1996.
face.
6. Do Not install this stove in a mobile
home, Manufactured Home, Tent ortrailer – NO EXCEPTIONS! (HUD Federal
TOP VIEWCOMBUSTIBLE CONSTRUCTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH NFPA 211
DASHED LINE SHOWS HORIZONTAL CHIMNEY CONNECTOR
AND ADDITIONAL FLOOR PROTECTOR REQUIRED EXTENDING
BENEATH AND 2” BEYOND EACH SIDE.

BACKWALL40"

33"min8"min.
48"
17"

SIDEWALL

28"
min.

FLOOR
PROTECTOR

24"

CORNER CLEARANCES

16"min.
8"min.

28"

Fig. 1 – Top View Minimum Clearance
Dimensions from Combustible Surfaces

28"

Fig. 2 – Top View Minimum Corner
Clearances from Combustible Surfaces

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Locating Stove continued…

Fig. 3a – Front View
Minimum Clearance Dimensions
from Combustible Surfaces

Fig. 3b – Side View
Minimum Clearance Dimensions
from Combustible Surfaces

connector Pipe Installation
decrease the amount of draw and possibly
1. The straight end of the stovepipe fits over thecause smoke spillage. Where possible, use only
stove flue collar. Secure with three (3) sheet
corrugated (nonadjustable) elbows. These
metal screws.
provide a better seal.
2. Horizontal pipe runs must slope upwards
towards the chimney at least 1/4” per foot of 7. The connector pipe must not pass through an
attic or roof space, closet, or any concealed
horizontal run. This allows any condensation
space, or floor, ceiling, wall or combustible
in the pipe to drain back into the firebox.
construction. (See Chimney Connector Sys3. You must have at least 18 inches of clearance
tems & Clearances, page 17). A UL 103 HT
between any horizontal piping and the ceilListed chimney must be used from the firsting.
penetration of ceiling or wall to the chimney
4. The pipe cannot extend into the chimney fluecap. Never use single wall connector pipe as(figure 4).
a chimney - a house fire could result.
5. Secure the pipe/flue collar and all pipe/elbow
sections with three (3) sheet metal screws at
NOTE: Stove pipe is NOT INCLUDED. To
each joint to make the piping rigid.
purchase, Visit your local hardware, home or building center. See
6. It is recommended that no more than two (2)“Locating Stove” page 3 for additional
90° bends be used in the stovepipe installaspecifications.
tion. The use of more than two 90° bends may		

CORRECT

WRONG

WRONG

Fig. 4 – Stovepipe/Flue Connections
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Chimney connections
The stove must be connected to either a masonry or manufactured metal chimney built andtested to the specifications listed on the previous
pages.
Chimneys perform two functions:1). As a means of exhausting smoke and fluegases which are the result of fuel combustion.
2). The chimney provides “draft” which allows
oxygen to be continuously introduced into theappliance, so that proper combustion is possible.
This stove relies on natural draft to operate.
NOTICE: Always provide a source of fresh air
into the room where the stove is located. Failure
to do so may result in air starvation of other fuelburning appliances and the possible developmentof hazardous conditions, fire or death.
Your stove itself does not create draft. Draft isprovided by the chimney. To achieve proper draft
your chimney must meet the three minimum heightrequirements detailed in figures 7–9. A minimum of
0.05 w.c. (measured in water column) is requiredfor proper drafting to prevent back puffing, smoke
spillage, and to maximize performance. (Gauges tomeasure draft are readily available at stove stores
and are economical to rent or purchase.)
Factors such as wind, barometric pressure, trees, terrain andchimney temperature can have an
adverse effect on the draft. The
manufacturer cannot be held responsible for external factors leading to less than optimal drafting.
Should you have a problem with inadequate
draft, you should contact a licensed heating andcooling contractor for assistance in solving the
problem.
IMPORTANT Installation Points
1. Size chimney flue to stove collar. This stoverequires a 6” diameter flue.
2. Never connect this unit to a chimney serving another appliance.
3. The chimney must meet all minimum
height requirements.
4. Never use a chimney to ventilate a cellar
or basement.
5. Contact your local building authority
for approved methods of installation and anynecessary permits and/or inspections.
Page 6 / VG450EL Frontiersman™

Masonry Chimney
Before using an existing masonry chimney,clean the chimney, inspect the flue liner and makeany repairs needed to be sure it is safe to use. Make
repairs before attaching the stove. The connector stove pipe and fittings you will need to connect directly to a masonry chimney are shown infigure 6.
THIMBLE6˝ ROUND
24 ga. BLACK
CONNECTORSTOVEPIPECOLLARCHIMNEY
FLUE
5/8" TILE
CHIMNEY
LINER

8˝ MIN.
LINER
BELOW
ENTRY
HOLE

MASONRY
CHIMNEY

Fig. 6 - Masonry Chimney Connection

If the connector stove pipe must go througha combustible wall before entering the masonrychimney, consult a qualified mason or chimney
dealer. The installation must conform to local building and fire codes and latest edition of NFPA 211.
If there is a cleanout opening in the base of thechimney, close it tightly.

Fig. 7 - Chimney Construction Through Attic Space
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Chimney connections continued …

Fig. 8 - Chimney Construction Through Roof

Fig. 9 - Chimney Connection to Firebox
Through Masonry Wall

Manufactured Chimney
Refer to chimney and chimney
connector maker’s instructions for
installation and use.
Use only 6” diameter listed chimney UL 103
HT. Chimney made to this listing is High Temperature rated to 2100 degrees Fahrenheit. Usechimney from only one manufacturer. Never mix
brands. Carefully follow the chimney manufacturer’s stated requirements and clearances. Use
the chimney manufacturer’s attic guards, roof
supports, flashing and fire stops when passing
through a ceiling. Use a listed thimble when
passing through a combustible wall. Do notuse makeshift compromises during installation.
Never use a single-wall connector pipe
as a chimney!
When using a pre-existing chimney, have it’scondition and installation inspected before using.
Make sure that the chimney meets all of the UL
rating requirements listed above. Be aware that
not all manufactured chimney is of the UL 103
HT type.
NOTE: It is recommended that you contact a licensed heating and cooling contractor (consult yourlocal yellow pages) for chimney installation.
Manufactured chimney with the proper required UL listing is available from most home centers, hardware stores, and HVAC supply stores.
If you have access to the internet, you may
wish to view chimney manufacturers’ information on-line. See, www.duravent.com, www.
selkirkinc.com, or www.mtlfab.com.
Venting to Existing Fireplace
In some instances, people desire to convert anexisting fireplace for stove use. Usually, safe connection to an existing masonry chimney requires
more work than using a prefabricated chimney.
The existing fireplace must be closed and sealed at
the damper with high-temperature caulk, ceramicwool, or furnace cement. Prior to installation, clean
and inspect the existing flue and smoke shelf. Installation should be designed so the system can bedismantled for periodic cleaning and inspection.
Before conversion, make sure the existing chimney
is structurally sound, the chimney incorporates aContinued on next page

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Chimney connections continued …
flue liner and make sure it is in good condition.
(A flue liner consists of clay tile that protects thebrickwork of a chimney. If a chimney does nothave a liner, or it is damaged, have it relined by aprofessional. Do Not use a chimney that isunlined or damaged!) If you have any question regarding the condition of the chimney,consult a qualified licensed contractor, qualified
engineer, competent mason, certified Chimney
Sweep, or a knowledgable inspector. Consult yourinsurance company if you cannot find a qualified
expert.
CAUTION: Not all fireplaces are suitablefor conversion to a wood stove. Check witha qualified expert.
Many prefabricated fireplaces are of the“zero-clearance fireplace” category. These consistof multilayered metal construction. They are designed with enough insulation and/or air coolingon the base, back and sides so they can be safely
installed in direct contact with combustible floors
and walls. Although many prefabricated fireplaces
carry endorsements from nationally recognizedorganizations for use as fireplaces, they have notbeen tested for connection to wood stove heaters.
Connecting a stove to such a device will void the
manufacturer’s warranty.
Steel-lined fireplaces are constructed with
1/4” firebox liner, an air chamber in connection with 8” of masonry. These canbe safely used with wood burning
stoves. They contain all the essential
components of a fireplace, firebox,
damper, throat, smoke shelf, andsmoke chamber. Many look identicalto masonry fireplaces and should bechecked carefully before connecting
a stove to them.
Venting a stove directly into a fireplace does not meet code and should
not be attempted. (This constitutes
connection to another appliance - thefireplace.) Combustion products will
be deposited and build up in the firebox or fireplace. The stove warranty
will be void with such an installation.
Page 8 / VG450EL Frontiersman™

Do not create a hazard in your home by connecting
in this manner.
Fireplace Installation
Directly connecting the stovepipe into the existing masonry chimney (figure 10 “Type A” fireplace
conversion) of the fireplace is the only approved
method of installation. This is a complicated andinvolved process and to insure safety should only
by done by a qualified installer.
1. An entry hole must be cut through the masonry
and tile liner with minimal damage to the liner.
At least 8” of liner must remain below the entry
position. When locating the stove and stovepipe, all minimum clearances must be observed
from combustible surfaces including mantels,
combustible trimwork, ceilings and walls.
Positioning the center of the stove pipe entry
into the chimney 24” below the ceiling should
insure proper clearance for a 6” stovepipe.
2. Install a metal or fire clay (5/8” minimum thickness) thimble. Make sure the thimble is flushwith the inner surface of the chimney liner anddoes not protrude into the flue (see figure 6).
3. Secure the thimble with refractory mortar. The
thimble should be surrounded by 8” of solid
unit masonry brickwork or 24” of stone.
4. Install the stovepipe into the thimble as far as
possible without extending past the flue lining(see figures 4 & 6 on pages 5& 6).
5. A small airspace (about 1/2”) should remain
Continued on next page

FIG. 10 - Fireplace Conversion
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Chimney connections continued …
between the stovepipe and thimble to allow for
expansion of the pipe. Seal this airspace withhigh-temperature caulking or ceramic wool.
6. Secure and seal the damper in the closed position using high-temp caulking, ceramic wool,or furnace cement. Also check to see if thechimney has a cleanout. If it does, make sure
it is closed and sealed as well. A leaky cleanout
will greatly reduce draft efficiency.

If you have any questions regarding venting
your stove, contact the manufacturer or contact
the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
and request a copy of the latest editions of NFPA
Standard 211 and NFPA Standard 908. Their address is:Battery March Park, Quincy, MA 02269.

Operating Instructions
CAUTION: HOUSE FIRE HAZARDSWARNING: Explosion Hazard• Do not store wood on floor protector, underneath stovepipe or anywhere within minimum clearances fromcombustible surfaces specified forthis stove.

• Never use chemicals, gasoline,
gasoline-type lantern fuel, kerosene,
charcoal lighter fluid, or similar
flammable liquids to start or “freshen-up” a fire in the stove.

• Overfiring may cause a house fire.
You are overfiring If a unit or chimney
connector glows Red.

• Keep all flammable liquids,
especially gasoline, out of thevicinity of the heater — whether in use
or in storage.

Operating Safety Precautions
1.		 Never overfire this stove by building excessively hot fires as a house/building fire may result. You are overfiring the stove if unit or stovepipe
begins to glow or turn red.
2.		 Never build extremely large fires
in this type of stove as damage to thestove or smoke leakage may result
3.		 On models with glass door, do notbuild fire too close to glass.
4.		 Unit is HOT while in operation. Keepchildren, clothing, and Furniture away.
Contact may cause skin burns. Do nottouch the stove after firing until it
has cooled.
5.		 Provide air into the room for proper combustion.
6.		 Inspect stovepipe every 60 days.
Replace immediately if stovepipe isrusting or leaking smoke into theroom.

This stove is designed toburn WOOD FUEL ONLY!
Hardwood, 14” to 16” should be split and air
dried (seasoned), for 6 months to obtain maximum
burning efficiency. Wood should be stored in a dry,well ventilated area.
NOTICE: Use solid wood materials only.
Do Not burn garbage or flammablefluids. Do Not Use Coal This stove is notdesigned to accommodate the air flow
(draft) necessary to properly burncoal or coal products. Do not elevatefire or use grates or andirons. Build
fire directly on bottom of firebox.

Lighting
1. Open draft damper fully to provide maximum
draft.
2. Open the feed door and place several wads ofcrushed paper in the firebox.
3. Lay small stacks of kindling on the paper tostart the fire.
4. Light the paper and kindling, close the doorand secure tightly.
Continued on next page

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Operating continued …

Operating TIPS

5. Add fuel after fire is burning briskly. Use care
not to smother the kindling fire when addingwood.
6. Close the door and secure tightly.
7. Adjust the draft damper control. The moreclosed the slower the fire will burn. The more
open, the faster and hotter the fire will burn.
8. Do not overfire the stove.

Preventing Creosote Buildup
1. Burn with draft damper open for several
minutes at numerous intervals throughout the
day during the heating season, being careful
not to over-fire the unit.
2. BURN ONLY SEASONED WOOD. Avoid
burning wet or green wood. Seasoned woodhas been dried for at least one year.
3. A small fire is preferable to a large smoldering
one that can deposit creosote within the heating
system.
4. Establish a routine for the handling of fuel,wood burner and firing technique. Check daily
for creosote build-up until experience shows
how often you need to clean for safe operation. Be aware that the hotter the fire, the lesscreosote is deposited and weekly cleanings
may be necessary in mild weather even thoughmonthly cleanings may be enough in colder
months.

Adding Fuel
Add small amounts of fuel each hour or so
instead of piling large quantities of fuel at one
time. This will insure a more complete combustion
process and less buildup of tars, soot, or creosote
will occur in the chimney.
1. Always open draft damper before opening thefeed door.
2. When adding fuel be careful not to smother thefire. Do not build fires against glass on models
with glass door.
WARNING: In case of chimney fire
3. Close the feed door and secure tightly.
(1) Close air inlet control (2) Get
out of the house (3) Call the fire
4. Adjust the draft damper control.
department.
5. Empty ashes regularly. Do not allow ashes topile up (see Safety Instructions #14, page 2.)
6. Properly dispose of hot ashes (see Safety
Service Hints
Instructions, item #14 on page 2.)
7. Do not overfire the stove.
Chimney Draft
Draft is a function of the chimney, not the
CAUTION: DO NOT OVERFIRE appliance.
stove — do not expect the stove to draw.
Too much wood or burning non-recSmoke spillage into the house or excess buildup ofommended materials such as trash orcondensation or creosote in the chimney areflammable liquids may cause overfirwarnings that the chimney is NOT functioning
ing. You are overfiring if the chimney
properly. Correct the problem before using theconnectors or stove glows red. Closethe door and shut damper immediately
stove. Following are some possible causes forto reduce the air supply to the fire.
improper draft.
This will slow down the fire.
1. The connector stovepipe may be pushed
into the chimney too far, stopping the draft.
2. If the chimney is operating too cool, water
CAUTION: Slow burning fires andwill condense in the chimney and run back into theextended use may cause excessive
stove. Creosote formation will be rapid and may
creosote buildup. Ignition of creoblock the chimney. Operate the stove at a fire level
sote buildup or overfiring may cause
high enough to keep the chimney warm preventing
a chimney fire. Chimney fires burnthis condensation.
e x tre m ely hot and m ay ignite
surrounding materials. In case of a
3. If the fire burns well but sometimes
chimney fire call the fire department
creates excessive smoke or burns slowly, it may
immediately.
be caused by the chimney top being lower thananother part of the house or a nearby tree. The windblowing over a house or tree, falls on top of the
Page 10 / VG450EL Frontiersman™

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Service Hints continued …
chimney like water over a dam, beating down the Glass Replacementsmoke. The top of the chimney should be at least
Caution: Replace glass ONLY with 5mm
three (3) feet above the roof and be at least two
High Temperature ceramic glass of the(2) feet higher than any point of the roof withinproper size. Do not use tempered glassten (10) feet.
or double thickness window glass!
NOTE: A draft reading of 0.05 to 0.06
w.c. (water column) is suggested forproper burning of this stove.

Glass Care
The following usage and safety tips should beobserved:
1. Inspect the glass regularly for cracks andbreaks. If you detect a crack or break, extinguish the fire immediately and contact the
manufacturer for a replacement.
2. Do not slam the door or otherwise impact theglass. When closing doors, make sure that logs
or other objects do not protrude to impact theglass.
3. Do not build fires against (or that might fall
against) the glass.
4. Do not clean the glass with materials that
may scratch (or otherwise damage) the glass.
Scratches on the glass can develop into cracks
or breaks during operation.
5. Never attempt to clean the glass while the unit
is hot. If deposits are not very heavy, normal
glass cleaners are adequate using a soft, nonabrasive cleaning pad. Heavier deposits may
be removed with oven cleaners.
6. Never put substances which can ignite explosively in the unit. Even small explosions in
confined areas can blow out the glass.
Gasket and Glass cleaning products are available at local retail home centers. Manufacturers ofcleaning products for wood stoves include, A.W.
Perkins Co. (www.awperkins.com) or Rutland
Products (www.rutland.com).

VGZ-014 / 20110519.0

Glass Replacement Procedure:
1. Ensure appliance is not in operation and isthoroughly cooled.
2. Remove screw and glass clip. (See parts list
and diagram.)
3. Lift glass out from glass clip.
4. Remove old gasket and clean glass.
5. Replace new gasket starting at the bottomof glass working along edges, being sure tocenter gasket channel on glass.
6. Trim to length and butt ends together.
7. Replace glass into door, being sure not toovertighten screw and clip.
After extensive use, the gasket material
which provides glass and door seal may lose it’sresiliency and will need to be replaced. Inspectglass and door gaskets periodically to ensure proper
seal; if gaskets become frayed or worn, replace
immediately.
Door Gasket Replacement Procedure:
1. Ensure appliance is not in operation and isthoroughly cooled.
2. Remove old door gasket and clean channel.
3. Using an approved, high temperature gasket cement, apply a thin coat in bottom of channel.
4. Starting at hinge side of door, work 5/8-inch
diameter fiberglass gasket material into channel
around door unit, end butt and trim to length toensure no gaps.
5. Close door and allow three to four hours for
cement to set before firing appliance.

VG450EL Frontiersman™ / Page 11

Chimney Maintenance
CREOSOTE – Formation and Removal
When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar
and other organic vapors which combine withexpelled moisture to form creosote. The creosote
vapors condense in the relatively cool chimney
flue of a slow-burning fire. As a result, creosote
residue accumulates on the flue lining. If ignited,
this creosote creates an extremely hot fire which
may ignite surrounding materials resulting in abuilding fire.
The chimney connector and chimney should
be inspected at least twice a month during theheating season to determine if a creosote buildup
has occurred.
If creosote has accumulated, it should be
removed. Failure to remove creosote may resultin ignition and may cause a house/building fire.
Creosote may be removed using a chimney brushor other commonly available materials from yourlocal hardware retailer.
Chimney fires burn very hot. If the unit orchimney connector should glow red, reduce
the fire by closing the inlet air control and
immediately call the fire department.
CAUTION: A chimney fire may cause ignition of wall studs or rafters whichwere assumed to be a safe distancefrom the chimney. If a chimney fire
has occurred, have your chimney inspected by a qualified Expert before
using again.

A fire in the firebox may be smothered bypouring a large quantity of coarse salt, baking
soda, or cool ashes on top of the fire.

Page 12 / VG450EL Frontiersman™

VGZ-014 / 20110519.0

Ordering Parts - VG450EL Frontiersman stove
When ordering missing or replacement parts, always give the Model Number of the stove,
Part Number, and Part Description. Use the illustrations and part lists provided to identify parts.

Part No.

Description	Qty.

1		 Flue Collar..................................................... 1
2		Top Support Rails.......................................... 2
3		 Baffle Hangers............................................... 2
4		 Baffle............................................................. 1
5		Door, Cast Iron.............................................. 1
6		Draft Deflector............................................... 1
7		Door Latch..................................................... 1
8		Door Handle.................................................. 1
9		Door Header.................................................. 1
10		Door Pins....................................................... 2
11		Hearth Plate.................................................. 1
12		Rear Retainer................................................ 2
13		Side Retainer................................................ 1
14		 Fire Bricks..................................................... 1415		 Vented Bricks................................................. 2

VGZ-014 / 20110519.0

Part No.

Description	Qty.

16		 Legs............................................................... 417		 14 mm Nut .................................................... 418		 Bottom Deflector............................................ 1
19		 Firebox Bottom.............................................. 120		 Firebox........................................................... 1
21		Rear Deflector............................................... 1
22		Hardware Pack (not shown).......................... 1
			 **Models VG450ELGB only:
32		Complete Blower Assembly, F-4
32a		 Blower Housing (only)................................... 1
32b		 Blower Motor (not shown).............................. 1
32c		 Blower Power Cord (not shown).................... 1
32d		Cord Strain Relief (not shown)...................... 132e		Ceramic Fiber Gasket (not shown)................ 1
33		Air Deflector................................................... 2

VG450EL Frontiersman™ / Page 13

Ordering Parts - VG450EL Frontiersman stove
When ordering missing or replacement parts, always give the Model Number of the stove, Part
Number, and Part Description. Use the illustrations and part lists provided to identify parts.

Part No.

Description	Qty.

23		Door Frame.................................................... 1
24		High-Temp Glass........................................... 125		 Glass Gasket, 5/8” dia. Fiberglass................. 126		 Glass Retainer............................................... 1
27		Retainer Screws............................................ 328		Nuts............................................................... 229		Air Wash Deflector......................................... 130		 Bolts............................................................... 2
31		Complete Door Assembly (less handle)........ 1

Glass replacement instructions for model VG450ELG
CAUTION : When re m oving bro k en
glass, wear thick gloves and safety
glasses. Keep children away anddiscard broken glass safely.

1. Be sure stove has cooled before beginning.
2. Using a screwdriver, remove three screws (#27)
and glass retainer (#26).
3. Remove two nuts (#28) and air wash deflector(#29).
4. Remove glass (#24). Replace with 8”x10”
high-temperature ceramic glass only.
5. Re-install glass reversing steps 1-3. When replacing broken glass, remove gasket (#25) frombroken glass and replace around new glass.
Page 14 / VG450EL Frontiersman™

	Warning: Do not use substitute materials.
Replace only with original manufacturer
components.
	Warning: Do not slam door or strike glass.
Slamming door or striking glass may cause
glass breakage.
	Warning: Do not use abrasive cleaners on
glass surface. Abrasives may damage theglass and breakage may occur when heated.
CAUTION: Do not build fire directly against
glass.
CAUTION: Do not operate stove withbroken glass.
VGZ-014 / 20110519.0

Wiring Diagram - VG450ELGB FRONTIERSMAN stove
When ordering missing or replacement parts, always give the Model Number of the stove,
Part Number, and Part Description. Use the illustrations and part lists provided to identify parts.

Optional Blower Assembly Wiring Diagram

NOTICE: All power cords
and electrical appliances and/or assemblies
must be kept outside of
the clearance dimensions
shown in this manual for
combustible materials.

VGZ-014 / 20110519.0

VG450EL Frontiersman™ / Page 15

Floor Protector Material Calculations
This stove has been tested for and must be installed on a floor protector with the proper Thermal
Resistance or R-value as stated in the installation instructions on page 3, “Locating Stove” step 1, of
this manual. If the floor protector materials listed in the instructions are not available, materials withan equivalent R-value may be substituted.
Alternate materials may be rated with C-factor (Thermal Conductance) or k-factor (Thermal
Conductivity) ratings which must be converted to R-value to determine if the alternate material meetsthe tested requirements. The following instructions provide the proper information and formulas forconversion to R-value.
To determine if alternate materials are acceptable follow this sequence.
1. Convert material specifications to R-value:a. R-value given — no conversion necessaryb. k-factor is given with a required thickness (T) in inches:
		 R = 1/k x T
c. C-factor is given: R = 1/C
2. Determine the R-value of proposed alternate floor protector:
a. Use formulas in step 1 above to calculate R-value of proposed material(s).
b. For multiple layers, add R-values of each layer to determine overall R-value.
3. If the overall R-value of the floor protector system is equal to or greater than the floor protector
specifications given, the alternate is acceptable.
Definitions:
Thermal conductance(C) =
		

BTU
=
(hr)(ft2)(°F)		

W(m )(°K)

Thermal conductivity (k) =		(Btu)(inch)=(hr)(ft2)(°F)		

W=(m)(°K)		

Thermal resistance (R) =		(ft2)(hr)(°F)=
Btu		

(m2)(°K)W2

Btu(hr)(ft)(°F)

Example:The specs of floor protector material should be 3/4-inch thick material with a k-factor of 0.84.
The proposed alternative material is 4” brick with a C-factor of 1.25 over 1/8-inch mineral board
with a k-factor of 0.29.
Step 1: Convert specs to R-value.
		 R = 1/k x T = 1/0.84 x 0.75 = 0.893 System must have a R-value of 0.893 = Rspecs
Step 2: Calculate R-value of individual components
		 4” Brick with C-factor = 1.25. R = 1/C = 1/1.25 = 0.80 = Rbrick		 1/8-inch (0.125”) mineral board with k-factor = 0.29. R = 1/0.29 x 0.125 = 0.431 = Rmin.brd.
Step 3: Add R-values of components to get total R-value of system
		 Rbrick + Rmin.brd = 0.80 + 0.431 = 1.231 = Rsystem
Step 4: Compare Rsystem to Rspecs
		 Rsystem = 1.231 is larger than Rspecs of 0.893. System R-value exceeds the required		 specifications and therefore is an acceptable alternative.

Page 16 / VG450EL Frontiersman™

VGZ-014 / 20110519.0

Chimney Connector Systems & Clearances
A. Brick Masonry

Minimum 3.5˝/89mm thick brick masonry all framed into combustible wall with a minimum of 12˝/305mm brick separationfrom clay liner to combustibles. The fireclay liner shall run
from outer surface of brick wall to, but not beyond, the innersurface of chimney flue liner and shall be firmly cemented inplace.

B. Insulated Sleeve

Solid-insulated, listed factory-built chimney length of
the same inside diameter as the chimney connector andhaving 1˝/25.4cm or more of insulation with a minimum
9˝/229mm air space between the outer wall of the chimney
length and combustibles.

C. Ventilated Thimble

Sheet steel chimney connector, minimum 24 gauge inthickness, with a ventilated thimble, minimum 24 gauge
in thickness, having two 1˝/25.4mm air channels, separated from combustibles by a minimum of 6˝/152mm of glass
fiber insulation. Opening shall be covered, and thimble
supported with a sheet steel support, minimum 24 gauge inthickness.

D. Chimney Section Pass-throughSolid insulated, listed factory-built chimney length with aninside diameter 2˝/51mm larger than the chimney connector and having 1˝/25.4mm or more of insulation, serving asa pass-through for a single wall sheet steel chimney connector of minimum 24 gauge thickness, with a minimum
2˝/51mm air space between the outer wall of chimney
section and combustibles. Minimum length of chimney
section shall be 12˝/305mm chimney section spaced
1˝/25.4mm away from connector using sheet steel support plates on both ends of chimney section. Opening
shall be covered, and chimney section supported on bothsides with sheet steel support securely fastened to wall
surfaces of minimum 24 gauge thickness. Fasteners
used to secure chimney section shall not penetratechimney flue liner.

VGZ-014 / 20110519.0

VG450EL Frontiersman™ / Page 17

This Vogelzang heating appliance is safe when installed properly and will provide you with years ofservice. However, always exercise good judgement when you are using this stove. You are dealing with
FIRE! Fire is inherently dangerous and must be treated with respect. Stay warm and in good health!
Respectfully yours,

Steve Vogelzang
Proprietor

Do NOT use this stove in a
mobile home, Manufactured Home,
trailer or Tent — NO EXCEPTIONS!

Company Testimony:“For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever
believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life”
John 3:16

MADE IN CHINA
Vogelzang International Corporation
400 West 17th Street
Holland, Michigan 49423
www.vogelzang.com
Phone:1-616-396-1911
Fax: 1-616-396-1971

Page 18 / VG450EL Frontiersman™

VGZ-014 / 20110519.0