Hey Everyone!
I picked up a damaged Buffalo Forge some time ago for a decent price and set it aside for when I found an Anvil or other piece of metal to use. After finding an anvil recently, I've decided to try to rehab the forge so I can get started.
The forge came with a one piece blower/ash dump that attaches to the bottom. My plan is to cut out what was the fire-pot and replace it with a 1/2" steel welded fire-pot. The blower and gears/lever will be mounted to the underside of a bench and connected with some tubing.
My question mostly relates to the cracks in the cast. Some of it will be cut out, but I'm not sure what the best method to prevent the cracks getting worse. Could it be welded (I'd have to bring it somewhere, I have no welding equipment or experience), Bolted together with a random scrap? I've also thought about trying to pick up a piece of 1/8 or 1/4" steel plate that fits the shape of the full bottom of the forge to sit inside, and cutting the hole for the new fire-pot into that.
I know it would probably be easier to make something new, but I kinda like the look of this pan, so I'd figure I'd give it a shot.
Brian
