replace firebrick that's supporting steel lintel bar

[fitjarald]

Hello, just picked up a new to me airtight wood insert for a song... have to replace existing firebrick with a more compact firebrick lining the firebox, as I'm 1" over minimum width. However, the firebrick appears to be supporting the lintel bar. If I knock this out, will I end up with the whole chimney on my lap...?

 

[begreen]

Don't do it, get an insert - or freestanding stove that fits. And make sure that the clearances to combustibles is honored.

 

[bholler]

You do not have enough masonry there to go any thinner. It is ok now but only just.

 

[fitjarald]

You do not have enough masonry there to go any thinner. It is ok now but only just.

Okay thank you. So to get the width, would I build it further out into the room, provided I can still get the flu to line up properly?

 

[fitjarald]

You do not have enough masonry there to go any thinner. It is ok now but only just.

Also I should note that there is room to the sides to put another row of brick.