Hondaracer< yes, he has. We have conversed via phone many times, as we are but a few of the owners of these gassers by this company and put them into service at about the same time. Seems one stove has always been kinda finicky for some odd reason. I am no expert, but I just advise on what has worked for me. I used to keep really close tabs on it in the beginning, but as long as I am warm, and shop is warm, not so much. I run into problems when I have my young son tend the fire. He just chucks wood in and shuts door. No observation on his part as to what sort of coal bed/temp., whether or not coals are glowing/ or more like charcoal, etc.. I surmise that he may have the same issue with his dad's stove. My son on occasion, has thrown 2 big rounds in thinking that was a good thing as that wood burn much longer....well he was correct, except for the fact that very little heat is gained(actually lost temp.)( again, my observation, with my wood supply/which is mix of this years cut and 1-2 year seasoned.). So, I have used the small/large/dry/ green mix ever since. Works great for me.