Yep my conclusion exactly - it was apparently in use by the previous owner who had had the kiln for a year (or two maybe) in a small teaching studio - a bit alarming - I may rehab it for another use but definitely not going back under the kiln.
(eta - the flaking stuff is rust and paint...)
Taking all this info on board - not in a big hurry as January is a bit of a go slow for electricians and pottery supply shops - both of which I need to ramp up activities.
Mark, Skutt kilns aren't real common here - my impression has been that historically at least they were a good kiln, s