[Just How Old Is Too Old For A Kiln?]

1 hour ago, neilestrick said:

If it has all the original wiring, maybe not. There's a good chance the wire insulation is pretty crispy and brittle. Give it a good inspection and see if the wires are still soft and pliable. If they're crispy and crunchy when you bend them, I'd replace the wiring. Power cord included.

The power cord seemed to be the only part that was not pliable or soft. I traced everything that I could see that powers unit.  Thanks for tips.

[Just How Old Is Too Old For A Kiln?]

1 hour ago, Bill Kielb said:

That kiln is basically my age and I inspect everything when I wake up just to be sure it all works. Just kidding, I would inspect all the electrical and make sure everything is safe and in order. Hook to a properly sized circuit breaker with properly sized wire should be fine to try.  Are you planning on firing to a specific cone, will this be for firing your work or is this something you would like to be sure functions prior to sale?

That's no lie.  I am starting to do the same before I get going in the morning.  The cord  is the only thing I am replacing so far.  I plan on using it my self.  As far as the cone,  there is a supply house down the street that is going to walk me through some of that.  She said my kiln must be old because it did not have something.  I just have the two holes in front.  Something about holding a melting plate inside.  I needed to make sure it's operational before they spend the time with me.  Thanks for the info.  So bricks stay functional if intact . 

[Just How Old Is Too Old For A Kiln?]

I have a kiln from 1957.  Nothing looks broken at all.  Tag say D.H.C Kiln.  230volt 25 amps.  Is it safe to just fire it up?