Chest Freezer into curing oven

[tboard]

I have a chest freezer that I would like to turn into a curing oven. The insulation on the lid is falling out, so I need to get a new one but would love to turn this into a curing oven for my bigger projects. I've been using on old cooking oven for my smaller parts, but need to upgrade. The dimensions are 65"x27"x36". What all would I need to do this. Can I just use the old (but still good) insulation and line it with some sort of metal? If so, what gauge? How many heating elements would I need and how big of each? I would like to be able to reach 450*-500*. What parts do I need to replace because they cant withstand the heat? Sorry for all the newbie questions but I know you guys have the answers Thanks a million, I'm looking forward to hear your guys' responses!!!
-Tucker

[tboard]

Edit: I said I needed a new lid, I think the old one just needs repacked.

[tboard]

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[Hobweld]

Originally Posted by tboard

I have a chest freezer that I would like to turn into a curing oven. The insulation on the lid is falling out, so I need to get a new one but would love to turn this into a curing oven for my bigger projects. I've been using on old cooking oven for my smaller parts, but need to upgrade. The dimensions are 65"x27"x36". What all would I need to do this. Can I just use the old (but still good) insulation and line it with some sort of metal? If so, what gauge? How many heating elements would I need and how big of each? I would like to be able to reach 450*-500*. What parts do I need to replace because they cant withstand the heat? Sorry for all the newbie questions but I know you guys have the answers Thanks a million, I'm looking forward to hear your guys' responses!!!
-Tucker

What kind of insulation is it? Fiberglass? If so it should work. Have to remove anything that is plastic and the rubber seals on the lid. I used 22 gauge for my fridge conversion. I have two elements in mine, started with one but adding the second change my heat up time from 20 minutes to 5!!!!

I would make it three elements. Have to go with a contactor then. Any other questions just fire away.
Ken

[52fordpickup]

I am doing the exact same project. I took all the plastic and rubber off the door and welded some galvanized sheets to cover the insulation. I removed all the remnants from the "freezing" and tomorrow night I am going to install my elements. I have removed both the bake and broil elements and wiring including switch and thermostat and I am wiring the second element into the switch. As of now I have not spent any money on this project I hope to have it completed and running tomorrow night. I am although purchasing some door seals from McMaster Carr, and a digital temp so I know the exact temp. Other than that the interior is all steel and is insulated so I am making no major modifications. Hope this helps.