Expert: James Ball - 2/8/2011

Question
I have a 1983 Martin industries prefab fireplace - Model LF36B.  It has a lever on the left side that should open and close the louver for the outside combustion assembly; however, it doesn't seem to be connected.  When the lever/rod is turned downward, I can see the other end of the rod where it is shaped like a hook it is not connected to anything.  When i turn the lever/rod upward, the hooked end presses firmly against what I'm assuming to be the louver.  Is this opening the louver and should the hooked end be connected to something?  I'm assuming it has a duct running outside from the fireplace because there is an outside assembly connected to the exterior wall.  Would they have installed both ends without connecting them with a duct?
Thank you for your time.

Answer
Hello Marc, it is possible that it was never connected, or broke, I would have a local Certified Chimney Sweep www.csia.org, (there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look at what you have, they should be able to help.
Hope this helps
James