If I were you I would call,Jolley Service and equipment in Cowpens S.C. or Standard Truck and Equipment in Atlanta both should have a used heater.There is no need to cut your bucket up.If you did that to your basket OSHA would probably turn summersalts.If you call Cowpens ask for Rick I'm sure he can tell you all the in's and outs,as well as what you would have to have as well as school you on its installation. Hope this helps.