From: "linqink" 
Newsgroups: misc.consumers.house
Subject: OK to move stud in load bearing wall?
Date: 19 Dec 2004 18:06:59 -0800
   posting-account=a2bIBA0AAADhzyVMPC_kb8gqNsa9oDGi

I'm looking to install a gas fireplace in an angled wall in my living
room. The problem is that I have a stud in the way behind the wall
(though not part of the wall--those studs are merely 2x2s and seem to
be there for no other reason than to hold up the plaster).

The troublesome stud is part of a group of studs that form a chase
around what used to be a chimney (the chimney is gone.) The stud sits
directly on one of the main support beams for the house and is directly
underneath the ridge, 2.5 stories up.

Simply moving this stud back six inches along the beam would radically
improve the ease with which I can install the fireplace. It would let
me sink the fireplace another four or five inches into the wall and
give me more than adequate clearance for the vent. (Heck, even four
inches would help a lot.)

My question is, how risky would it be to make that move? Can I offset
some of the risk by laminating a couple 2x4s to replace the existing
2x4?

Thanks for any help!