I think Doug is correct about the face plate welded to the cast body, but I don't know why that would be cause to not grind it down. Unless the crown is so steep that making it flat would produce a very thin top plate. It looks like the divots in the face are more of a problem. I think (someone correct me if I'm wrong) you can take that to a reputable welding or blacksmith shop and they could fill in those divots with an appropriate metal. Then, if the crown isn't too steep, you could have your buddy resurface it. It looks like the top plate goes down to the step. How big is the crown compared to the depth of the step? Oh, yeah. Build a ribbon burner forge. You won't regret it.