can't comment on another stove- there sure may be some that fit the bill. I can say that the Windpro can be used inverted w/o changing the hose setup, but simply backing it off a 1/2 turn (and adding a little thread locker) makes it much easier
I'm not sure how often the needle valve needs looked at, figured I would do it as a precautionary measure
I've read many accounts of the Windpro being used in the winter w/o any problems