Pimp My Smoker Handle Mod

Hello,

Here are a few pictures and a step by step of my handle mod for my new WSM 18.5.

1. I acquired some handles form the new Weber Gold. Lowe's crushes them if they are returned defective. I got one brought it home.

2. I used a Fein flat trim saw and put it between the handle and the kettle.

3. This sawed off the original brackets at the weld. Each one took about 5-8 minutes or so.

4. I went to my local Ace Hardware and purchased some stainless hex cap screws, lock washers, and nuts.

5. Used a drill press and drilled each side of the handle bracket to match the cap screw. 1/4 - 20.

6. Marked the middle section of my WSM with blue painters tape and measured the center and the distance from the top lip on both sides.

7. Drilled each of the four holes for the cap screws.

8. Used a drop of red Lock-Tite on each bolt prior to putting them together.

9. Looks factory and I like the new tool holders that are built in.

Looks great Michael, nice job!

That does look "factory"!
My Wife worked at Lowe's for a few years, I was surprised when she told me of all the stuff they used to crush. I guess they didn't want any liability in selling returned items.
Curious on what was defective on the OTG that it couldn't be saved?

Tim

Good job on the handles! Bummer to read, again, about the waste of good items getting crushed.

Thanks for all the positive feedback.

Mike

Nice job on the handles!