1988 Bar-B-Kettle 18" question

[Brad Olson]

This morning I went and picked up an 18" Bar-B-Kettle and if the lid's original it's a 1988 (code K) model. However, I didn't notice until after I got it home that it doesn't have the 4 tabs for the cookgrate, but instead relies on an interference fit. I'll still be able to use my iron grate as long as I rest it on the factory grate, but does anyone know then the tabs were discontinued? Thanks!

 

[DrewZ]

If memory serves, the "Bar-B-Kettle" (not Bar-B-Q-Kettle) was an economy version that had all-black wheels and had user-installed screw-on vents. I have an 18.5 K code that has the usual four straps for the cooking grate.

K code Google Album

 

[Brad Olson]

Thanks, Drew. I just checked and this "new" B-B-K doesn't have mounts for the coalgrate, either...it just rests on the bowl. It seems like your memory of at least the 18" grill being an economy model is correct.

 

[Brad Olson]

I think I have things figured out. I also have a Smokey Joe Platinum that I haven't used for years, and this afternoon it suddenly hit me that the bowl design (outside of the vents) is the same for it and the B-B-K in question. I tried the SJP cookgrate in the B-B-K and it fits perfectly.

The Weber Kettle Club sheds some light on this discrepancy here (scroll down to the SJP/JJ section):

"Another key differential between the SJP and the JJ is the slight difference in the size of the grilling grate. The SJP grate measures 17 7/8 inches, while the JJ uses Weber’s standard 17 1/2 inch grate that is interchangeable with their 18.5” one touch grills. Unfortunately, a SJP grate will not properly fit a JJ, and vice versa."

At some point in time my B-B-K's original cookgrate must've gotten lost or damaged, and someone replaced it with a smaller standard 18" grate. And that extra 3/8" of diameter makes a HUGE difference!