Chris,
The 1st generation are VERY cool in my view. I was looking through old posts, too, and found one from 3 years ago where I was telling Larry how I wished we were closer so I could buy his Summit. I was in Florida then, but having moved to Indiana we made that happen last fall. I think the picture you have is probably from a 3rd generation Summit (actually maybe one I posted) but the idea is still the same. I know very little about sheet metal work. Making a perfect replica in high-grade stainless is obviously the ultimate fix - but also likely to be expensive given all those special openings, bends, etc. I am currently thinking more along the lines of a flat piece of stainless that has the burner openings cut and then some holes for small bolts. Use 2 of these pieces to "sandwich" the porcelain original part using bolts and hopefully buy yourself many years of safe use. I hope to explore this as soon as my stupid extended tax season finally gives out. But, if you have time to look into options yourself, please do! The more input we get the better.
My affection for the 1st generation Summit drops off with the 2nd generation with the exception of the late "Platinum" version that featured all stainless frame and cabinetry. Same firebox issue, though. As to the 3rd, current generation Summit I personally feel they are too heavy, too complicated, and too prone to rust. Not just the firebox but also the cabinetry. Not acceptable to me in a +$2,000 grill. That isn't to say that one in working condition wouldn't be an excellent cooker. Just that you will have to do a lot of maintenance. And, for me, it is just too big and heavy to really enjoy.
