Can't seem to fully ID this grill or figure out if it's worth it

[Dave Glasgal]

So...this guy has popped up locally. Best I can tell, I think it's an old "Performer" series - maybe the first one? But I can't seem to find too much info on it, including some pretty key points like "what the heck does a gas assist do for a charcoal grill" and "is this grill missing a lot of parts / can they be easily replaced". Can anyone shed more light on this? I'm mildly interested in picking it up if it seems like a decent buy, but until I can actually learn more about it, it's hard to tell just what something like this would reasonably be worth. Thanks!

 

[MikeLucky]

Well, it's missing at least the 5lb propane bottle, the regulator knob and hose, and starter.

What the gas assist does is starts your chimney quickly. It is a very good thing to have.

 

[Chris Allingham]

Yes, a first-generation Performer where you lift up the work surface to access the charcoal storage bin and the gas ignition. See this post; in the first photo, you can see the storage bin in the back and the 5 pound propane tank hanging below the frame.

Brand new 2004 green gas assist SS Performer. Not Mine

https://inlandempire.craigslist.org/for/d/mira-loma-weber-ss-performer-green/6977586780.html

tvwbb.com

This post includes a photo showing another view of the tank. This guy bought a new tank to replace the old one.

Way to certify 5Lb propane tank?

I picked up a free 2000 performer with propane assist. I'm really committed to making the propane assist with the 5lb propane tank functional. Replacement regulator is cheap, and the proprietary rubber hose with orifice is in excellent condition. Main question: Will a propane dealer convert to...

tvwbb.com

The gas assist lights the charcoal without the use of lighter fluid or starter cubes. A burner extends into the charcoal bowl, you turn on the propane tank, and press a piezo-electric ignition switch at the top left corner to spark the gas. Weber still offers gas assist in Performer and Summit charcoal grills today.

Yes, appears to be missing the 5 pound propane tank and regulator and igniter. Also can't tell from your photo if the stainless steel work surface is in the open position or missing altogether.

Current Performers use smaller disposable propane tanks. You can buy new 5 pound tanks like the one shown in the second photo. The piezo-electric igniter should be available, but may be sold as a kit including the burner tube: https://www.grillparts.com/weber/weber-performer-grill-parts.asp?product_id=10401

Weber sells the regulator hose with orifice and fastening clip for $113. The regulator is nothing special, it's the orifice at the end of the hose that you're paying through the nose for. And it's much cheaper, if any cheaper, from third-party sellers.

A lot of people really like this first-gen grill, but so much depends on what you've not shown...condition of everything else, the frame, the lid, bowl, the porcelain finish, etc.

Owner's Manual is online: https://weber.mizecx.com/retrieve/s3/knowledge/WEBER_OG/55015/55015.pdf

 

[Dave Glasgal]

Hm. Seems much more involved (and expensive) than I need - already have the Genesis for my gas needs; just debating a kettle for those slow, lazy summer evenings. Think I'll stick with a standard model that takes up less room if I end up going that route. Thanks for the info!