I grilled pork chops on mine last night. I placed the charcoal grate where the water pan usually sits and then placed the charcoal ring on top of the grate. This setup give you about 7 or 8 inches of clearance from the top grate - good for a medium hot fire. I usually cook for just three people so the WSM is the perfect grill for us. I only use the kettle when we have friends over and I need more capacity.