My Limited Edition Performer

[CharlieO]

I know its been done before but here is my version with a couple of twists.
First off, the reason I did it to begin with is when I purchased my Red LE kettle I also wanted a Performer.
Actually I wanted a LE Red kettle Performer.
On mine I decided not to chop the handle and instead utilized the holes on the lid bail side for the ignition (after enlarging it) and the bolt holes for the top of the lid bail are going to be used for the probe port bolts with an additional hole drilled below for the probes themselves.

The finish on my kettle did not hold up well to drilling even though I used new bits and took it slow when drilling to reduce the heat.
All of the cracked porcelain is coved up by the hardware except one spot below the hinge and an area I was no where near. I have no idea how it happened but it wasn’t there prior to this project starting.

Anyway, I am super happy with how it came out!

 

[Tim Snyder]

That's a cool project. The handle looks like it belongs there on a Performer and could actually be useful for moving the grill around, plus, tool holders. The hinge is in a great spot. Nice job.

 

[Joe Anshien]

That is fantastic. I just picked up a very similar performer today and I may copy your hinge Idea as I really don't use the bale. I also have the rotisserie so the removable pin in the hinge world work way better. Has anyone else replaced a bale with hinge? This is what I just picked up. I have the small performer with the flip up table, but found it difficult to move around and was tired of black, and wanted the gas igniter.

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[CharlieO]

Thanks Tim! I love the hinge! I had reached out to unknownbbq to see if they could make one attached to the rear bracket but never heard back so this position was my best option.
I have a cut off wheel. I could have easily zipped off the handle but like you said, it helps with moving and has more tool hooks.

Joe,
Nice find! The Performer looks clean!

tomorrow I get to try out the DynaQ…

 

[Tim Snyder]

Attaching the hinge to the rear bracket would be genius. Using the existing bail wire holes for probe ports was a brilliant solution. I'm usually not a fan of these kind of projects because they often just look hacked. But this looks like Weber could have made it.

If it were mine, though, I might put some nice acorn nuts on the exposed hinge threads for a cleaner look.

 

[Tim Snyder]

Joe, Charlie, my "Performer" vinyl logos are at the sign shop being cut. I had some cut in black for the 2nd and 3rd generation Performers, but I don't have one of those to use for photographs. I'd send either or both of you guys a label in exchange for a photo of it on your grill.

 

[C Lewis]

The grill looks fantastic, very nice job. One last detail to suggest though, (in addition to Tim's decal). Pull the Weber badge off and color-fill the kettle portion in red. Really stands out, and would look especially great on your red one.

Charlie

 

[CharlieO]

Thank you both! Happy 4th of July to all!

I love both the acorn nuts and Red logo ideas!
I really kind of rushed through this in 2-3 hours because of the rainy weather here the past two days and because I wanted to use it today.
Other thoughts I had for it but not sure if or when to do it include painting or powder coating the frame black, replacing the front panel and possibly the table top, and bottom shelf in 304 stainless steel, adding a 5lb propane tank, and having a custom vinyl logo made for the table top.

Tim,
Regarding the hinge idea, unfortunately I committed to the current location and there is no turning back for me. Even if I wanted to relocate it the porcelain cracked on all 4 holes and I wouldn’t be able to cover the damage with stainless steel bolts. I was lucky that all cracked porcelain happened to the inside where it is covered by the hinge.
And I doubt I will be doing this project again so it is up to the next guy (hint hint, Joe) or the manufacturer.

Lastly, I sent you a pm with the performer logo but here it is again.
If you need a better picture just let me know. I could also email it to you if that helps?

 

[PaulH PNW]

Fantastic build! I’ve been wondering about how to make a hinge work on a performer. I absolutely hate the side lid bale on them.

 

[CharlieO]

Thanks Paul!
If you go with the hinge kit you will love it!
One bit of advice is only drill one hole at a time in case the bit walks on you.
Drill and mount the bolts on the lid first then line up the bracket for the bowl. Again, one bolt at a time.
If you do that everything should line up just fine

 

[CharlieO]

Picked up this performer on Saturday for $40.00 just for the Craycort grates.
I had been wanting either Craycort or Mallory cast iron grates for a while and finally decided on the Mallory grate and pre ordered it. Not expected to ship until August.
Then this came up…

After soaking in vinegar, scrubbing with a wire wheel and 4 coats of grape oil seasoning I can’t wait to sear some steaks on it!

 

[Joe Anshien]

Picked up this performer on Saturday for $40.00 just for the Craycort grates.
I had been wanting either Craycort or Mallory cast iron grates for a while and finally decided on the Mallory grate and pre ordered it. Not expected to ship until August.
Then this came up…

After soaking in vinegar, scrubbing with a wire wheel and 4 coats of grape oil seasoning I can’t wait to sear some steaks on it!

They look awesome! Cast iron can really come back it not too badly damaged but it is a lot of work!

 

[Joe Anshien]

I cleaned up both my performers today. I wound up swapping the new ash sweep and older style ash catcher (easier to put back on). I put my old one up for sale. My new 2016 Performer Deluxe's metal table is rusting. Too bad it only had/ has a 2 year warranty.

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[CharlieO]

Thanks Joe!
Hey, your listing isn’t available anymore. Did it sell already???

 

[Joe Anshien]

Maybe try again. Works for me. Or you can also go to Craigslist. I will post a pic also.

Weber Performer Kettle Charcoal Grill / Smoker with Pop up Table -...

Excellent clean condition. Comes with chimney and tools. Why buy a new one for $300 without the extras.

richmond.craigslist.org

 

[CharlieO]

That time it worked.
Nice Performer! Should sell quickly but definitely an upgrade with the new Copperhead.

 

[Joe Anshien]

This would be cool to do to a Performer table, especially since mine is rusting. Heat resistant up to 425°F, crystal clear and UV stable

 

[CharlieO]

Interesting. I like the look of the final product!