Prime Rib-water pan?

[Scott Fischer]

Neighbor has a 5 bone Prime rib he wants me to cook on my 14 in wsm. I have the spitfire extender section and wondering if I should use water in the pan or just sand.
Never done a Prime rib roast before and dont want to screw it up. Thanks

 

[Timothy F. Lewis]

5 bone! Nice project!! I would not use the water pan at all, but, that’s just because I use a plant saucer (foil wrapped) I’m sure others will have their own opinions which doubtless have their merits.
A big roast is inherently more forgiving than smaller ones, you will be just fine, take to an internal of 120 wrap, towel and rest in a cooler and your patience will be rewarded!
But, the most important question…What time is dinner and should I bring two bottles of wine?

 

[MichaelLC]

How'd it turn out?

I cooked two three-bone in my 18" WSM for about 4.5 hrs. No water pan, just a drip pan on the lower rack to catch the drippings.

 

[ChuckO]

Sand?