? I also added a lid gasket as this kettle is intended to be a smoker. Man, that gasket really gives the kettle a quality feel, so quiet closing the lid! (Installed hinge after gasket installation, to assure proper fit). I also added an 18mm temp probe grommet. I prefer the smaller grommets, still plenty of room for two or three probes without milling a huge hole for the larger grommets. All the drilled holes got 3 coats of high temp black paint.
Tim turn them around. The screws and lock nuts should go on the inside of the kettle and the heads on the outside. Also get 1/2"vs 5/8" if the length bothers you or just cut them flush.Parts have started to arrive for the anniversary grill. First thing was installing the hinge. Installation was easy, but determining the location was not. I set the grill up unconventionally, I know. But here are my reasons.
~ The bowl handle will be engraved wood, so no hooks, I decided to put the handle out of the way in the back.
~ Hinge on the left, being right handed I want my grill tools in my right hand, open the lid with the left.
~ Hinge opens to the side, rather than the back, less chance of burns I suspect.
~ Vent in the front because I keep the Slow 'N Sear and my elevated rack in the back.
~ Moved the One-Touch to between the wheels, under the lid vent, for easy access to temp controls.
~ If you carry your grill often (like up and down deck steps), I'd put the hinge opposite of the handle.
I put a few coats of aluminum mag wheel wax on all the bright parts and added a few coats of clear paint to the lower triangle, maybe that will give it a few extra years before it gets rusty. The Master-Touch wheels and legs are very nice, actual rubber wheels (?) and the height is an improvement. I don't think Weber offered a Crimson Master-Touch, so that's kinda cool to have.
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It felt weird drilling holes in a brand new kettle. This is the first new kettle I ever bought. Are they all this clean when new
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The Unknown BBQ hinge is nicely made, not great, but nice. That hardware though? What were they thinking? Bolts are too long, and those exposed fingers on the lock washers and exposed threads will just trap gunk, particularly if you put them inside the bowl. I ordered proper lock washers and cap nuts (acorn) as well as shorter screws and some aluminum washers. Weber used aluminum washers against the bowl on my Performer, so I'm going to do the same. I'll post a photo of the hinge with the new hardware when it arrives.
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The SnS deluxe package arrived, but I'm not happy with the EasySpin Grate, as it doesn't sit flat. Has a good 3/8 wobble in certain positions. It's annoying. This is the second time I had a problem with one of their grates, the first had a broken handle that I had to pack up and send back for exchange. I have an email out to them. Made in China, you'd think for the price of that stuff it could be made in the States.
Yes, I ordered 1/2" slotted (Weber uses slotted on the Performer) stainless truss head screws. I'd prefer the screw heads inside the grill as they will be easier to clean and there is a bit of a clearance issue with the EasySpin Grate. I think the hinge will look good with the internal tooth lock washers and the acorn nuts on the outside. I'll post a photo when the new hardware arrives and you guys can be the judge.
I went with button socket cap screws. I hate Slotted and Phillip screw heads. The lock washers are pretty important even with them they still loosen from time to time.
Yeah Jim, you're like 3rd in line to be "that guy".Not to be that guy, but here goes.
For a 26th anniversary, shouldn't this be a 26 kettle?
Seriously, great idea. I'm sure your friends will love it. The custom wheels are a great touch.
That's perfectly fine, I started the thread looking for ideas and suggestions.
Thanks Charlie.
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So you have an extra you don’t mind parting with? I’ll take it if that is the case.
I didn't want to spend $5.00 to ship $6.00 in hardware, so I ordered $18.00 in hardware
. I figured I'd use them at some point or move them along. If you like them you're welcome to a set for what I paid.
Here is what I ordered. Although I'd advise anyone to wait until I install, just to make sure everything works okay.
Yeah I knew what lock washers you're referencing. I think they may make self locking acorn nuts?
Tim, Did you happen to see the width of the screw head? They come in different widths. I ordered the button heads smaller then the original weber screws. They fit the fiber washers better. They should list the specs. Also got smaller washers. The washers I got are 1/4 x 1/2 x 1/16 18-8 stainless. The originals are 1/4 x 5/8 I believe. Those are for the wsm legs so it doesn't apply for your kettle.
Did you see the 18-8 with black oxide finish? Was thinking about getting some and see how they look and hold up.
Yes! I did see that. I'm curious too now that I see the contrast between the kettle and the hardware.