Even the newer ones experience box burn through. I destroyed one in 9 years and sold it for parts value, $150. I was the 2nd owner and Weber was happy to sell me $800 in replacement parts to rebuild it. I just bought another one for $1100 and upgraded to the S670 (last year) and now I barely use it because I bought the E6 this year.That grill would have to be in pristine condition to make it worthwhile in my opinion. In addition to what Bruce said, the lids have a liner that rots and could drop metal on your food.
If you are considering a Summit look for a newer model with an infrared rotisserie burner that Weber still supports
Bruce or Jon - have either of you tried making a template for the front panel yet? I know it was mentioned in the past to try and fabricate one.They are great grilling machines, but they have fatal flaws that render them useless due to unavailability of parts. The front panel of the cookbox where the burners enter the cook box tends to corrode and once it starts it progresses quick. Eventually, it will allow excessive heat and even flames back flow out of the cook box creating a dangerous situation. Weber no longer makes the parts to fix it and there is no known aftermarket source.
I have.Bruce or Jon - have either of you tried making a template for the front panel yet? I know it was mentioned in the past to try and fabricate one.
The lower piece was intact.Bill: What about that ceramic coated panel below the new one where the burners come through?