Trying to save Weber Genesis 310 from 2010

[ChadS-TN]

Hey guys- first time posting. I found a 15 year old Genesis for $50 and couldn't pass up the challenge. The firebox seems to be in good condition, just needs cleaning, but the bottom is totally rusted out. I've already removed the bottom and I was thinking about replacing it with plywood or some kind of decking. However, once I pulled the bottom, I realize that the lip on thside pieces where the bottom sits is rusted pretty bad on one side also. Anyone have any experience with something similar? What did you end up doing to restore it?
I know some might say just bin it, not worth it, but I'll be keeping this one and I'm willing to put the work into getting it looking nice again. What I don't want to do is spend over 600$ buying replacement parts from Weber. So, I am looking for creative ideas to get this thing fixed up.

 

[BPratt]

Hi Chad, the bottom panel is no longer available from Weber from what I understand.

You need to brace the side panels at the bottom where the bottom panel used to be. The bottom panel is structural, holding the frame together.

Whether you do it with wood or metal it’s up to you based what materials you have and what are are comfortable with.

I would suggest moving the tank to the outside which takes away any clearance issues with your new floor.

I did this one with welded in angle iron from a bed frame and some scrap composite decking. The clearance was ok on that one.

I have since gone over to mounting the tank outside on the big genesis cabinet models.

 

[Bruce]

I do think the bottoms are still available. I am not sure. You will probably be looking at about $125 or more however.

 

[DanHoo]

@ChadS-TN The pic shown is a 2011 to 2016 E330 as it includes the sear burner and the side burner. IMO the E330 is a great grill, but yes the inside of the cart can rust away.

You could consider an open cart. here's one done on a side control 300 series https://tvwbb.com/threads/weber-2009-restoration.89572/

 

[DanHoo]

The bottom panel part number for LP with the hole cut out is 82793

The bottom panel for NG may also work since the tank is out boarded and the part number is 82792

I don't' think I'd spend the $150 to get a new bottom.

If you went "custom" you could add a 1 inch square tubing from left-to right. One each front and back. That could support a bottom like trex decking and could be used to mount the magnets to catch the doors.