Weber Smokey Mountain (WSM) 22 Mods Complete!

[@chessmith5043]

Looks good! I'm in the middle of insulating my WSM. Created a 20" ID stainless steel sleeve to fit inside the smoke chamber; filling the space with ceramic fiber insulation (rated to withstand 1000 degrees). I used the same insulation in the dome, holding it in place with strips of aluminum roof flashing. obviously all this work required solving a bunch of problems, but I am enjoying the challenge. When I'm through my smoker will use considerably less charcoal, especially on those all night brisket smokes; man...I can smell it now!

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Sounds like quite a process! Let us know how it ends up working out for you!

[@ernestwaxteriii1179]

I very much enjoyed your video. I also own a 22.5 Weber Smokey Mountain. If anyone intends to do any drilling, you should put masking tape on the metal before drilling. It makes a difference. I have considered doing the casters and decided to use rubber isolation pads on the bottom of the legs. I see no need for the cooker to roll around. It needs to be stationary when cooking. When I'm not cooking I will only move it to clean it. The casters are not needed. The garage door handles are not needed for the same reason. I have the Cajun Bandit door. I like the Cajun Bandit shelf. I may get that. I will also consider the hinge for the lid. I decided against the thermometer because the Weber thermometer is fine. I really appreciate what has been done inside. The charcoal basket is very well done, but you did not mention using two grates. My favorite mod is the 1/4" steel plate to replace the water pan. When I first got my Weber and was putting it together, I replaced all the hardware with stainless steel. I will never have to worry about rust or fading metal. I also have a stainless steel rotisserie that is fantastic. Thank You for sharing a great video.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks so much for watching and responding! For me, the casters are required since I have multiple cookers and need to move them around in order to use them. I really like the garage door handles as well because they make it easier to remove the middle section for cleaning or loading charcoal or whatever. I agree, the quarter inch steel plate comes in very handy the way I use that cooker. In fact, sometimes instead of the steel plate I just use a 19 inch aluminum pizza pan these days. Enjoy!

[@jwhome9319]

So Nice! This is my second comment to your mods. You motivated me to make some. Thanks. 1) I couldn't find any fabricator for the round disc for the wheel mounts. Instead, I went to Lowes and bought some 3/4" aluminum angle metal and 3 swivel wheels. Cut angle metal to length between leg struts and mounted wheels on the struts/angle aluminum. VERY sturdy in the same principle as your recommendations. 2) cool lever handles for vents. Again, Lowes. 4" eye bolts with nuts/washers. Works beautifully using your principle of cool handles/levers at less cost. 3) Lid thermometer. The Weber thermometer is very good. Using Thermo Pro meat/bbq thermometers plus the standard weber thermometer is actually better. 4) Door...I just added some heat gasket using the standard door. Not quite the quality as your mod, but it sure seals the door for smoking efficiently at $100 less! 5) Shelf....thats nice. I don't have a substitute other than a side table. Nice Mod. I'm jealous! 6) Grate...I added a bottom weber coal grate for $19 turned 90 degrees to catch small burnt coals. Good Idea. Thanks. 7) extended height coal basket? $150? Not needed. I loaded up the standard coal basket and got 12 hours burn time. After 12 hours, just add more coals IF needed. Rare. PLUS...the extended height of the coal basket limits your water pan/diverter space from the lower grille rack. I think Weber designed it well. Your mod, though cool ,actually limits the design capability 8) Use standard water pan and lower grille/grate. It seems better. 9) Side handles. Very nice to assist rolling. I have not done that. But I am considering it. I only see the use if you need to remove the center section during a cook and need handles for a hot cylinder chamber removal during a cook. e.g. "Hot Squat" Other than that, with a nice set of wheels on a base, its very easy to roll around without additional handles. 10) YOUR MODS ARE VERY NICE. MADE ME THINK OF MY UNIT. I USED SOME OF YOUR MODS. THANK YOU!!! 11) GOOD JOB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Sounds like you have your cooker set up perfectly for your needs! Appreciate the feedback!

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

That really is the beauty of the WSM, it’s so easy and fun to personalize!

[@jamesgomez8111]

Wow, just came across this video when I was looking at mods for my WSM. So funny you made a couple mods I didn't think ppl had done yet. Like the new diffuser plate. I was going to the metal shop this week to ask them for material. And I wanted a larger charcoal basket too. Your buddy does great work👍

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks James! Yes he does great work! Good luck with your mods and let us know how they turn out.

[@WookieLove1]

Good job, great presentation and wow that's a lot of mods! Thanks for taking the time to shoot, edit, and upload. Much appreciated and looking forward to those cook videos.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thank you for watching and for commenting...I appreciate the encouragement!

[@lonniewilliams7240]

enjoy your video on the mods for the WSM 22.5 i just purchased a WSM 22.5& ordered a cajun bandit SS door.did you have any problemsgetting the door to fit snug? some fit perfect but mine doesent..i keep working with it.did you install a felt gasket around the drum part of the door..some have to be tweeked..any sugestions to get it to fit snug?Thanks Lonnie

[@johnscerbo130]

Great video on of the nicest Smokey Mountain Smokers I have ever seen

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks so much for the kind words, and thank you for watching!

[@sfelmey]

The hinge is invaluable! Single best mod for the WSM and the kettle.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

I tend to agree...although a sold base with wheels comes awfully close for me, as I have the need to move mine around frequently. Thanks for watching!

[@mptemplin]

Will the Weber Cover work with the hinge kit? I like keeping my WSM covered when not in use

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

@@mptemplin I don't believe that it will. That's why I purchased the one from Amazon that I did (linked in description). From what I've heard it's also more water resistant than the Weber cover is. Good luck...and keep smokin'!

[@sfelmey]

@@mptemplin Yep! Slips right over top of it!

[@danielploy9143]

Impressive. Harry Soo is surely proud of you.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks! Haven’t heard from Harry yet, but I’ll take your word for it:)!

[@wayneroland8220]

Nice job that Greg does a great job he is a craftsman. It looks great. Take care

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

He is indeed! Thanks for stopping by!

[@purleybaker]

Thanks for the great video. I use a basket and steel plate that Greg made and agree it's a bit too close to the bottom rack. My jaw literally dropped when you showed how the top rack sits on those nuts. I can't believe I have never tried that.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

That rack sits there like it was made for it! Thanks for watching!

[@purleybaker]

I just ordered another top rack. There are kits and videos about how to suspend another rack but I don't need two enough to get the drill out. This is a perfect solution. Thanks again.@@theqshedbackyardbbq

[@geoffkavanagh6130]

Mate, your mods and attention to detail are right on the money. Thank you.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thank you and I appreciate you watching! Now that a little time has gone by now I’ve cooked on it a number of times, while not all of them odds are absolutely necessary, they have all come in handy and do make the cooker easier to use.

[@Paul_Dalangpan]

Truly, this is terrific and inspiring. I do think that attempting to replicate this may cost more than an OC Brazos delivered.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks...the WSM rabbit hole is definitely a thing!

[@scaryfriend1]

Great article glad i caught it. I gotta get out cooking on mine - purchased late fall last year and haven't used yet due to winter - plus keep finding hacks. Like the pan idea may go that route.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks for subscribing, and for your input...I really appreciate both! WSM is such a great, flexible cooker!

[@cwbkeyclub]

Appreciate the reply sent to my email. Very good video. Waiting for my new smoky mountain to arrive! Happy smoking everyone!

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Nice! Please take a moment to subscribe, like and share channel with friends!

[@VBALLERS]

Nice mods! Impressive! Everything you could want on a WSM.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thank you! The more I've used it since, the more I like the WSM.

[@johnwatz4955]

Sir I really like your base with your wheels & how you attached the cooker, very practical & looks great!

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thank you, John! Got the idea from a post I saw on the Virtual Weber Bullet forum. That guy used an even thicker chunk of aluminum than I did! www.virtualweberbullet.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/david-verba-2.jpg

[@willardreasoner1694]

WOW fantastic Mods. I'll have to check out your links...

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks for watching!

[@willardreasoner1694]

Well I purchased some felt for a Kamado gasket... sliced it in half.. it was like really wide... then put a little felt on the top of the center section... and top of the fire box section... and it makes a great seal... maybe wasn't necessary... but I did it anyways. Also around the Alum. fire box door. I did build a triangle base with casters from wood... but I really like your round 1 with 4 instead of 3 casters like I have. I will be changing that. These are great slow cookers. Good Video... & thanks for the links to the cool mods.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks...and thanks for watching!

[@papajoewil10]

Awesome mods! Appreciate you sharing and elaborating on the ideas involved.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

I appreciate you watching!

[@RaleighSmoke]

I like that side table. I agree with you on the hinge being by far the most important mod. I know a lot of people don’t like the water pan, especially w/ water in it because it causes excessive fuel use, I personally think it’s worth using to control temps when using lump charcoal, which is all I use. 🍻

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

The side table is super useful. I'm really impressed with the way the steel controls temps...got the idea from Brother Greg at the Woodshed!

[@christopherhobby8391]

So you do use the water pan? I still do and been usin’ it over 13 years since I been usin’ WSM 18.5” and now I got the 22”.

[@robcom54]

Great tips and great mods all the best to your friend at woodshed bbq

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thank you kindly

[@ratking948]

The 2 mods I was looking for are the 1/4” steel diffuser plate and the double charcoal grates. I had the same idea as you with the steel diffuser plate and I kept searching online to see if people use that. I dont like how my water pan touches the coals when I load my basket and I believe I could get longer cooks using less combustion without having to heat the water all of the time through the cook. However I didn’t want to buy a firedial or a vortex as I thought a steel plate would work fine.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Yep, the steel diffuser plate works great! To be honest, though, the last several cooks, I have just used a 19 inch aluminum pizza pan without the steel diffuser. I always put the pizza plate on top of the diffuser anyway to act as a drip pan, but I have found no downside to using the pizza pan by itself either. It warped slightly the first couple of cooks, but has not gotten any worse. Good to have the option of doing it both ways.

[@ratking948]

@@theqshedbackyardbbq nice thats good to know. Thanks for the response. That would save some $ too. What kind of temps you keep using just the pizza pan?

[@mikebowerstv]

Great video! I sold my WSM and miss it. Might just have to buy another.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thank you! Not sure I could do without one!

[@JPBBQ]

Nice, love the mods especially the foldable shelf. Great job and thanks for sharing.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thank you...love your channel!

[@SilatShooter]

Seriously nice mods! You have me rethinking my Smokey Mountain 22. I always find it produces very good results but uses far more charcoal than my kamado does.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thank you my friend! You're right, the WSM is nowhere near as efficient as a kamado, but it's a great little cooker in it's own right!

[@Feledwards]

Your WSM is so clean

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

That was back when I first got it. Not clean anymore!

[@gme32]

I was gonna say the same thing 😂. Now it’s likely not being used with the arrival of the Cascade smoker. Nice set up. I had a collection of two 18” and one 22” WSM that was modded and sold both 18” smokers when I added a Cascade Competitor five years ago. I like the wide cook space on your insulated smoker.

[@JoeAnshien]

That is one pimped out clean smoker. Excellent video and information. Thank You.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks Joe...appreciate you watching and taking the time to comment!

[@amandadvorak5150]

Love watching this video. I didn’t see the link for the shelf that you installed. Do you have that by chance?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Hi Amanda...you're right; sorry about that! Here's the link and thanks for watching and commenting! cajunbandit.com/product/cajun-bandit-22-5-wsm-folding-side-table/

[@stevengraff8687]

Given how often folks do all-night cooks, the one modification I have never seen people add to a 22" WSM with a hinge is a light on the front handle. A light attached to the handle and pointing down would be ideal, and if it was on a pivot, gravity would keep the beam pointed at the center chamber as the dome moved up and down.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

I can’t argue with that! Thanks for watching!

[@joefranchi8775]

Great mods! I'm definitely going to give most of these a try. Awesome video 👍

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thank you Joe! Let us know how they turn out!

[@waynemarchington6226]

Vary informational and to the 👉! Thank you Sir.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks much…love my WSM!

[@HousBinPhartiin]

Very nice! Well done!

[@johnmanthey6034]

Did you drill out the rivets on your bottom dampers? I have the cool touch knobs on my dampers. I also put a gasket on the stainless door and on the lid. I have his basket, plate, and the grates Greg makes. Also added the hinge and wheel lock set from Cajun Bandit. I have a 18 1/2 WSM. I put in a River Country temp probe on the lid. The other day I was looking through my junk and found the cash register tape when I bought the grill. 2008, $269. I hav incorporated a lot of those mods like yours. I have a few more to go. Greg told me he had two of those side tables on his. Those, the stacker ring for hanging full pork bellys for bacon and a rotisserie. Ah well, the difference between men and boys. You have great ideas there. Keep going.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Hi John, sorry I missed this comment! I did not drill out the bottom damper rivets, but I may in order to allow a tighter seal on them and/or to clean them from time to time. I did that on the top damper, as I mention in the video, and it works well. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@geoffreywalker7308]

Unreal. Impressed

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thank you very much!

[@chrisgrosse1927]

I love how clean you have your WSM. Lots of people seem to be unwilling to clean their WSM or even say that not cleaning makes for better flavoured food. As a chef, I can’t bring myself to not clean my equipment. Do you have links to products you use to clean the inside/outside of your WSM?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Hey Chris, thanks for watching and commenting! I try to keep the outside clean, but don't really obsess over it. For that, I use Citrus Magic (link follows). For the inside, all I've done so far is scrape the grates with a grill brush, scrape the ash out of the bottom, and spray a coat of vegetable oil on any non coated/chromed parts, such as my "Beast Basket" from Greg at the Woodshed BBQ, charcoal rack, etc. It's a fairly new cooker, so I haven't yet had to clean out the inside with any kind of cleaner. When I do, I'll likely use Super Clean foaming, based on input from those who've used it. Take care. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KVYC1DY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[@chrisgrosse1927]

@@theqshedbackyardbbq Cheers! Thanks for the tips. Keep those videos coming!

[@cubbie316]

Great video, do you have any videos or tips on how you keep your WSM nice and clean?

[@cubbie316]

Found another reply you did to this same question! Nice info thanks new sub

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thank you! It’s not that clean anymore:).

[@akaimon3]

Well done video illustrating WSM mods. Do you have a link to order the charcoal basket? Thanks

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thank you! Unfortunately he’s no longer making the baskets.

[@jazzman9469]

Thank you for the video and all the mods! I just used my WSM 22" this past weekend and I could of used the hinged lid, the wheels and the disc to replace the drip pan. Any chance you can add your supplier for all the discs you had made? Maybe a good shout out to them would encourage more people like me to buy from them. Thank you again. (I did not see a gasket for the lid, are you thinking of that?)

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks for watching! I have thought about putting gaskets on the lid and coal access door but haven’t gotten around to it. Not sure it’s really worth it as my results have been very good so far. I just used a small local fabrication shop to cut the two discs. Would recommend the same strategy as shipping them would be expensive.

[@Mrmatt-pt3xm]

Can you still use the water pan with the Arbor charcoal basket? Great video man,nice lookin smoker

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thank you! If not tried, but I do not believe the water pan would fit if the big basket was filled up. Not a problem for me, because I would much rather use either my quarter inch thick, steel diverter plate or simply a 19 inch aluminum pizza pan as a diverter instead of the water pan.

[@jimmartin9711]

Nice video. I bought a used 22" about 3 years ago and totally cleaned it so it was like new and had performed all of the same mods you did and they still work great. Well worth it plus it is nicer to work on a clean smoker instead of a dirty unit. I used angle channel for a three side stand which I mounted wheels to. Did you buy the round aluminum plate or have it made for you? Also, did you say that you had Slowhand make the diverter plate? Does he still make them? I like that idea.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Hey Jim, I had both the aluminum plate for the base and the quarter inch steel diverter plate made locally. Slowhand made the beast basket for me. Thanks for watching!

[@cwbkeyclub]

Great video. I am having a problem finding a 28" x 1/4" Aluminum disc. Can anyone tell me where I can get one? Thanks!

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

I would recommend finding a local fabrication shop and having them make it for you. That’s what I did. Thanks for watching!

[@ingemarrydberg3045]

Thank you, great mods

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks much…I really appreciate you watching and subscribing!

[@willreasoner4384]

Your link to the cover worked... but which 1 do I pick? I'm looking for a loose kinda fit. I have the hinge but not the handles or shelf. So the one you have........ what cooker is it made for? Looks perfect for me... I may add the shelf and handles later... I like the relaxed fit yours seems to have. Good Video!

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

I got the 30”x43” version and it’s perfect. I think the smaller one would be too tight if you added accessories like the hinge. Mine does not drag the ground and I don’t think it would even without the shelf. Thanks for watching!

[@joannemapp542]

Looks amazing

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thank you…appreciate you watching!

[@BackyardSmoke614]

The mods looks great man. I hope to complete my 18.5 WSM this summer.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks man! Stop back by and let me know how yours turns out.

[@Feledwards]

Where did you find the 28” wide disc for the base? Nice mods. I’ve had my WSM for many years , and that has to be one of the best mods other than lid hinge. It doesn’t move very well.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

I had a local fab shop make it. Agree probably the most useful mod of all! Only other way to move it really is to take it apart, which doesn’t work very well when it is full of meat and lit coals! I had to do exactly that last weekend when it started raining hard and I wanted to move it under my shed. Could not have done it without the base and casters. The base also stiffens up the legs substantially, so is a much better alternative than simply putting a caster in the bottom of each leg separately.

[@johnmanthey6034]

PS: I just looked at your channel for other videos. I noticed you have the same rib hanger I do. I took a piece of rebar and wired it cross wise on the top of the hanger. That way I can hang meat square in the middle of the the grill.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Good idea!

[@timothyrobles8777]

Great video, 28 inch disc great idea. I wonder where I can find that aluminum disc? Harbor freight has the casters. Thanks for your great mods and sharing.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks much. I sourced the disc locally at a fab shop. I saw a couple vendors on eBay that do custom size aluminum and steel discs as well.

[@timothyrobles8777]

@@theqshedbackyardbbq Thank you so much for the feed back......

[@christopherhobby8391]

Is that the Tel Tru 2.5 inch or 4 inch stem? Somehow Tel Tru doesn’t make a 3 inch stem. I still like to use my water pan. Just to used to it and never has failed me.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Mine is the 2.5” stem. It’s worked very well for me. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@rjd8434]

No drilling required for the side shelf? How does it mount to the cooker?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

No. It uses existing holes for cooking rack tabs.

[@cwbkeyclub]

Quick follow up question. What size hole did you drill in the legs to attach them to the aluminum disc? Thanks in advance.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Can’t remember. Just whatever size you need to clear the bolts you’re using to attach them to the disc.

[@JeremyMaestas-u5i]

Will the stock Weber sleeve protector still fit over the smoker even after the mods or did you have to purchase a new one?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

If by “sleeve protector“ you mean grill cover, I did have to purchase one from Amazon. The link to it should be in the description below the video. Thanks for watching!

[@WesternSlope4Wheeler]

The folding table appears to be not level, and it appears the same way on the Cajun Bandit web page. Is that just an optical issue or is it truly not quite level?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

It’s not perfectly level but enough so that trays don’t slide or anything. I think it’s worth doing but not the most important mod for sure.

[@WesternSlope4Wheeler]

@@theqshedbackyardbbq OK. Thank you!

[@the-bu3lb]

What type of wood did u use to make your back yard fence. You did a fantastic job.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks. It’s cedar with a natural cedar stain.

[@Maranatha--]

What is the size of the disc on the bottom that the casters are mounted and where could one get it?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

It's a 28" diameter, 1/4" thick aluminum disc. I had it made at a local fab shop. I'm sure you could find one online but I went local. Thanks for watching!

[@DLong-wp8su]

I like the 22" Weber smoker, but too expensive. Is there another 22" smoker available beside the 55gal barrel?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Nothing else that I am aware of that is less expensive. I would probably try to convert a 55 gallon drum if it were me… although I know nothing about doing that :-). Thanks for watching!

[@louieleos1218]

Any tips for adjusting the Cajun bandit 22 door. I’ve tried the bucket method and still having some gap on the top left and right side

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

No, I’ve had no luck myself I that regard!

[@bobwampler3387]

I’m not sure if this possible, but can the WSM be set up to do high temp searing in addition to low and slow cooking? If so, I see no reason to have any other barbecue in addition.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

It can be, but not real easily. Would just take a little ingenuity. But with a WSM and a $150 Weber Kettle grill, you've got all bases covered!

[@crushingbelial]

Take the barrel off, put the top grate right over the coals and go nuts. Depends upon how high of temp you want, of course

[@nelsonbrooks]

It’s 2 yrs later, how’s your friend Greg?

[@robolive123]

He's doing better, thanks for asking!

[@gregmacdougal2932]

What is the diameter of the Aluminum disc you had fabricated?

[@gregmacdougal2932]

Sorry I see in the comments below...28". Thanks

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Did you end up making the aluminum disc mod for the base?

[@usmc6157]

Good vid…well done! I did all these mods as well some time back, with the exception of the disc base plate for the casters (drilled the bottom center of the feet for 1/2” stems and ran 3” locking casters x 3) and I think I may go the route exactly as you did. Subbed to your channel. Semper Fi and smoke on!

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks for the sub and the comment brother!

[@lindseyjohn4789]

I was looking at T-Roy Cooking channel, he installed a Thermometer with a 5 inch steam. I saw one on Amazon, Tru-Tel BBQ300 with a 4 inch steam, could i use that?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

To me that would be a bit too long, maybe even getting too close to the meat on the top grate depending on what you had on there. I would go with the shorter stem. Thanks!

[@willardreasoner1694]

so where did you get the disc. was it custom cut for you... or is it something I could find...the perfect size?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

I had it made at a local fabrication shop. Any such shop should be able to do it. Mine is 28” diameter, 1/4” thick aluminum.

[@c3c44u]

Where did you get your 20'x1/4 round Aluminum plate?

[@c3c44u]

I just read all the info on the Plate

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Just had it made in a local fabrication shop. Thanks for watching!

[@sillygoose4176]

Impressive

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thank you!

[@PaulyC8879]

Hello, does the cover fit on the WSM with the hinge installed?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Sure, fits just fine. There is also a lock at the top that holds the lid open.

[@DynamicJon]

Hey been a while since you've done these, do you find that side table pretty useful? Debating it, but I worry about its size cutting down how much you can use it for

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Well, to be honest I don’t use it that much. Mostly because I have a prep table nearby. When I use my FireBoard with the WSM it’s a convenient place to put my controller, and it’s actually large enough to hold most trays I use while putting on/taking off meat from the cooker. I would say I end up using on about half of my cooks. I’d much rather have the hinge and base/wheels if forced to choose…the shelf is more a nice to have vs must have IMHO. Hope that helps!

[@xdbaker1]

My smoker has a lid that fits over the bottom instead of inside the bottom. Will the hinge still work?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

What kind of smoker is it?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

I believe the hinge is specific to a WSM.

[@xdbaker1]

@@theqshedbackyardbbq It is a Kinger bullet smoker. Very similar to the WSM but taller

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

I’m not sure but I kind of doubt it would fit any other smoker. I would call the good folks at cajunbandit.com and ask them.

[@xdbaker1]

@@theqshedbackyardbbq Ok. I'll do that. Thank you!

[@tomcooke6670]

I would like to get that aluminum disc also. Could you please provide your contact info for the place where you got it. Thanks

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Hi Tom, it was just a small local fabrication shop and I don’t even think that they would ship. I would recommend finding any local fabrication shop near you and having them do it. It’s a simple thing for any type of outfit like that. If you cannot find one locally, I would check online and order one. I had even started looking on eBay prior to thinking about using a local shop and there are some options on there as well. Good luck with it! Of all the mods I did, I really think that disk with casters mounted to it is the most important for my situation.

[@nicepelt]

Did you get the large or Med cover? Nice mods

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

I got the large size (for a 30" Kettle). Thanks for watching! www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NFTF462/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

[@trevorboys9140]

Nice mods. Have you looked at gasketing your lid / door, or do you find it doesn't make a difference?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks. I have thought about it and still may install a gasket. If I do, I'll probably add it to both the lid and charcoal door.

[@lukeyadon4702]

Gasket makes a huge difference. If you do it. Do BOTH ends of the center ring and the door. I used the lava lock gasket. Worked great and saves you a lot of $ in charcoal costs over time.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

@@lukeyadon4702 Thanks for taking the time to comment. I may do the gasket thing!

[@ronl384]

Does Weber void any and all factory warranties with any modification ?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

I’m not sure. My guess would be that it is dependent upon the modification and the “warranty” issue involved. Obviously they won’t replace a part where the porcelain enamel finish is cracked if you have drilled through it there. Otherwise, I could not tell you.

[@ronl384]

@@theqshedbackyardbbq Thank You!

[@lindseyjohn4789]

How long is the steam on the Tel-True?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Hello. It is a 2.5” stem…thanks for watching!

[@jasonhanson22]

So do you not use a water pan at all?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

No sir I do not. Never had an issue with food drying out, either. Thanks for watching!

[@kentbarnwell4179]

What size aluminum disk is that?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

It’s a 28 inch diameter 1/4 inch thick desk. Thanks for watching.

[@dwormon4591]

Someone make a hinged door .everyone hates the weber door ?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

The Weber door really isn’t bad. Honestly, changing out the door is one of the least important mods in my opinion. Haven’t seen a “hinged” door. Thanks for watching!

[@scotthanten6879]

Hi, I liked your WSM mods, and was hoping you can provide me with contact information for the Beast Basket. I'm very interested in purchasing one. Thank you.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Hi Scott and thanks for watching. Unfortunately Greg is no longer in business making beast baskets.

[@comlbbeau]

Check out Arbor Fabricating, since Greg is no longer in business. Their products are top drawer. www.arborfab.com/grillcookeraccessories

[@llamawizard]

Why not just use the water pan with water?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

With the larger charcoal basket that I use, the water pan extends down too far to allow me to fill it up with enough charcoal for longer cooks. Also, cooking without water doesn’t create any issues with meat drying out, so it’s not necessary in my experience. Thanks for watching.

[@robertdavis5495]

Did you have the 1/4 inch plate made?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Yes I did, from a local fabricator. Thanks for watching!

[@freightdawg6762]

💯💯💯💯💯

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks for watching!

[@brownwhale5518]

Nice mods but it’s barely a WSM. Just buy an offset if the WSM doesn’t cut it.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks for such a well-reasoned comment.

[@niuean3000]

👍🏼

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Appreciate you watching!

[@SoleMusic84]

What is the diameter of the metal disc for the base? Thanks

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

It is a 28" diameter 1/4" thick aluminum disc. Thanks for watching!

[@SoleMusic84]

Thank you. Do you think 1/8” aluminum would work?

[@robolive123]

@@SoleMusic84 I'm sure it would work just fine. But if 1/4" isn't that much more expensive, I'd go that route for stiffness and stability.

[@x1cculusx]

Hopefully the grill/smoker looks more used and is broken in by now. Nice mods.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

I promise you it does, and it is! Thanks for watching!

[@brant4414]

White people oh my. this guys clarks game was off the hook! 8:00. Honestly, thank you for this video it was highly entertaining. the part with the Canada geese killed me!! 1:22 but man you got to mess this thing up a bit, smoking meat is messy geassy business. common big boy time to pop this grills cherry.. I liked the racks system mod but man the coal box is a bit big for what your realistically going to be doing with this thing. If I'm giving you my honest opinion this build is total over kill. the WSM was designed to work a certain way very simple design WSM simple and sweet. yielding really consistent results for a relatively low cost. Weber literally puts 1000s of hour into RnD you could have bought a totally different grill by the time you put all these mods on it. but I could be wrong to each there own.. definitely respect the attention to detail. But personally, I wouldn't waist money like this on a WSM get two Grills get a kettle master touch 22" or buy some meat and cook it.. you just look like a poser with this shining thing. seriously I'm not trying to be a Dick. 13:40 you wanted honest feed. that being said keep it up you eared my like and subscription.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks...I think:). I actually do cook on this and my other two cookers a lot.

[@DrGaryGreen]

Putting things in my pocket is the best way to lose things.

[@rubengonzalez750]

Put one of those geese in the smoker

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Ha! Good idea, Ruben! I've never eaten goose cooked any way that I cared for...maybe smoked would be the one. Unfortunately, though, if I cut my 12 gauge loose in the neighborhood, I wouldn't be making videos for awhile:).

[@rubengonzalez750]

@@theqshedbackyardbbq hilarious....those were geese I heard in the background right.....rub em down right....smoke them and I bet they would be tasty just got to render down some of that fat.

[@dazalenko4250]

Why stop there bro? Stretch some skins over the sections and you got a drum kit for when you aren't bbq'n. ; )

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks for the idea. Bro.

[@jwhome9319]

Beautiful unit. Now, cook something! It looks inexperienced!!

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks. Oh it’s been cooked on since this video was published, I promise!

[@jiggyjay682]

I'm almost certain none of these make the food taste better.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

I’m almost certain you’re right. Then again I never said that they did. What they do is make the WSM easier for me to use to produce good BBQ. Thanks for watching.

[@jiggyjay682]

@@theqshedbackyardbbq My apologies I know you didn’t say that. I was just being captain obvious, not being a hater.

[@TheresaMitchell-v4r]

Harris Susan Lopez William Allen Barbara

[@davidgannon6562]

Just seems like so much over kill to me. Some of the mods are great others left me pondering why

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks for taking the time to comment Dave! Which of the mods left you pondering why?

[@davidgannon6562]

@@theqshedbackyardbbq For me the wheels IMO it's pretty easy to move I do it in two pieces. And the hinged lid, I guess I understand the logic of it just never had an issue placing the lid on the ground. I love the door and darn sure will buy one as well as a new temp gauge. While I am bending you ear have you ever tried a difuser plate in your WSM 22?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Yes on the diffuser plate, in fact I talk about it at the 9:40 mark in this video. It is a quarter inch thick, 19 inch diameter piece of steel and it works great! Interesting that you mention those two mods as they may be the two I would choose if I could only have two! Most who have added the hinge would agree with me based on feedback I have received. Makes it much easier to open the lid quickly and put it back down vs finding a place to sit it where it won’t get damaged on the bottom, at least in my cook area. As far as the wheels go, my Q Shed holds three different cookers plus a large prep table (I like to keep everything covered and out of the Oregon weather). I often have to shuffle things around in order to film and or cook. Not having wheels on that thing and a stable base would be a bit of a problem for me. Anyway, to each their own I guess! Thanks again for watching and for taking the time to comment!

[@davidgannon6562]

@@theqshedbackyardbbq I guess I should have asked how well the difuser plate is working and what is the intent? Is a temp control devce?

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

It works extremely well as a diffuser to allow indirect cooking over the entire grate, same as the factory water pan would. The difference is that it does not impinge down into my charcoal and wood capacity as the water pan does. Also gives me a nice flat surface on which to place a 19 inch wide pizza pan that serves as a drip pan. Highly recommended.

[@ronaldpatton5906]

There is a difference in mods and accessories. You have lumped them all together. While your platform is cool it is overkill.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks for watching.

[@trevorboys9140]

I dunno, the wheels are really useful and I've got the Cajun Bandit 22.5″ WSM Wheel and Cylinder Lock Kit which is great, but a pain in the .... having to undo the connections to take the midsection off. I think the fourth wheel on the platform gives more stability too.

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

@@trevorboys9140 I almost went with the CB kit but had heard about it being a pain to use the locks. I also wanted 4 wheels and the base to tie the individual legs together for stiffness. Honestly, it'd be a tough call for me to choose between this wheel/base setup and the hinge, if I could only have one...luckily I'm not facing that limitation:).

[@jimmartin9711]

@@theqshedbackyardbbq I bought the CB kit for the wheels on the legs. I had to take them off because the legs do not support any twisting as you move the unit around and I had to keep tightening the screws on the legs. Once I made a stand with wheels, problem solved and it is much sturdier. Probably the only CB item I did not care for.

[@robolive123]

@@jimmartin9711 I had a feeling that might be the case with the CB setup. Thanks for watching!

[@kfrix08]

😻🥳😍🥰🤩

[@johnscerbo130]

Great video on of the nicest Smokey Mountain Smokers I have ever seen

[@theqshedbackyardbbq]

Thanks so much! I appreciate you watching!