Weber Kettle Club Forums

Grill Talk => Weber Grill Forum (Grills, Accessories) => Topic started by: SixZeroFour on February 23, 2015, 07:10:52 PM

Title: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: SixZeroFour on February 23, 2015, 07:10:52 PM: I'm still in shock that this kettle has FINALLY found its way home! It was purchased 7 months ago and has travelled all the way across the continent from FL to it's new home here in Vancouver. This could not have happened without help from some really amazing people. There is a remarkable story behind this grill and another grail score that is being written up a blog post as we speak!

FULL STORY AVAILABLE NOW! Click Below!
An amazing kettle story of epic proportions: Part 1 of 2: The Acquisition (http://weberkettleclub.com/blog/2015/02/25/an-amazing-kettle-story-of-epic-proportions-part-1-of-2-the-acquisition/)
An amazing kettle story of epic proportions: Part 2 of 2: The Yellow Feather (http://weberkettleclub.com/blog/2015/02/26/an-amazing-kettle-story-of-epic-proportions-part-2-of-2-the-impossible-yellow/)

Until then... please say hello to "Area 51" 8) (You can click for high-res)

(http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms1 (Custom).jpg) (http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms1.jpg)
(http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms2 (Custom).jpg) (http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms2.jpg)
(http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms3 (Custom).jpg) (http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms3.jpg)
(http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms4 (Custom).jpg) (http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms4.jpg)
(http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms5 (Custom).jpg) (http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms5.jpg)
(http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms6 (Custom).jpg) (http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms6.jpg)
(http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms7 (Custom).jpg) (http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms7.jpg)
(http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms8 (Custom).jpg) (http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms8.jpg)
(http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms9 (Custom).jpg) (http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms9.jpg)
(http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms10 (Custom).jpg) (http://www.fraservalleyweddingfestival.com/Weber/FEB15/ms10.jpg)

The original owner said it was cooked on only 2 or 3 times and I'd have to believe him based on the condition.

Spent about an hour giving it a cleanup with soap and water and then hit the triangle with a bit of steel wool. Handles were also swapped out for some old originals but that was about all.

It came with a cover believed to be original as well which I will post up along with the full story.

I can't wait to fire this Bad Boy up!

8)
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: 1buckie on February 23, 2015, 07:20:37 PM: GeeeeeeeeeZZZZZZZ!!!!!

300 'Turd minimum !!!!!
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: Jammato on February 23, 2015, 08:00:13 PM: Fantastic
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: MINIgrillin on February 23, 2015, 08:06:57 PM: Awesome grill! Great pics too btw.
Thanks

How many SJs can you fit on there? Just curious
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: MrHoss on February 24, 2015, 05:45:57 AM: Love the spin marks on the lid. Man is that baby ever in great condition. Enjoy that grill 6, can't wait to see that cooker loaded with food. I'd be thinking about a whole pig cook at some point.
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: GregS on February 24, 2015, 06:35:41 AM: it said "take me to your leader".

so they did.
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: jcnaz on February 24, 2015, 06:41:17 AM: Awesome!
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: LightningBoldtz on February 24, 2015, 07:00:19 AM: Such a beautiful grill. Congrats....
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: phillyc0wb0y on February 24, 2015, 07:34:59 AM: congrats!! You won't be disappointed when you fire that baby up! Can't wait to see it in action!
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: 1buckie on February 24, 2015, 07:43:38 AM: Quote from: phillyc0wb0y on February 24, 2015, 07:34:59 AM
congrats!! You won't be disappointed when you fire that baby up! Can't wait to see it in action!

Pay attention....the zen of Ranch cooks has spoken........ 8)

Good to see you phillyc0wb0y !!!!!!
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: 5280Jeff on February 24, 2015, 08:54:51 AM: SWEET!!!!
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: Golly on February 24, 2015, 10:15:45 AM: love it
its immaculate
hope mine turns up in half as good condish
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: Craig on February 24, 2015, 11:23:44 AM: @SixZeroFour that Ranch is KILLER!! 8)

So Weber continued with thumbscrews on the Mothership style into the 80s... I guess I missed that detail. Congratulations on a fine pickup.
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: WNC on February 24, 2015, 12:43:02 PM: Can't wait to hear the story behind this one, sweet score!
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: Zippymsbs on February 24, 2015, 03:36:05 PM: :) GREAT SCORE
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: argentflame on February 24, 2015, 04:00:08 PM: Sweet score. It looks brand new. Welcome to the RK club. Kudos to all the grillfellas on helping.
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: Uncle JJ on February 25, 2015, 05:10:18 AM: What a specimen! Congrats, 604!
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: JDD on February 25, 2015, 06:51:58 AM: Thay's a big boy! What a beauty!
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: SixZeroFour on February 25, 2015, 12:04:48 PM: Thank you all very much for the kind comments!

I've finally typed out the first part of the complete story which has just been posted to the WKC Homepage. (http://weberkettleclub.com/blog/2015/02/25/an-amazing-kettle-story-of-epic-proportions-part-1-of-2-the-acquisition/)

Believe it or not the second installment is even more insane than the first!! I'm just waiting on some last minute pictures then it will also be posted up in a few days 8)

Take care guys, and hope you enjoy.

Matt

@Plant_City_Mike @Troy @pbe gummi bear
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: pbe gummi bear on February 25, 2015, 12:06:23 PM: That's very nice! Congrats, Matt. Great story too.
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: SixZeroFour on February 25, 2015, 12:11:43 PM: Quote from: pbe gummi bear on February 25, 2015, 12:06:23 PM
That's very nice! Congrats, Matt. Great story too.

Thanks gummi - regarding the mention, you're in the second part of the story ;)
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: Plant_City_Mike on February 25, 2015, 12:42:57 PM: Wow "SixZeroFour"!!
The story reads better than reality!! (It's like watching the highlights of your favorite game! ;) )
And I believe: ANYONE IN THE CLUB WOULD DO THE SAME for any other member! ;D
Most just don't get the opportunity!!!
This grill is a "Grail of a lifetime", and I can't wait to see it loaded and cooking!!
Now......about that yellow!!!! 8) 8)
Michael
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: Jason on February 25, 2015, 01:10:31 PM: Matt, you sure do have a way with words! Great write-up as usual!
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: MacEggs on February 25, 2015, 01:12:57 PM: Wow, what a beauty! Fantastic story, too. Great teamwork!

Okay, halftime is over … Waiting for the second half of the story … ;D ;) ;)
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: SixZeroFour on February 25, 2015, 01:19:07 PM: Quote from: Plant_City_Mike on February 25, 2015, 12:42:57 PM
Now......about that yellow!!!! 8) 8)
Michael

About that Yellow indeed! 8)

Jacksonville, FL, United States 02/25/2015 2:10 P.M. Departure Scan

A pic or two from you is what I need to complete part 2 ;) - The write up is done!
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: harris92 on February 25, 2015, 03:19:12 PM: Nice ranch. I find the lid vent tab interesting. The $4K one from the late 1950's - square tab, the one I have (late 1960's early 70's) - round tab,
back to square tab.
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: Qreps on February 25, 2015, 07:05:55 PM: I love your ranch kettle. Your story was the best part. Congrats!.
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: JayCee on February 25, 2015, 08:42:31 PM: That's awesome. Pristine condition for that age. Well done.
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: SixZeroFour on February 25, 2015, 10:26:10 PM: Quote from: harris92 on February 25, 2015, 03:19:12 PM
Nice ranch. I find the lid vent tab interesting. The $4K one from the late 1950's - square tab, the one I have (late 1960's early 70's) - round tab,
back to square tab.

That is interesting... @Winz is your top tab squared off as well?
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: Spinarri on February 26, 2015, 03:29:45 AM: Impressive. So much grill real estate. Can't wait to read the story.
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: Winz on February 26, 2015, 07:53:31 AM: Quote from: SixZeroFour on February 25, 2015, 10:26:10 PM
Quote from: harris92 on February 25, 2015, 03:19:12 PM
Nice ranch. I find the lid vent tab interesting. The $4K one from the late 1950's - square tab, the one I have (late 1960's early 70's) - round tab,
back to square tab.

That is interesting... @Winz is your top tab squared off as well?

Matt - great to finally see 51 on home ground. Awesome job by @Plant_City_Mike to make this happen. I know you are thrilled. That Ranch is pristine! I should get your care package out on Monday.

Roswell (K code, 1988) has a square tab just like 51.

Winz
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: SixZeroFour on February 26, 2015, 10:10:53 AM: Thanks Winz!

To everybody else - Part 2 of the story has just been posted up on the blog! Check it out!

http://weberkettleclub.com/blog/2015/02/26/an-amazing-kettle-story-of-epic-proportions-part-2-of-2-the-impossible-yellow/ (http://weberkettleclub.com/blog/2015/02/26/an-amazing-kettle-story-of-epic-proportions-part-2-of-2-the-impossible-yellow/)

@Plant_City_Mike
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: Winz on February 26, 2015, 10:16:59 AM: Wow - far and away the most amazing Kettle story I have read! Thanks for sharing.

Winz
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: Plant_City_Mike on February 26, 2015, 12:30:33 PM: I am absolutely blown away! :D The "Yellow Feather" arrived today (and to tell you what a great guy Matt is, he waited for it to arrive at my office and let me open it before telling the rest of the story! So I got to live it and not just read about it!! He also wrote one of the LARGEST and kindest "thank-you" notes you have ever seen in the package too!)

I am the very proud owner of a very special "holy grail"! Thanks to everyone that helped make this possible. You guys all rock!! I will be taking pics and cleaning her up this weekend! Currently she has a strong wonderful smoky smell (Mesquite maybe?) and is filling the office with enough fragrance to make your stomach growl!!

Thanks again!
8) 8) 8)
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: SixZeroFour on February 26, 2015, 12:58:50 PM: Quote from: Plant_City_Mike on February 26, 2015, 12:30:33 PM
He also wrote one of the LARGEST and kindest "thank-you" notes you have ever seen in the package too!)

Haha, yes - I had hoped to type something up but all I had was packing tape and a pencil 8) Thus the kindergarden-like 1" tall letters ;D
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: MrHoss on February 26, 2015, 01:05:18 PM: Yellow Feather....How cool is that? That story is off the chart. Kind of surprised the fella parted with the grill considering where he got it. A special grill to be sure. Good on ya' for making it happen 6.
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: SixZeroFour on February 26, 2015, 01:16:49 PM: Quote from: MrHoss on February 26, 2015, 01:05:18 PM
Yellow Feather....How cool is that? That story is off the chart. Kind of surprised the fella parted with the grill considering where he got it. A special grill to be sure. Good on ya' for making it happen 6.

You know what Hoss, I think he almost felt bad that the grill wasn't being used! His property is literally in the middle of the desert and anyone who knows the Palm Springs area can appreciate the winds they often run into. He liked the idea of the ash bucket on the OTG as it provided a bit more peace of mind while renting the space out to strangers.
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: Troy on February 26, 2015, 03:19:05 PM: Great story!
Glad I could be a part of it :)
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: Qreps on February 26, 2015, 06:57:55 PM: What a great story epic for sure 2 awesome grills !.
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: aguyindallas on February 26, 2015, 07:33:39 PM: Wow wow wow!

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Invasion of the Motherships! 1989 "L" Code Ranch - aka "Area 51"
Post by: Russell C. on February 26, 2015, 10:12:46 PM: Incredible story, parts 1 and 2. A testament to a few Grillfellas commitment to each other and to R-R-R.

But enough of the love fest already. Let's see some first cook pron!