Weber Kettle Club Forums

Grill Talk => Weber Grill Forum (Grills, Accessories) => Topic started by: 56MPG on April 07, 2017, 04:42:42 AM

Title: A bigger better basket case
Post by: 56MPG on April 07, 2017, 04:42:42 AM
What's going on here?
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2807/33078775523_d2d4360894_c.jpg)
Ahhh, another one of Marty's harebrained schemes, and twenty minutes to spare.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2841/33892025305_1578fb765b_c.jpg)
Simple enough: four holes, four screws, no cutting.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3727/33078783083_5f920ed015_c.jpg)
18" wide, 5" deep. Makes for about a 1/3 - 2/3 area on a 22.5" kettle.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2910/33507153580_87d840bb13_c.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2884/33735551932_8cea294899_c.jpg)
Holds a full chimney of unlit coals. Room for wood chunks and lit coals if you cheat a little.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2915/33735556112_b502aa5526_c.jpg)

Thanks for  watching!
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: mhiszem on April 07, 2017, 05:00:42 AM
Neat, at first I thought it was adjustable.
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Kneab on April 07, 2017, 05:11:45 AM
That is perfect.
I know what I am making for my 26er when I get home.
Thank you @56MPG 👍
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: 56MPG on April 07, 2017, 05:17:13 AM
Neat, at first I thought it was adjustable.

Couple more holes and it will be... ;)
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: LightningBoldtz on April 07, 2017, 05:19:59 AM
Marty, I like that a lot, it is like a slow and sear lite.

I can see a lot of value doing this for my kettle pizza setup.
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: greenweb on April 07, 2017, 05:28:36 AM
Fantastic! Nice clear pics. I had the same idea to make one but without any screws. Is this about the same size as the Slow and Sear?
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Davescprktl on April 07, 2017, 05:35:49 AM
Great idea gota try this.
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: LightningBoldtz on April 07, 2017, 05:37:53 AM
I could see tricking that out with some expanded steel and doing s lite version of what @MacEggs does.
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: 56MPG on April 07, 2017, 05:57:44 AM
I don't have a S&S, so can't compare. My thought was to keep it as simple as possible. I couldn't come up with a no-screw version in my head, so I went with this. I figured everyone has baskets and could cobble this up in no time. Much as I like to tinker, if Weber made a bigger basket like this, I'd be a customer.
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: greenweb on April 07, 2017, 06:15:59 AM
I don't have a S&S, so can't compare. My thought was to keep it as simple as possible. I couldn't come up with a no-screw version in my head, so I went with this. I figured everyone has baskets and could cobble this up in no time. Much as I like to tinker, if Weber made a bigger basket like this, I'd be a customer.

I agree!  Weber could easily make one like this and circular one to be used with the center GBS grate removed similar to Vortex setup. I don't see them being very costly made from same material. I'd buy them.
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: MikeRocksTheRed on April 07, 2017, 06:34:37 AM
Neat, at first I thought it was adjustable.

Couple more holes and it will be... ;)

Awsome MOD!!!!  If you cut slits instead of drilling holes and used wing nuts, you could easily adjust it to almost any size.  Just loosen the wing nuts, slide in or out to desired size then tighten the nuts again.  If you don't have anything for cutting a slot for the bolts, you could alway drill a bunch of holes then join them together with a file and some manual labor!
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Josh G on April 07, 2017, 06:35:28 AM
Coming soon...

http://weberkettleclub.com/forums/trading-post/slow-n-sear-charcoal-basket/
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on April 07, 2017, 07:27:19 AM
That's fantastic.  I'll be making some of those.  Thanks for the inspiration and idea


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: YardBurner on April 07, 2017, 08:03:16 AM
That looks like it would work great with a KettlePizza.
More capacity and keeps the coals off the bowl.

Add some firebricks along the straight edge
and you've got a great indirect tool.

Off to Lowes to pick up a couple of sets.
Thanks for the inspiration!

-Rob
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Neil_VT00 on April 07, 2017, 09:13:40 AM
Thanks for the tip Marty.  I'll definitely be making a set of these. 

Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Kneab on April 07, 2017, 10:34:19 AM
 I just ran to Weber on my lunch break. Char baskets are on clearance for $5.03 so for a grand total of $10.76 with tax.
 I now own a pair of 26 inch charcoal baskets.
Thanks Marty. 👍
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: 56MPG on April 07, 2017, 10:41:19 AM
I just ran to Weber on my lunch break.

Simple words so few of us will ever utter.  :'(
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Kneab on April 07, 2017, 10:59:36 AM
I just ran to Weber on my lunch break.

Simple words so few of us will ever utter.  :'(

Congratulations on the 500th post Marty.
I probably shouldn't tell you that I drive about 2 blocks from the factory on the way to and from work.
 Sorry 😂
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: LiquidOcelot on April 07, 2017, 11:53:23 AM
I don't have a S&S, so can't compare. My thought was to keep it as simple as possible. I couldn't come up with a no-screw version in my head, so I went with this. I figured everyone has baskets and could cobble this up in no time. Much as I like to tinker, if Weber made a bigger basket like this, I'd be a customer.
coulda used rivets but if you wanna take it back apart would need to drill
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: 56MPG on April 07, 2017, 12:26:39 PM
Congratulations on the 500th post Marty.

Thanks! I was not even watching for that. I started over as I was approaching 3,000 posts a while back. (You can still find me as MartyG.) Took a long nap. Focused on some other things for a year or so. Came back right where I left off, but under a new user name. It was kind of fun being a rookie again. ;)
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: AZ Monsoon on April 07, 2017, 01:19:18 PM
Thanks for the great idea. Most of my cooks are indirect with one basket absolutely stacked to the hilt. Gonna give this a go.
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: mrgoodbar67 on April 07, 2017, 03:52:24 PM
Great idea.


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: greenweb on April 07, 2017, 04:34:55 PM
Thank you @56MPG for motivating me to make mine.  Nothing bolted, screwed, or riveted except one SS hose clamp.

(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/07/IMG_3918.jpg)

Inside.
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/07/IMG_3921.jpg)

Outside.
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/08/IMG_3927.jpg)

So far so good. I will try to make a block off plate for the front straight section.
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/07/IMG_3931.jpg)

(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/07/IMG_3929.jpg)
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: 56MPG on April 08, 2017, 02:14:51 AM
Nice! Looking forward to other's ideas. Nothing like teamwork to get the problem solved. It's like Mod Month Spring Training!  8)
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: racedvl on April 08, 2017, 03:47:35 AM
I just ran to Weber on my lunch break. Char baskets are on clearance for $5.03 so for a grand total of $10.76 with tax.
 I now own a pair of 26 inch charcoal baskets.
Thanks Marty. 👍
So Kneab, I see your in LITH, when you say you ran to Weber, are you saying the Huntley location?

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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Kneab on April 08, 2017, 04:01:06 AM
I just ran to Weber on my lunch break. Char baskets are on clearance for $5.03 so for a grand total of $10.76 with tax.
 I now own a pair of 26 inch charcoal baskets.
Thanks Marty. 👍
So Kneab, I see your in LITH, when you say you ran to Weber, are you saying the Huntley location?

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Nope. The factory in Palatine. I work about 5 miles from it. I don't think you can buy anything in Huntley. I have never been there. I probably should check it out.
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: racedvl on April 08, 2017, 04:03:55 AM
Yeah I kind of figured as much I don't know if Huntley sells anything either. But if Huntley did it would be a whole lot closer for me living in Woodstock.

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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: charred on April 08, 2017, 06:07:00 AM
I just ran to Weber on my lunch break.

Simple words so few of us will ever utter.  :'(

TRULY!
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Davescprktl on April 23, 2017, 02:25:35 PM
Thank you @56MPG for motivating me to make mine.  Nothing bolted, screwed, or riveted except one SS hose clamp.

(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/07/IMG_3918.jpg)

Inside.
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/07/IMG_3921.jpg)

Outside.
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/08/IMG_3927.jpg)

So far so good. I will try to make a block off plate for the front straight section.
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/07/IMG_3931.jpg)

(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/07/IMG_3929.jpg)

Just got a new set of baskets.  Gona try this.  Great idea!
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: greenweb on April 23, 2017, 03:02:19 PM
@ Davescprktl - If you want the same size as mine ( almost exact same size as the slow and sear ), join where I marked in violet color so you do not have to do what I did shown in orange to make it smaller.   

(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/23/IMG_3927_LI.jpg)
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: WMT on April 27, 2017, 10:09:34 PM
This is a great idea. Thanks for posting. I have been eyeballing the slow n sear but being north of the border it is $175 by the time it gets here. And thats for the cheapest sns. Gonna give this a try
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: robert-r on April 27, 2017, 10:36:36 PM
Hey 56MPG (or Marty).... good thinking & thanks for the post. Very cool (or hot).
Title: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on April 28, 2017, 07:31:36 PM
Just bumping this post to make it easier to find. Hopefully I'll get a few minutes to knock a couple of these out.

I want to make 2. 1 for a 22. I think it will be great for rotisserie and general use. And another larger one for the 26.


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: kettlebb on April 28, 2017, 07:36:43 PM
@HoosierKettle there is a feature in the app to subscribe to a thread. Hit the ellipsis in the top right then tap subscribe. Then you can always easily check your subscribed threads for future reference.


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: WMT on April 28, 2017, 08:03:44 PM
 I just got a new mastertouch today and was wondering what to do with the charcoal baskets because they just don't seem to fit the kettle very nice. I really like the idea of keeping the hot coals away from the porcelin, and tghis will do it. Thanks for posting
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: greenweb on April 29, 2017, 05:57:12 AM
Here is my basket in action.

(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/29/IMG_3967.jpg)

(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/29/IMG_3968.jpg)
Title: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on April 29, 2017, 06:39:22 AM
That's awesome @greenweb. Exactly what I have in mind. I like setting coals on one side only for roti and a single stock basket isn't big enough for the amount of coal I like to use. Hopefully this basket mod will help save my kettles as well.

I'm wondering if I'll need 4 baskets for the 26" or will I be able to make a big enough basket out of 2?


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: WMT on April 29, 2017, 04:59:41 PM
Wouldn't be hard to make a separate water holder by bending up a peice of metal and clapping the ends. A similar shape as the water holder on the sns. It could have a lip at the top and just hang on the flat side of the coal basket. Either the inside or the outside.
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on April 30, 2017, 09:58:44 AM
Got mine done. My measurements were a little different. It holds an overfilled weber chimney and room for my drip pan. I might need to sacrifice another basket to help keep coals off the bowl at the bottom gap. I'm mainly concerned about my redhead.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170430/e84af69c16ab3b5efd0c58e29a47698b.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170430/3767fda9e0d88c19fcf2028f6535200a.jpg)



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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on April 30, 2017, 10:01:13 AM
Just simple genius. Thanks 56mpg.


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: robert-r on April 30, 2017, 01:41:43 PM
Super! That could be real useful in a 26er, imho.
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: greenweb on April 30, 2017, 02:34:45 PM
That's awesome @greenweb. Exactly what I have in mind. I like setting coals on one side only for roti and a single stock basket isn't big enough for the amount of coal I like to use. Hopefully this basket mod will help save my kettles as well.

I'm wondering if I'll need 4 baskets for the 26" or will I be able to make a big enough basket out of 2?


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You should be fine with 2. Notice how much bigger it was before I made it smaller.  I left the straight edge side as is , but you could make that side longer for your 26er setup.

You could put lot more charcoal for longer cooks without refueling with this.
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/07/IMG_3925.jpg)

But I wanted about the size of the SNS. So I had to make it smaller.
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/07/IMG_3929.jpg)


I have another idea to make another set in 2 half sections. Normally, put them together and use it like one large basket but when using Kettle Pizza... put it as shown with my other large basket so I have a large C shape baskets.

(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/04/30/InkedIMG_3929_LIgdg.jpg)
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on May 03, 2017, 04:48:24 PM
Mega basket action shot

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170504/b97e826b012150a9366d0d51ce64b192.jpg)


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Mr.CPHo on May 03, 2017, 06:37:19 PM

Mega basket action shot

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170504/b97e826b012150a9366d0d51ce64b192.jpg)


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Yum, what're those?


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on May 03, 2017, 06:41:17 PM


Mega basket action shot

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170504/b97e826b012150a9366d0d51ce64b192.jpg)


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Yum, what're those?


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Beer can burgers stuffed with grilled onions and peppers and a couple slices of jalapeño. They were finished off with cheese.  They are really good. First time making them.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170504/7b1375717a93aff2835df759bd94d161.jpg)


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: kemmons on May 10, 2017, 04:54:12 PM

Super! That could be real useful in a 26er, imho.
Thanks for the inspiration! Just made it today specifically fir the 26.  Have to run a test tomorrow before the comp on Saturday.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170511/2aa3a739cd86bc7b1f449e67642d3348.jpg)


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on May 12, 2017, 01:50:13 AM
Nice kemmons. I have been using on in the 22 frequently.


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: kemmons on May 12, 2017, 02:11:23 AM

Nice kemmons. I have been using on in the 22 frequently.


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Just did a test run yesterday.  Tried to maintain 300-325 but it ran a little hot around 350-375 with the vents barely open for about 5 hrs.  I'm gonna cook tomorrow with less starting coals and hopefully I can maintain a little lower temps. 

So just a reminder for you STL guys, the Clancys pork steak and wing cook off is this Saturday.  If you can make it out it should be a good time, I'm trying to round up as many wing votes as I can, wing tasting states at 2.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170512/8b7f2b7f971773af481b13c8fd39aa3a.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170512/5e6060eb814d079a38e5499a9ffbaff9.jpg)




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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: mhiszem on May 28, 2017, 04:07:04 PM
Does anyone have dimensions to make this for a 26er or did you just cut and fit? Are there any better inexpensive charcoal baskets for a 26'er?


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: kettlebb on May 28, 2017, 05:16:28 PM
I wouldn't know but I thought ABC barbecue was making a large stainless charcoal basket now but I don't see it on their site. Maybe they can send you one to get your feedback???


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: mhiszem on May 28, 2017, 05:27:30 PM
Yeah I thought they did to. I could dream...


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: mike.stavlund on May 29, 2017, 04:11:01 PM
Marty, you are a genius.  This will be a game-changer for my Kettle Pizza setup.  As well as my regular cooks.  THANKS!! 
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on May 29, 2017, 04:14:28 PM

Marty, you are a genius.  This will be a game-changer for my Kettle Pizza setup.  As well as my regular cooks.  THANKS!!

I've been using it frequently.  It's really handy and it is genius.


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: mike.stavlund on June 02, 2017, 06:28:48 PM
Amazon finally delivered my char baskets today, and I feel like a kid at Christmas.  This is completely genius.  I got a really nice hot smoke on some tofu today, and thanks to the fire bricks my grate stayed cool enough that they didn't stick.  This is going to be really fun to use.

Also:  I was Facebooking about this with Marty, aka @56MPG, and he told me he doesn't even have fire bricks!  Which is crazy, because two fire bricks tuck up against this modded basket *perfectly*.  I mean, you could not have designed it any better.  I tell you, this guy is a savant when it comes to mods.  Many thanks, Marty!
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Lemans on June 04, 2017, 03:07:23 PM
(http://i1104.photobucket.com/albums/h339/njb1954/BFB2BECA-5059-4BB3-B79B-B633FF55DFC9_zpso7ulznzq.jpg) (http://s1104.photobucket.com/user/njb1954/media/BFB2BECA-5059-4BB3-B79B-B633FF55DFC9_zpso7ulznzq.jpg.html)
I will make a second for my ranch
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Lemans on June 04, 2017, 03:27:30 PM
(http://i1104.photobucket.com/albums/h339/njb1954/BFB2BECA-5059-4BB3-B79B-B633FF55DFC9_zpso7ulznzq.jpg) (http://s1104.photobucket.com/user/njb1954/media/BFB2BECA-5059-4BB3-B79B-B633FF55DFC9_zpso7ulznzq.jpg.html)
Love it
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: mhiszem on June 04, 2017, 03:35:03 PM
I'm gonna make one for my 26er.


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: kemmons on June 04, 2017, 03:49:25 PM
Definitely an awesome accessory for the 26" I just set them in the grill and marked it when I thought it fit like I wanted.  Leaves a tone of real estate and added some serious burn time for the roti(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170604/c43c463ae7e07462426927638626a792.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170604/c6094ce20fc1b0f0747673646e1a8a7d.jpg)


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: mike.stavlund on June 12, 2017, 04:37:20 PM
I'm bumping this up because I want to keep celebrating this effective, cheap mod.  And also because I wanted to share some field data. 

Now the lid thermometer in my SSP isn't especially accurate, but here's what I've found so far:

1 chimney of KBB = at least an hour right at 400 degrees

1 chimney of Kingsford Comp. = at least an hour right at 450. 

The fire brick fence really gives a true indirect heat, and I've been thinking about some kind of 'catch' or 'keeper', because they are prone to falling down once I've got everything set up and I give the grates a quick scrape.  So far some wire bent into a U shape makes a decent clip, but I'll keep working on something better. 
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on June 12, 2017, 04:46:42 PM

I'm bumping this up because I want to keep celebrating this effective, cheap mod.  And also because I wanted to share some field data. 

Now the lid thermometer in my SSP isn't especially accurate, but here's what I've found so far:

1 chimney of KBB = at least an hour right at 400 degrees

1 chimney of Kingsford Comp. = at least an hour right at 450. 

The fire brick fence really gives a true indirect heat, and I've been thinking about some kind of 'catch' or 'keeper', because they are prone to falling down once I've got everything set up and I give the grates a quick scrape.  So far some wire bent into a U shape makes a decent clip, but I'll keep working on something better.

Yes keep celebrating it's effect. I'm using it right this second and I use it for at least 75% of my cooks. It's truly great. I haven't tried using bricks yet


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: 56MPG on June 12, 2017, 04:51:02 PM
Thanks to @mike.stavlund I'm coining a new term: Crowdmodding! Sometimes the best mods are a team event. What started as a quick fix might just become the next big thing. Your ideas and experiments are welcome. Keep 'em coming!
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: 56MPG on June 22, 2017, 08:16:37 AM
While you're here, take a look at another basket case I came up with:

(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4279/34657879563_d7b53bee3a_c.jpg)

http://weberkettleclub.com/forums/weber-kettles-accessories/another-basket-case-introducing-the-ggb-'gourmet-grate-basket'/msg305663/#msg305663
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Troy on June 22, 2017, 10:59:51 AM
Someone on the TVWBB combined baskets years ago and made the whole thing adjustable with a wingnut or something like that, but I think i like the simplicity of 'the bigger basket'
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: 56MPG on June 22, 2017, 11:14:41 AM
No they didn't. I was first! First I say! Just like the WKC - the very firstest Weber lovers club ever in the whole wide world.

And don't call me a wingnut!
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: mhiszem on June 22, 2017, 12:17:35 PM
Amazing lol!
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Troy on June 22, 2017, 12:20:26 PM
No they didn't. I was first! First I say! Just like the WKC - the very firstest Weber lovers club ever in the whole wide world.

And don't call me a wingnut!

Well that's how the internet works after all
it's how Al Gore invented it =D
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: theduke on June 22, 2017, 12:57:42 PM
This is a really cool mod for indirect cooking! Have already used it several times for that.
I had hoped to use it with my KettlePizza but it doesn't sit far enough back against the inside of the bowl. Using the tombstone / SnS combo I can just push wood off the back of the tombstone and it lands on the coals in the SnS. With this basket if I tried that it would wedge between the curve of the basket and the inside of the kettle. Also puts a little too much heat under that back edge of the stone. Bummer since I bet the openings on the flat side would keep temps under the stone a touch hotter if it just sat a little further back.
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on June 23, 2017, 05:33:44 PM
How many wings can you fit on the 22 with the mega basket?  50 if I counted right. [emoji16]

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170624/608ac72c75c03b47b1c606c7ad07313c.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170624/9cfd39e094b1784d1b608bd94cc79d50.jpg)


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Mike in Roseville on July 22, 2017, 07:15:41 AM
This large basket idea is great! Any idea how many would be needed for an RK? I am guessing 3 at least?
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Ken Mc on July 26, 2017, 08:01:01 AM
great idea...i just saw this and went out and made one for the 26...15 minutes...done.....
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Therustysaw on July 26, 2017, 03:47:58 PM
Thanks for this idea! I took an extra set and made one in 10 minutes, then used it today!


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Title: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on August 17, 2017, 06:34:23 AM
I smoked a chuck roast last night. Half lit half unlit weber coal in the big basket. Water pan under and top and bottom vents half. Grill was 240 when I left at 6pm and I returned at 11 pm and grill temp was 230. Apple wood for smoke. That weber coal is some nice stuff.

Also, I used olive oil and rubbed with Tony's then dusted it with black pepper. That paired well with beef imo

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170817/106acf5ec691003cda81b5af7ddc3037.jpg)


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Title: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Mike in Roseville on August 17, 2017, 02:16:43 PM
So I made my bigger basket for my 26 last weekend. It worked great! I think I'm going to get a few fire bricks to put in front of it truly make a 2 zone setup.

Love it so far! It was super hot above the basket. With all the vents shut the cooker was still at 150 over 4 hours later!

Thanks for the mod.

Next up is using 3-4 baskets to make mega basket for the RK.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170817/24553463ff77a3826aa0d02a068b2349.jpg)


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: mhiszem on August 17, 2017, 02:19:33 PM
Looks great!


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Mike in Roseville on August 17, 2017, 02:43:07 PM
Thanks. My question is... how do you guys do low/slow with this? Pile up unlit briquettes and add a few lit ones (Minion) or use starter cubes?


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on August 17, 2017, 02:57:55 PM
That works for low and slow. Also see above on my chuck roast cook. It worked great for low and slow


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: kemmons on August 17, 2017, 03:23:23 PM

Thanks. My question is... how do you guys do low/slow with this? Pile up unlit briquettes and add a few lit ones (Minion) or use starter cubes?


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ive done  both and they both work well.    I prefer to put 6-8 lit coals though. 


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: kettlebb on August 17, 2017, 03:25:53 PM
Vote one more for lit coals in the minion. Works great.


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Daveb50 on August 20, 2017, 08:27:12 PM
I made one of these for my 22" and then donated it, and the grill too, to one of my Daughters. Just picked up another 22" for $22, and got another set of baskets to make another 56mpg tray.
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Speedster on August 20, 2017, 09:29:51 PM
Awesome


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Mike in Roseville on August 22, 2017, 05:58:49 AM

Vote one more for lit coals in the minion. Works great.


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Ok...next question.

Minion on a basket like this : add lit coals to the middle or to one end?




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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on August 22, 2017, 06:25:26 AM
Yes. For low and slow. I also set top and bottom vents at half.


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: jrob0144 on September 06, 2017, 04:42:44 PM
I always light about 10-12 coals and dump on one end. Then fill the rest of the basket up with unlit charcoal. It burns long enough for me to do a small butt or a few slabs of ribs. Turns out some great meals. If you put an aluminum pan under the food it catches all of the drippings. You can even add water to it to act as a heat sink. Basically a cheap homemade slow n sear. Essentially it functions the same. All the matters is the food tastes good!


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: addicted-to-smoke on October 11, 2017, 12:45:34 PM
Really neat idea.

Made a big one for my dad's DD-code flat top 26. There's no intention of using it for his Performer.

It's 21" across, and whatever around. I used four #10-24 stainless bolts/nuts, two for the front flat edge and the other two at the curve.

(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2017/10/11/char-basket.jpg)

One day I may even cook with it, but probably not this trip. I'd like to modify it later with some expanded steel or something, to fill in the rear gap.
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: 56MPG on October 11, 2017, 01:19:11 PM
Nice one! Now that I think about it, and see that top view, we all have spare, past their prime charcoal grates laying around. Why not cut one down to fit the crescent shape and wire it in? Agree the gap is not ideal, but only when it's time to lift out the spent (and unspent) coals after a cook. It's true for the 22.5 version too, but the gap is smaller. I may give that a try myself - I have a 26er version in the works.
Title: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on October 11, 2017, 01:22:52 PM
Nice one! Now that I think about it, and see that top view, we all have spare, past their prime charcoal grates laying around. Why not cut one down to fit the crescent shape and wire it in? Agree the gap is not ideal, but only when it's time to lift out the spent (and unspent) coals after a cook. It's true for the 22.5 version too, but the gap is smaller. I may give that a try myself - I have a 26er version in the works.

Another clever solution I overlooked. I had been thinking about ways to close that in and never thought about cutting down a charcoal grate. I think brand new grates only cost $11.  (If you don't already have a spare)


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: addicted-to-smoke on October 11, 2017, 01:27:41 PM
I don't have anything to easily cut through a charcoal or cooking grates. I find cutting expanded steel annoying also. I'd more likely be scrounging for scrap flat pieces made from anything that's not galvanized.

Or for $15 shipped from Amazon you can sacrifice a pair of Weber char baskets to creatively "fix" other setups like this.
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on October 11, 2017, 01:33:07 PM
Yep. Lots of ways to do it. I will say a 4.5" angle grinder is money well spent. I bought an inexpensive one for $30 years ago and it has been very useful for all sorts of home and automotive projects.


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: addicted-to-smoke on October 11, 2017, 04:22:20 PM
LOL I have one of those and forgot about it. Pretty sure I used it to cut off the busted ash sweeps' nut on my old Performer years ago. Yeah it would rip through a grate. Need to buy a new cutoff blade for it; it's pretty worn down by now. Saved my bacon quite a few times.
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: vwengguy on August 27, 2018, 06:20:40 AM

I'm bumping this up because I want to keep celebrating this effective, cheap mod.  And also because I wanted to share some field data. 

Now the lid thermometer in my SSP isn't especially accurate, but here's what I've found so far:

1 chimney of KBB = at least an hour right at 400 degrees

1 chimney of Kingsford Comp. = at least an hour right at 450. 

The fire brick fence really gives a true indirect heat, and I've been thinking about some kind of 'catch' or 'keeper', because they are prone to falling down once I've got everything set up and I give the grates a quick scrape.  So far some wire bent into a U shape makes a decent clip, but I'll keep working on something better.

Just checking out one of the great posts here and I read about the fire bricks falling ...
What about the Weber Charcoal Rails that come with the 18” grills ?!? Sounds like a perfect fix, and cheap!


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: vwengguy on September 16, 2018, 08:58:12 AM
I just want to say thanks to Marty! @56MPG
I have my S’nS Plus and I love it, but I still had 3-4 sets of Weber baskets sitting in the garage with at least 2-3 New sets and I had time to kill. So I broke out the drill and pop rivet gun and a few mins later I had the famous harebrained idea from Marty ;-) 


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: qrczak1 on September 16, 2018, 09:15:52 AM
I have my set ready to be done, too[emoji6]
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: HoosierKettle on June 05, 2020, 05:51:54 AM
Bumping this thread. It’s a good one.


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: michaelmilitello on June 05, 2020, 07:11:09 AM
I love my bigger basket in the 26.  It’s a great alternative to slow n sear. 


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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Darko on June 05, 2020, 09:50:14 AM
I wouldn't say it's a great alternative, but it is a good one.  The Slow and Sear, like the vortex is a tool that is designed to do a certain job very well. If you do that job a lot, then those tools are worth it. 
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: DougWilsonsSlapper on June 06, 2020, 05:05:09 AM
I wouldn't say it's a great alternative, but it is a good one.  The Slow and Sear, like the vortex is a tool that is designed to do a certain job very well. If you do that job a lot, then those tools are worth it.
As in, low and slow and searing?

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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: Walchit on July 03, 2020, 08:50:23 AM
Bout to make one today I think
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: bait on July 03, 2020, 09:33:42 AM
I just made one yesterday. Excited to try it out with the rotisserie today
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: DynaGlide on July 20, 2020, 09:45:53 AM
I made one last year when I got my 26 and realized the slow n sear was discontinued. I used a cut up pizza pan for a drip tray and charcoal rails to hold heat bricks. I get north of 7 hours filling up the basket at around 235 really stable temps last time I tried it. The bricks act as heat sinks.

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Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: dwnthehatch on August 28, 2023, 11:04:14 AM
Super old thread. My MartyBasket is still going strong. What ever happened to 56MPG aka MartyG? Anyone want to pm me his contact info?
Title: Re: A bigger better basket case
Post by: JEBIV on August 28, 2023, 12:02:26 PM
Super old thread. My MartyBasket is still going strong. What ever happened to 56MPG aka MartyG? Anyone want to pm me his contact info?
info sent