Therm Port for Pre-2014 WSM

[DirectDrive]

I wanted to add a therm cable port on my '99 WSM and decided I would use Weber's location on the 2014.
It's 3-1/2" triangulated from the two adjacent grill strap bolts.
I also wanted something smaller than the OEM port so I could avoid drilling a large hole.
The smallest hole that the Maverick cables can enter is a 1/4" I.D. grommet.

High temp grommet rated for 500F



Measuring the grommet



Measuring the Unibit and marking the step above selected cutter



2014 therm port location



Hole is finished and ready for some paint touch up
The Unibit cuts a clean hole. An 1/8" standard high speed bit was used for a pilot hole.



Grommet installed



Maverick food probe inserted and grate probe going in beside.
It's a snug fit but not severe as the second probe goes in.



Someday I may opt for the "notch" (above) but this port will always be useful to gain access to the lower grate.

For comparison here's that big "horse eye" on the 2014...

[wrehfield]

 Looks good, nice job.

[AnakiMana]

Great mod to have documented. Thanks for sharing!

Sent via smoke signals from my Weber kettle

[addicted-to-smoke]

"Packs of 10 ... Ordered 1 Pack"

So now all you need is 9 more WSMs!

[DirectDrive]

"Packs of 10 ... Ordered 1 Pack"

So now all you need is 9 more WSMs!

Don't order anything.
Send me a PM.


 

[HankB]

Nice work! I've been using brass grommets but that looks like a good alternative.





(First mod - after that I figured out that one hole was enough. )