1998 Smokey Mountain 18.5

[Raindog]

I'm a newbie to the WSM but know my way around the kettles. I just purchased a 1998 18.5" WSM sight unseen (had my brother pick up) for $80.00 on Craigslist. I bought it because of the wooden handle and was thinking it may be sturdier than the newer models. Now I realize the legs are not as beefy as the new models and there is no ash pan. I'm sure it was a good deal for the price but am I wrong in thinking older is better?

[LightningBoldtz]

I don't know if the older are better per se'

The "ash pan" is not an ash pan it is a heat shield

For $80 you got a good deal, no worries.

[Raindog]

Thanks Lightning. Heat shield makes sense now I guess because coals are closer to bottom than on kettles. I'll do my more research now that I'm loading the bullet...

[SmokenJoe]

Tried to get through earlier but LB is always quick on the trigger    As I recall, the earlier WSM 18's can be retrofit with the newer leg style (which is required for the installation of the heat shield).   YMMV but Weber CS should know, give em a call.

SJ

[Raindog]

Thanks Joe. I try not to do mods on my early kettles but plan on everyday use for this so I'll check into the legs.

[SmokenJoe]

I hear you, Raindog   ...   I wouldn't mod my older stuff (if I had any older stuff  ).   In this case the leg/heat shield upgrade is plug-n-play.   Keep the old parts to fully recover its history

SJ

[Raindog]

When I was a newbie with the kettles I drilled a hole and installed a thermometer in the lid of a mid 70's redhead kettle... 

[56MPG]

No worries if you're using it on concrete or brick. The heat shield is there for those using it on a wood or trex-type deck. Disclaimer: that's my personal opinion and belief only, not an official statement by anyone with a law degree. Fire can be bad. Sharp objects can be bad for that matter. Don't be an idiot.

[Raindog]

Thanks 56. My wife says there's no going back on me being an idiot but I'll take your non binding advise on the fire and sharp objects...

[tomtappel]

Good looking smoker


Sent from my iPhone using Weber Kettle Club mobile app

[Harbormaster]

There is no need to retro a WSMs legs to get the heat shield. I have cooked hundreds of times on a wood surface. The heat from the WSM does nothing to the wood it sits on.

And I just can't see spending $$ on a leg upgrade just because it looks good. Spend that coin on meat and fuel, maybe some other mods like a second charcoal grate, handles on the center section. You know.

BTW, $80 is a good deal on a WSM. Nice score.

[Filibuster]

   Upgrade that "beioch". The modern legs make it steadier and sturdier, upgrade the insides also. I've got a '99 and the only way you can tell is by the date code and the door. Whatever you do, enjoy it.

Sent from my SM-J700P using Weber Kettle Club mobile app

[Scott Zee]

I have 2 early 18.5's including a "C" code and have never had a problem with them on my deck. I don't know about the new leg set making it sturdier or more steady, neither of mine have ever fallen over. I wouldn't change a thing...just cook on that beauty. BTW, congrats on the pickup.

[Filibuster]

   I consider Webers a cheaper and easier version of cars to work on and the thrill and satisfaction when done is the same. If Weber has a good factory upgrade you best believe I'm gonna roll with it. Now only the one touch grills and late 90's smokers will face the drill. The early model grills and smokers will not be desecrated.

Sent from my SM-J700P using Weber Kettle Club mobile app

[pbe gummi bear]

   I consider Webers a cheaper and easier version of cars to work on and the thrill and satisfaction when done is the same.

Hey @Filibuster I feel the same way.