Which WSM 22" Hinge?

[ClubChapin]

Which hinge is preferred?  Does anyone have experience with both types and can make a recommendation?


https://unknownbbq.com/22-5-wsm-hinge/


https://www.hunsakersmokers.com/collections/weber-modifications/products/stainless-steel-wsm-hinge-clip


I'm leaning toward the Hunsaker.  I like the pinless floating design and the clip to keep the bowl and midsection together, opposite the hinge.  It looks like the lid can be removed and replaced a lot easier than the Unknown with the pin.  Also, it is 4 (vs 6) holes in the WSM to install.


Thoughts?

[Big Dawg]

I'm not dissing the Hunsuker.  I've never see it, and I've hearnd nothing but good things about the company.

I've used the Unknown BBQ hinge pretty much since it first came out.  I've never had a problem with the barrel separating from the base.  And as long as you can keep the hinge over one of the legs, it provides all the support that you need to keep it steady.

And once you drill your first hole or cut your first probe wire slot . . .





BD

[dirtfishingman]

For people that have done a this do u seal with high temp sealant to prevent rust?


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[ClubChapin]

I think when drilling a hole in the smoker, many folk paint the exposed metal with high heat enamel bbq paint.

[Big Dawg]

I never worried about it, I figured that if there was any way for anything to get in there, smoke & grease would take care of it.





BD

[Mike in Roseville]

I have the Unknown BBQ hinge and I must say...it makes the 22WSM a joy to cook on.

And yes...use a little high heat black and gently brush it on to the exposed metal.

As for the pinless vs pinned hinge...I took out the pin on the Unknown BBQ hinge, brushed out the inside of the lid before my last cook and put it back on effortlessly. As for drilling, @Big Dawg is right; once you start drilling, you're drilling. Or as I always say: "Measure twice...cut less than that"

[ClubChapin]

Thanks. Seems like I will not go wrong with either hinge.

Do we have anyone that has used the Hunsaker hinge?  Maybe I will TOFTT.

[ClubChapin]

I saw the Hunsaker hinge on sale and just ordered it. Not fast flat rate shipping is a very reasonable $2.

https://bbqsmokermods.com/oem-smoker-mods-by-brand/weber-smokey-mountain-wsm/hunsaker-brand-floating-lid-hinge-for-wsm-22-5.html

[hawgheaven]

I'm a an old school lid lifter. Never saw the need for a hinge...

[JEBIV]

I'm a an old school lid lifter. Never saw the need for a hinge...

Me too, I have a real heavy cocktail glass that helps me stay balanced when I lift the lid

[ClubChapin]

I'm a an old school lid lifter. Never saw the need for a hinge...

I don’t have a good place to set the lid that is not on the ground.  I don’t want to pick it up off the ground and lift it over food.

[hawgheaven]

I'm a an old school lid lifter. Never saw the need for a hinge...

I don’t have a good place to set the lid that is not on the ground.  I don’t want to pick it up off the ground and lift it over food.

I understand your concern. My approach is, lean the lid on its edge against the WSM. Do what you have to do inside the cooker, then reinstall. No muss, no fuss.

[Cloudbuster]

Anyone knows if one protrude more than the other making putting the cover on the smoker painful.

[Mike in Roseville]

Anyone knows if one protrude more than the other making putting the cover on the smoker painful.

You might need to use a different cover. I haven’t covered mine since adding the unknown hinge, but I also store it in the garage when not in use.


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[HoosierKettle]

You can always use a normal kettle cover. Just throw a bungee around it if it wants to blow off


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