Replacing Dampers

[ajcarter4]

So I need to replace the bottom dampers in my 22.5" OTG. I got the replacement parts from Weber but I am having a helluva time getting the old ones off. Anybody else had this problem? Any advice? Thanks. I just found this site a few weeks ago and this is my first post. Now I can't stop reading the forums. So much great info. Thanks in advance.

[pbe gummi bear]

Welcome to the forum! You'll need a screwdriver to preload the clip:

[mike.stavlund]

+1 for gummi's wisdom.  ^^^^

[ajcarter4]

Gummi, thanks. I have the instructions that came with the replacement dampers. I'm not really sure what the three angled lines mean, but I pried at that thing all afternoon with a screwdriver and it wouldn't move. There is a fair amount of rust on the disc that holds the one touch arm in place. Boston winters are hard on kettles even if you keep them covered.

[1buckie]

"I'm not really sure what the three angled lines mean"

Meant to be pryed upward......there's a little (very little) tab on one side of the end of the handle.....you can just barely see the slot for it on the left side hole in the drawing.....
Pry "apart" sort of, then rotate the handle 180 degrees so that little tab will slide out thru the slot........
They are a pain until you do it once, then it seems easy.......possible someone pushed it thru the wrong side somehow & it's a bit jammed, combined w./ rust doesn't make life easy !!!

Maybe hit it w/ WD40 or some other rust dissolving compound & let it sit awhile?

I don't so much like using obnoxious chemicals where food will later be prepared, but sometimes it's warranted !!!!

[pbe gummi bear]

Twist the screwdriver, don't pry. And while twisting the screwdriver, rotate the  top of the ash sweep handle towards that side-likely clockwise with the left hand if you are right handed, if that doesn't work, try the screw driver from the other side. You should be able to jimmy it loose. If it's rusted through hit it with some penetrant.

[MacEggs]

They are a pain until you do it once, then it seems easy......

Very true.

Twist the screwdriver, don't pry. And while twisting the screwdriver, rotate the  top of the ash sweep handle towards that side-likely clockwise with the left hand if you are right handed, if that doesn't work, try the screw driver from the other side. You should be able to jimmy it loose. If it's rusted through hit it with some penetrant.

Yup, you need to be using both hands at the same time.
The screwdriver should be somewhat "beefy" and strong.  Not some flimsy dollar-store POS.

[Saugust]

+1 to all the wisdom above. I'll add that I try to get the screwdriver pushed as far in as possible and then twist. At that point it doesn't take much if you're also putting some force on the sweep handle. It should pop right out of the slot and off you go. And now for the dance of putting one on! Hope you have long arms!

[MacEggs]

And now for the dance of putting one on! Hope you have long arms!

Haha!!  I have to agree. 

[Red Kettle Rich]

If you have new parts, I suggest a hacksaw or dremel on the push-rod

[Saugust]

I started using bolt cutters. They'll cut through anything! And I don't own a dremel.


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[Jack Fate]

Hit that devil with PB blaster wait a day & hit it again . Only then proceed with the dissembling