So, the $75 Ranch kettle was in need of some work.
First off, A HUGE thank you to
@ramsfan for the top vent.
I bought the bottom vents from Weber, and installed them this morning. Full disclosure, I don't have the charcoal grate or cooking grate in yet. There was much discussion about using expanded metal and I might do that, or buy the Sunnydayze one from Amazon for cheap.
Still wondering what to do for the charcoal grate. Would expanded metal work for that? Thinking I'd cut it into a circular shape then set it on some metal rods cut to size.
Anyway, I repainted the frame a couple of weeks ago, then primed the bowl and lid. Since then, I've been waiting for the paint that I ordered from Menards, along with the bottom vents. The paint arrived in my community mailbox bank on Saturday. It was POURING rain. I was super excited to finally get the paint and proceed on the Ranch. Turned the key in the box. Wouldn't open. Kept turning it, nothing. Finally thought I was getting the lock open, instead I broke the key off in the lock. Said a few choice words, then went back home. Wrote a letter to my mailman to deliver the paint. He ignored it on Monday. He ignored it on Tuesday. I took matters into my own hands. Picked the lock with the broken key and some needlenose pliers. Got the paint.
Painted it last night, put it all together EARLY this morning.
BEFORE:
DURING:
AFTER:)
Overall, I love the look. I think it needs a name.
It's not perfect by any means, but after years of abuse, it's looking much better and is going to be well cared for.