Found this well cared for lovely Black MBH on CL in MA. The original owner is deceased. The seller was his son, who was at his parents house to clean it out due to the recent passing of his mother. He was down from Ottawa.
The kettle was stored all the time in a little shed. Hasn't been used in 5 years or so. It's in excellent shape and will look new if I decide to make it look that way.
The seller and I spent ~25 mins bs-ing. He was receptive to the fact that there's a bunch of folks who love these grills. His avocation is Coleman stoves/lanterns. He's even posted some youtube vids about them.
He had it out on the driveway when I arrived. He came out from behind the house and said he was looking for one of the axle end caps that had come off somewhere from the shed to the driveway. I said no big deal, but we spent a few minutes looking for it because, by god, I want original equipment!
No luck finding it. Then, as I was handing over the asked price of $20, he said nah, just give me $10. He said he was glad it was going to someone who appreciates it.
I know you guys know that part of being a good person is to accept the kindness of others, so I was a good boy.
Here it is. No rim rash. No rust on the grill really. Some on the triangle. Mild orange peel, which should improve with a cleaning. Large bowl vent tabs.
Meanwhile, here's an email from Weber CS:
Jenny (Weber Grills)
Sep 15, 10:35 AM CDT
Hi Peter,
I can see from your account that you are a huge Weber fan!
I would be happy to send you both kits complimentary.
Can you please just confirm your mailing address?
Thank you
Weber is sending 1 18.5 and 1 22.5 ash sweep kit, gratis.
Yeah, I do love Weber.