Vortex

[AgentSmith]

I've read a few reviews of different Vortex devices saying they've had to swap their grill for a gbs Type where you can remove the centre piece.
Apparently the high heat is damaging the grill. Is this really possible??

[addicted-to-smoke]

I normally only come across truly roached, threadbare cook grates on the smaller used Webers. I guess they sit longer around moisture and have less frequent usage?

Point being, nickel-plated cook grates will always rust due to heat and moisture. Concentrated heat is what the Vortex supplies. That's not to say the center would get destroyed right away, but I'd expect the center to be worn sooner.

As an alternative to buying a GBS, you could be on the lookout for any sales of regular cook grates (or grills) and just consider them sacrificial.

[Mike in Roseville]

I used my vortex for a while on my 26.75 (with SS cooking grate) and I will say that after nearly a year the heat has discolored it considerably right above the fire area. It's not rust, but nowhere near as shiny as the other part of the grate.

I would say a normal plated grate would be toast. That said, a few cooks won't hurt, but if you plan on parking your vortex in your cooker for a long period of time, consider a GBS grate.


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[hawgheaven]

I use my SToK CI grate (removable center) with my Vortex. Works wonderful!

[Big Dawg]

If I ever cooked on my 22 I would definitely invest in the GBS.  In fact that's the main reason I wish Weber would make one for the 26er.





BD

[Jules V.]

This is currently my setup, #8843 outer ring grate with #7585 searing grate.

[AgentSmith]

My first attempt with the vortex made some wings
I used Nando's Hot rub an covered them with Reds True BBQ Devil wing sauce
Didn't go as crispy as everyone said. Tasted pretty amazing.

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