When I first started using a Weber kettle, I did not use baskets. In fact, I didn't even know about them.
After seeing photos of baskets, plus some pics of homemade baskets, I decided to make some of my own.
Some of you may recall these threads:
http://weberkettleclub.com/forums/weber-kettles-accessories/been-doing-some-fabricating-(pic-heavy)/
http://weberkettleclub.com/forums/grilling-bbqing/a-couple-trials-using-homemade-charcoal-baskets/
Last year (2017), and I had carved up a beat-up 22" kettle salvaging as much as I could.
The ring was there all winter in my garage just staring at me .... I knew that I had to do something with it.
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2018/05/27/IMG_8019.jpg)
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2018/05/27/IMG_8020.jpg)
Well, I ended up making three baskets out of that ring.
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2018/05/27/Image.jpg)
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2018/05/27/Image-3.jpg)
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2018/05/27/Image-4.jpg)
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2018/05/27/Image-2.jpg)
I also carved up another beat up kettle. This time an 18" economy kettle.
This basket is not quite half, but close.
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2018/05/27/Image-1.jpg)
I now use baskets nearly 100% of the time.
I have been inspired my many over the years, so I hope to pass along some possible inspiration. :D :D
Very cool. I have an extra 26 bowl that might meet a similar fate.
I have been inspired, what a great use of old beater parts kettles
Nice work!!!
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So creative. I think my fave would be the last pic. Imagine you could go quite a while with that setup.
Would love to hear how long you could get out of that without replenishing coals.
Can you measure how deep that ring you started with was? Also, do have any idea how much was cut off the top of the ring before starting. I just picked up a roadside kettle to do this. I am trying to figure out how much to cut off top and bottom to end up with the best shape. I am also thinking of adding a stainless steel mud pan as a water reservoir.
Quote from: stubblebum on June 04, 2018, 06:17:13 PMCan you measure how deep that ring you started with was? Also, do have any idea how much was cut off the top of the ring before starting. I just picked up a roadside kettle to do this. I am trying to figure out how much to cut off top and bottom to end up with the best shape. I am also thinking of adding a stainless steel mud pan as a water reservoir.
I cut just below the top of the cooking grate strap, so 2-3/4" down from the lip. Then 4-3/4" below that first cut.
Personally, I don't think a water reservoir is necessary, but it's your basket, so go for it. Good luck!
I already have the mud pan and it is not being used anymore so I will probably try it. Even if I didn't have it they are fairly cheap at a place like Menards or Harbor Freight.
Quote from: stubblebum on June 05, 2018, 01:36:39 PM
I already have the mud pan and it is not being used anymore so I will probably try it. Even if I didn't have it they are fairly cheap at a place like Menards or Harbor Freight.
Is your mud pan welded? Mine is riveted and not water tight. It works well and doesn't leak with mud in it but if I remember correctly it leaks with straight water in it. Good idea though. Hopefully it works. Let us know.
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Pictures online do look welded. Excellent idea. I'll check mine out. Maybe I remembered wrong. This could be the thing to complete the Marty bigger better basket for low and slow.
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Mud pan?
Drywall mud pan.
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Oh that kind of mud pan. That's a big reservoir!
Mine is from Menards and it is welded.
https://www.menards.com/main/tools-hardware/hand-tools/drywall-tools/masterforce-reg-14-stainless-steel-mud-pan/33414/p-1444423331924.htm
Yeah I'll say it again. Excellent idea. Awhile back I was trying to think of various things to use and didn't come close to finding this solution that I already own lol.
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Had a chance to use 3 of the 4 baskets, and they performed as expected ....
Just a bit over three pounds of whole wings on the 18.
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2018/06/07/Image.jpg)
A bunch of quarters ....
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2018/06/07/Image-2.jpg)
Some beer brats. Plenty of indirect space ....
(http://pics.weberkettleclub.com/images/2018/06/07/Image-1.jpg)
I gotta say, I will be looking for more beater kettles to carve-up .... :D 8)