Ok, so here's my take on this. Are we wanting restoration parts or mod parts?
If it could be the best of both worlds, that would be cool. Oh yeah, it needs to be affordable.
At $50, its not. At $20, I think it is. I'm not counting shipping costs, just the part itself.
Facts:
The old sweepers will be gone and only old stockpiles will be available.
Old MT's and any old Performer grills could benefit from this part.
Retrofitting to the newer style ash bucket is always an option.
Installing the newer ash bucket on and old bowl requires a mod of some sort.
Hose clamps is one. Thats the easy method, but I for one don't care for the look.
There are other options, cut a groove in the leg socket or use self tapping screws to hold the ring to the socket.
Both of those options permanently damage the bowl and therefore can possibly reduce the collectible value. Are we wanting function over originality?
So, what is the best option? A consensus would help the guy who is willing to take the time to build them, he is the one risking his time and energy and most of all money.
I like the origianl part. I also like the idea of having it work with the newer H style OT.
It doesn't need to be SS. Aluminum should work as long is it can support the weight.
Steel is still an option. Users would just need to do maintenance on that part. Clean, protect with high heat bbq paint. It will last a long time.
The trick to the H drive is the thickness of the material that they use for the washer. Its thinner than the old style washer.
Conclusion:
Can this cross bar be reproduced that would work with the H drive?
My opinion is that its probably not worth it. At least not for most people who do restorations.
I would just stock up on the older OT assemblies or look to convert to the newer ash buckets.
So is there enough interest in this part being reproduced? I would say its a limited market.
So Brain, you got your work cut out for you.
Without your efforts, we wouldn't have the most amazing wood handles for our grills.
I think that without them, the hobby would not be what it is today.
How easily can you take an old beat up grill and make it pop back to life?
Now if we can get someone to make old style wheels and ash pans for 3 wheelers? Anyone?
Thanks again Brian! And Gummi too for all the effort he put into this as well.