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I started with a brinkmann EBC but I'm looking to upgrade to a WSM 18.5". Is there anything that needs upgrading immediately or is it good to go from the box. The EBC needed a couple things so I'm just trying to brace myself before dropping $300
Nope. Should be good to go right out of the box. If it leaks a little give it a couple of cooks and it should seal up on it's own. It'll cook a little hot until it seals.
Not sure if its cool to refer to another site, but check out the virtual weber bullet site and forum. A wealth of info. While its ready to go out of the box, I decided to build an ash 'basket' out of an extra grate, some eye bolts and stainless zip ties. I also sprung for a Cajun Bandit door and a NOMEX gasket around the door and top/bottom section joints
Again, these are all 'nice to have' really not required. Smoke on!
Basically there is a wealth of info out there for the WSM (google the virtual weber bullet). As others have stated, you are good to go right out of the box!
For me, I decided to do the firebox mod (made a 'basket' out of the fire ring, grate, a second grate at 90 degrees to the first and some stainless zip tied and hardware to lift the 'basket' and shake out the coal)
I also got the Cajun Bandit door upgrade and put NOMEX gasket around door and middle section to top and bottom joints.