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When my smoker grates need attention, I put them on the gas grill that's set to high heat for approx 30 min. After that a quick couple swipes with a wire brush and they are good to go.
One would think the owner should be able to shed some light regarding how pellets could possibly get into that area. Of course, that would be admitting a design flaw and possibly opening him up to being responsible.
Hmm... a 48,000 BTU propane unit without enough heat to properly sear a steak? Seems a bit odd. Was this grill converted to natural gas by chance? In regard to skirt steak, was the meat blotted dry before putting it on the grill? This can help.
Welcome to SMF from Indiana. I think you will find a consensus here from most of the MES users that either going with a pellet tray OR taking it further with a mailbox mod and the tray are the ways to go. The chip method has a number of drawbacks.
In regard to using a cooler and avoiding carry over cooking: If the brisket was pulled once probed tender, let it sit open on the counter for a few minutes until the IT has dropped 5-8º before re-wrapping and placing in a cooler with towels.
David, smoked brisket left overs freeze very well. Only two of us here as well but I always do a full packer. After a great meal all of the remaining gets portioned out, vacuumed packed then into the freezer. BTW: I make a few of those portions in the amount needed to later dice up and use in...
Yeah, strips in general are a tad on the chewy/tough side. Don't do them that ofter anymore. When I have too (family), I use Adolph's on both sides with black pepper and garlic powder. Let 'em sit on the counter for at least 45 min before going on the grill. Adolphs does make a difference.