Build vs Modify?

[smokey5]

I have a char-griller pro I found for free but needs a little work and it is missing some parts.

I ran the math for parts to build it out (grates, fire box, wheels, etc). and seal it up (angle iron around lid, fire rope, sealant, etc.) and it comes to less than $200.

Sure it won't be the wholly grail of 1/4" metal but from what I'm seeing it should serve my home/family use just fine for a couple smokes a month.

I figure I can pull out the tuning plates (once installed) and run it as a standard charcoal grill if desired. I also have a fire pit I can use as a standard grill when I'm running the smoker.

All that said, is my logic sound or is it better to drop $500 on a slightly better smoker? The only thing I'm seeing around the $500 mark are the oklahoma joes and WSM (22") but I'm tracking the newer joe's are lesser quality and I think the WSMs are great but not in a rush to drop the $400 on one PLUS modifications.

Thoughts?

 

[SonnyE]

Only you can truly decide the return on the rebuild. Sometimes a trip around a big box store (where you might also find the parts) will help determine which way to go.
Another browsing tip would be to compare the shipping weights of online sites. It can be an indicator of how solid a grill is.

That said, I have a CharGrill gas grill I converted to run on Natural Gas which is tapped off in my backyard gas line.
It was given to me when the Son and DIL moved to their new house. Around 5 years ago. It's been a great grill for me.
When one of mine burns out, I weigh the fix or replace equation.

$200 is 40% of investing $500 towards a new grill. For some food for thought.

 

[tallbm]

Hi there and welcome!

Nothing will ever be better than what you can make it... provided you have good materials to begin with and you know what you are doing :)

 

[daveomak]

You will have to remodel any mass marketed smoker you purchase... Fix what you have and make it a great smoker for a few bucks...

 

[smokey5]

Just a quick up for those considering the same.

I went with a Weber Performer deluxe due to aftermarket support, speed to get fire going, and the variety of things it can do.

It was not cheap but certainly saved a lot of time and headaches.