I wonder if they upgraded the thin Firebox Steel and Grate that let Charcoal slip through? I don't have the dexterity or touch sensitivity in my fingers anymore, Carpal Tunnel issues. I can't fuss with Mods and need any equipment I purchase to be bug free out of the box...JJ
I don't think they've upgraded to thicker steel anywhere on the GF series. They're selling like hotcakes. Unless you can, or have someone else do the firebox mods, this grill is not for you. My 1050 that I got in April had a burn through in the firebox within a month. I did the mod and the stainless steel replacements have only slight warping from the high heat. It's a very simple and easy to do mod, took me about an hour to install. I totally understand about your neuropathy problems. I'm recovering from a severe bout of shingles that pretty much paralyzed my right arm from the shoulder to fingertips.