I don't know maybe I am weird but I think the modding is part of the fun, just like I enjoy tending the fire, and trying out different rubs and things. I just generally tinkering with the smoker, food, and fuel to find good combinations and see if I can improve on them. If I wanted simplicity there are far easier ways to cook things. Of course that may change in the near future when I do my first brisket, I guess we will see how much I like tinkering, after tending a fire for double digit hours.