ok brethren I found a possible alternative to building a coal basket yourself; a 14" x 6" double mesh round fry basket. ordered mine last night for less than 10 bucks here -
http://www.kitchensupplydirect.com/THU-SLFB006.html
i figure i'll make some legs out of bolts and give it a whirl next weekend. i'll let you know how it works.