Big Joe Restoration project

cameronleespener

Found some matches.
Joined
Aug 27, 2020
Location
Seattle, WA
Name or Nickame
Cameron
Hello there!

I'm a seasoned cook, but just getting into the world of grilling/smoking after moving to the suburbs this year.

Currently I'm working off a Weber Performer that I got off craigslist and cleaned up real nice.

But however nice the kettle, it's not the bbq I was looking for...

So I recently found a Big Joe for sale on fb marketplace for an irresistible price. The main body is in not terrible shape, but it's missing quite a few items, and will need some cleaning/repair.

I'm hoping the combined expertise hear can help me get this thing in good working order for the least amount of extra $ possible, and more importantly without damaging the integrity of the grill.



Condition Report:

The ceramic body itself is in good shape with no major cracks or chips. There are a few issues that need to be addressed however:

1) The upper part of the interior has some green staining. I assume this is from algae/moss since I live in the PNW. Any tips on how to gently clean this, or should I just do a burnout when I get the rest set up?

2) I've already ordered the replacement wire mesh gasket kit, but one thing I'm not sure about is the felt that is sandwiched between the band and the ceramic. I can't seem to find any info on what kind of felt this is, and how best to find and attach it.

3) I'm not sure what to call this, but the hole that helps align the hinge on the back side of the band has been worn quite a bit. Making the hole about 1 1/2" long and the ceramic a bit crumbly there (see pic). Does anyone know of any substance I could safely patch this with?

Missing parts:

At the low price I got I wasn't too concerned about replacing a few parts, but after price checking I found I need approx $400-$450 in replacement parts. I can get most of these from BBQ Guys, but I figured I would reach out to the community here and see if people had recommendations for third party replacements or custom ideas. Here is a list of what I need:

Firebox
Deflector
Grill Grates
Flex cooking rack (is this necessary or is there another way to grill/smoke without it?)
Replacement Gasket kit
Missing the upper half of the cart, not sure if I will try and purchase that, or make a custom table
I will be focusing on grilling and smoking with this grill, so I don't really need some of the specialty items.



I know this is a lot of information/questions, so don't feel like you have to address everything, but if you have some advice on any of the subjects, I'd greatly appreciate it.




Thanks and happy grilling!
 

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