I plan on purchasing the side firebox and using the charcoal side solely
as a smoker. That way I can smoke food to get the flavor I want and then
either finish or keep warm the food on the propane side (and/or fix
burgers and dogs for the non-Q savvy eaters).

This way, if the firebox rusts away, it's easily replaceable.

Thanks for all the info!

Nunya Bidnits wrote:
> "Tutall" > wrote
>
>> Let's emphasize, good product for the money. For a casual griller/
> barebecuer, they'll be fine. If you grill more than 52 times/year and
> slow cook 4-6 times a year or more, Chargriller won't last too well.
> Thin metal, etc. I burnt mine out in 3 years. But, I grilled on it 2x
> week, and did butts and ribs on it with the offset, it was damn sure
> worth it. For three years. If you're serious, go ahead and invest in
> something with 1/4" steel.>
> ================
>
> FWIW, I don't know if you were using gas or wood/charcoal since apparently
> that rig can use both, but if using wood/charcoal, the number one enemy of
> steel in a cooker is ash. It will accelerate the rust and corrosion process,
> and will be made worse if any water at all mixes with the ash, or in damp or
> rainy conditions. Cleaning the firebox of ash down to the metal after every
> use will prolong the life of the steel. Thicker is still better where steel
> is concerned but keeping it clean and dry always makes a difference.
>
> MartyB in KC
>