Proof of concept - home made rib racks

[RonB]

I bought a 3' steel rod to test my concept for making rib racks. My plan is to make 3 individual racks so that I can use just what I need. I don't think 4 slabs of ribs will fit in the Weber ans still have enough space between the slabs. I can already see that I need to modify the dimensions, but I expected that. My design holds one rack upright and captures the ends under the grate so that the rack will not fall over under the weight of the slab. My current thinking is that I will use the following dimensions:

12" wide - 4" high for the back - 2" slot for the slab to sit in - 1.5" tall stop to keep the slab from sliding off - 1" tab to keep the rack from falling over

I think it's easier to understand with photos, so here are some. I think they are mostly self explanatory.





In this shot you can see the tab that anchors the rack. the straight rod that connects to the tab needs to protrude below the grate to prevent the rack from sliding out of the grate.

[RonB]

Things I learned while making the "prototype".

Gloves are a good idea when handling hot metal - no burns, but darn close...
The metal needs to be glowing hot to get a sharp bend.
Practice is needed on placing the rod on the jig so it can be bent before the rod quickly cools.
Layout lines help keep the bends square.
A large flat work surface is needed to keep the bends square and plumb. I'm thinking a 18" square of plywood would be minimum. (Smaller if you make them less than 12" wide.)

I will try to document the process when I get the ss rods - it's not hard, and kinda fun.

[Bob's BBQ]

Nice work - It's always more satisfying when done with your own hands. Looking forward to seeing the "production" model!

[Spinaker]

Great work!! It's very satisfying when DIY works out. This should work very well for you.

[Medusa]

Good Job and Nice Work RonB.!! Thanks for sharing, and we look forward to updates.

For some of us (ahem... ) DIY = Destroy it Yourself!

--Ed