Hinge Placement on 18” WSM

[xrodbob]

I bought a hinge for my WSM and have a question. Where should I put the hinge? In the back, back, side or side with a twist?

1) so twist the lid 90 degrees and put on left side to open right to left. Note the door is off to the right



2) Hinge in back for front to back or
3) Hinge on left to open right to left



The difference between 1) and 3) is that 1) allows the base of the hinge to straddle the seam of the midsection as recommended. 2) automatically does this. 3) just allows the door and thermometer alignment with a side open but puts the hinge off of the seam

Thinking side open better positions the handle and allows a quick temp jab from the right side (as I’m right handed). Also may help reduce smoke in face when opening (or am I over thinking that part)

Front to back just looks so much more normal. And probably easier to add/move/remove the cooked goods.

Any thoughts are appreciated, as always. Thanks!!

[Panhead John]

ecowper has done that to his, maybe he can offer suggestions.

[Purc]

https://www.youtube.com/@progers5019

Here is a YouTube video from the late Phil Rogers aka Phil n Florence about his mods on his WSM showing the hinge placement. Phil was a retired power company engineer who loved to modify his smokers and enjoy great BBQ. He did almost everything possible to his WSM. A really nice guy who is missed by all who watched and followed his BBQ journey.

[xrodbob]

The hinge on a 22” WSM makes sense on the back given the handle’s location right in front. It’s less clear how to do on an18”

However that’s still a great video and seems like a great guy. Definitely going to bank that cool SnS griller mod he showed. Thanks for the info!

[Jessterr]

Did not realize that Phil had passed. Watched many of his videos, felt like I knew him although we never met. We’ll miss ya Phil, thanks for your time with us.

[ecowper]

I have a WSM 22 and put the hinge on like your #2 …. Hinge at back, lid oriented traditional front to back, door in front, etc.

[PaulstheRibList]

Panhead John, that would be FANTASTIC!!!! Please text me when you are nearby, 337-794-9891, and I'll make sure I'm there!!! Can't wait to show you around!

[Panhead John]

Good deal Paul! Consider it done……please have some cushy pillows available for us on your slightly uncomfortable chairs..😂😂😂

https://pitmaster.amazingribs.com/forum/bbq-restaurant-roundup/louisiana/229448-the-adventure-continues-welcome-to-paulsribshackbarbecue-com?p=1482670#post1482670

[ecowper]

PaulstheRibList Man, I miss your WSM’s too! You did so much fantastic work with them. Sorry to hear that.

[Troutman]

Since I want my protein to be under the top vent so air flows up and around the cook, I do the opposite. I have my hinge on the thermometer side. I want my protein in front of me when I lift the lid. Bottom line, choose the side opposite where you want your food on the grate. If in the middle then it’s a toss up.

[ecowper]

I use the WSM 22 for big cooks that tend to occupy the whole grate

[xrodbob]

I usually center my food plus the 18" doesn't afford as much room for maneuvering. Will consider that if (when) MCS strikes.

[ecowper]

xrodbob yeah, the WSM 22 is used for those times when I’m cooking 6+ racks of ribs, or a brisket, or lots of pork butts. That kind of thing. When it’s something small, like a chuck roast, the poor thing gets lost on there.

[xrodbob]

After further thinking and not over thinking, plus considering the comments, I put it at #2 which was opposite the door on the middle section and the thermometer on the lid. Fits good and i really like the self-holding rest in the open position. Can't wait for the next cook to kick the tires.

Thanks for the advice!!

[ecowper]

I love the hinge. Best modification investment I made. If my kettle didn’t have a bale for the lid, I’d put a hinge on it, too