When rust develops on the cooking grates, at what point should they be replaced?
As the nickel-plated finish on the cooking grates begins to wear off through normal use, rust will begin to set in. The grates don’t have to be replaced as long as the rust hasn’t reached the top surface, where it would come in contact with food. Once rust has invaded the top surface, however, it’s time to toss those grates and get shiny, new ones. For the 18-1/2″ WSM, the 17-1/2″ top grate can be purchased at most home centers and barbecue storesit is labeled as a replacement grate for the 18-1/2″ Weber charcoal kettle. The 17″ bottom grate must be ordered directly from Weber Customer Service at 800-446-1071. For the 22-1/2″ WSM, the 21-1/2″ top grate can be purchases at most home centers and barbecue storesit is labeled as a replacement grate for the 22-1/2″ Weber charcoal kettle. The 20-3/4″ bottom grate must be ordered directly from Weber Customer Service at 800-446-1071.
