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Barbecue Tune-up
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Just like every other tool, barbecues require maintenance to perform at top level. Here's how to whip your grill into shape.
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By Ryan Shervill
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Many of us own barbecues that have seen better days. These backyard workhorses get left outside in all the elements, and are then called upon to perform for neighbours and friends hungry for an outdoor feast.
While you can go out and buy a new barbecue, there is another option. By investing in some replacement parts and a couple of hours of elbow grease, it is possible to bring your old grill back to like-new condition and appearance, and keep it from going into a landfill.
Is your barbecue old and seemingly obsolete? No problem. There is a large assortment of universal parts designed to fit just about any barbecue available. I did a complete restoration of a grill I had salvaged from a neighbour's curb. The parts are all available from your local home-improvement store.
1. Extreme Makeover
It's quite simple to make your barbecue look like new. The first step is to do a thorough disassembly and cleaning. Break down the barbecue as completely as possible - or as far as rusty hardware will let you. Use a strong degreaser and a pressure washer to remove as much grime as you can. (The cleaner it is, the better the paint will adhere.) Scrub any corroded areas with a wire brush and wash again. Once the parts are completely clean and dry, cover any areas you don't want painted with masking tape. Apply several thin coats of high-heat barbecue paint, both inside and out. This aerosol paint dries quickly to form an attractive matte finish.
2. Burn, Baby, Burn
Probably the most common replacement part, burners come in a vast array of sizes, shapes, configurations and materials. Direct replacement burners are available for most newer models, but if you can't find one for your old relic, there are several universal types. Be sure to measure the size of your existing burner and check whether it is of one-piece or split construction. (Barbecues with two burner knobs are split systems.) Match the size and type of burner as closely as possible with your old one. While sizes vary, the universal sets generally feature the burner body, bend-to-fit tubes and gaskets. Make sure you keep the old burner handy to help set up the replacement.
Click here for more barbecue cleaning tips.
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