Replaced old kettle with a new one. the new improved ash catcher is great. You moved the temperature gauge to the other side off top vent, this will take some getting use to. but to be fair I use another temperature gauge mounted to the grate. The 26 inch is great. Mostly do indirect grilling and the 26 inch is perfect.I can do 2 butts or a whole brisket, no problem. I use this grill for all my smoking and grilling. Gave my Weber gas grill to my son. I got tired of it not being used. I do use 2 solid red bricks turn on there side for a heat shield.about 1/3 from the left on the charcoal grate. I like this better than the baskets.