Weber Gourmet Barbeque System Spirit 300 Series Stainless Steel Grates - Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The Weber Gourmet BBQ System (GBS) Stainless Steel Grates are designed to enhance your grilling experience on Weber Spirit 300 series gas grills and SmokeFire EX4/EX6 pellet grills. This system allows for traditional grilling with the included stainless steel grate insert, and offers versatility by enabling the use of various GBS accessories (sold separately) when the insert is removed.

Figure 1: The Weber Gourmet BBQ System Stainless Steel Grate, featuring a removable 12-inch diameter circular insert. This design allows for both standard grilling and integration with other Gourmet BBQ System accessories.

Figure 2: The Gourmet BBQ System Stainless Steel Grate shown installed within a Weber Spirit 300 series gas grill. The grate fits securely, providing a durable cooking surface.

The grates are constructed from durable stainless steel, providing excellent heat retention and easy cleaning. The 12-inch diameter stainless steel grate insert can be removed to accommodate other Gourmet BBQ System components such as a griddle, wok, or sear grate (each sold separately), expanding your cooking capabilities.

2. Setup and Installation

The Weber Gourmet BBQ System Stainless Steel Grates are designed for easy installation into compatible grills. No assembly is required for the grates themselves.

1. Ensure Grill is Off and Cool: Before installing or removing grates, always ensure your grill is completely off and cool to the touch to prevent burns.
2. Remove Existing Grates: Carefully lift and remove your grill's existing cooking grates.
3. Place New Grates: Position the Weber GBS Stainless Steel Grates onto the grill's grate supports. Ensure they sit flat and securely. The grates are designed to fit precisely within the cooking box.
4. Verify Insert Placement: Confirm that the 12-inch circular stainless steel insert is properly seated within the main grate.

Your grill is now ready for use with the new Gourmet BBQ System grates.

3. Operating Instructions

These stainless steel grates function similarly to standard cooking grates but offer enhanced versatility with the Gourmet BBQ System.

3.1. Traditional Grilling

• With the 12-inch circular insert in place, the grates provide a full cooking surface for all your grilling needs, from searing steaks to cooking vegetables.
• Preheat your grill with the grates in place for 10-15 minutes on high heat to ensure optimal cooking temperature and to facilitate cleaning.

3.2. Using Gourmet BBQ System Accessories

• To use any Gourmet BBQ System accessory (e.g., griddle, wok, poultry roaster, sear grate), carefully remove the 12-inch circular insert from the main grate.
• Place the desired GBS accessory into the opening. Ensure it sits securely and level.
• Follow the specific instructions provided with your GBS accessory for preheating and cooking.
• Always use heat-resistant gloves when handling hot grates or accessories.

4. Maintenance and Care

Proper care will extend the life of your stainless steel grates and ensure optimal performance.

• Preheat and Brush Clean: After each use, while the grates are still hot (but not glowing), preheat on high for 15 minutes and then brush clean with a grill brush. This is the most effective way to remove food residue.
• Deep Cleaning: For a more thorough cleaning, allow the grates to cool completely. You can wash them with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately to prevent water spots.
• Dishwasher Safe: The stainless steel grates are generally dishwasher safe, offering convenience for deep cleaning. Ensure they are completely dry before storing.
• Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Do not use abrasive pads, steel wool, or harsh chemical cleaners, as these can scratch the stainless steel surface.
• Storage: Store grates in a dry environment when not in use to prevent corrosion.

5. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common questions and minor issues you might encounter.

5.1. Food Sticking to Grates

• Insufficient Preheat: Ensure the grill and grates are fully preheated before placing food. Stainless steel grates may require slightly longer preheat times than cast iron.
• Improper Cleaning: Residue from previous cooks can cause sticking. Ensure grates are thoroughly cleaned after each use.
• Lack of Oil: Lightly oil your food or the grates (using a high smoke point oil on a paper towel held by tongs) before grilling.

5.2. Grates Appear Discolored or Stained

• Heat Tint: Stainless steel can develop a "heat tint" (a golden or bluish discoloration) over time due to high temperatures. This is normal and does not affect performance.
• Food Stains: Persistent food stains can often be removed with a stainless steel cleaner or a paste of baking soda and water, followed by thorough rinsing and drying.

5.3. Grates Do Not Fit Properly

• Incorrect Model: Verify that your grill is a Weber Spirit 300 series gas grill or a SmokeFire EX4/EX6 pellet grill. These grates are specifically designed for these models.
• Improper Placement: Ensure the grates are seated correctly on the internal supports of your grill.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information regarding your Weber Gourmet BBQ System Stainless Steel Grates, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your original grill purchase or visit the official Weber website.

For additional support, product registration, or to view other Weber accessories, please visit the official Weber website or contact Weber customer service.

You can also refer to the general safety information document provided by Weber: Safety Information (PDF)