Jack.

Catdog. I agree ^. I cooked on a Pit Boss without a dome thermometer, and thus a small hole in the dome, while awaiting a Tel-Tru to replace the OEM. I did not experience any difficulties holding temperature.

KamadoDragonHawaii. A search for "Imperial restoration" or similar term should yield you some useful information. Good luck.

That is a beauty. And, as you say, in excellent condition. I know that there are at least a couple of members here who own or are knowledgeable when it comes to restoration of these kamados. One resource that comes to mind is The Ceramic Grill Store. While they may not have parts matching OEM, they may have something that will be a workable substitute. Good Luck.

lanternnate.

I agree. The occasional rock or piece of alien material does not bother me. What does concern me is finding pieces of partially charred construction or treated lumber. I've even found pieces of construction lumber with metal straps still attached by nails. I've never found this in KJ or RO lump. The brand I found it in a few times I have not bought again. As John points out, briquettes are a solution. So is extruded coconut charcoal.

Dan in Ohio.

Tom Owens. Sorry I can't help with your question, but there are several members here who have restored and who cook on vintage kamados who I hope will respond soon.

Beeastcity. Back when I had a LG24, I scrapped the OEM dome thermometer in favor of a Tel-Tru. Like yours, the shaft was a little larger than the original hole. I put a piece of masking tape on the inside of the dome to cover the hole and, drilling from the outside of the dome, used a titanium bit at slow speed to widen the opening. Worked like a charm. If you need to widen the hole significantly, I'd use bits graduating in size until you reach the desired opening size. Good luck.

Charleston Dennis.

Willib.

Beeeeyoutiful!!

John. And welcome back home to the USA. We look forward to seeing your cooks on the new KJ.

KevLeeds.