New WSM 18.5" – is this a defect?

[RichPB (richlife)]

It looks like the notch is bent outward. If so, it's damaged. Regardless, call Weber support and also have a closeup pic ready that shows the lip.

 

[Bob H.]

Looks like Weber should exchange for a perfect one to me.........

 

[timothy]

It doesen't look like a runaway QC problem because that's like the fourth one I've seen posted on here in two years.

 

[Loc]

I have same notch but on dome end of my middle section (newish 18” wsm purchased this year). Maybe there’s corresponding notch on charcoal end too but I’ve gasketed that end and wsm is on duty now so can’t verify. I don’t thunk them V notches are for probes. I tried routing 2 probes and it’s no better than notchless, wobbly. Me thinks the V notches aid during manufacturing to align the cylinder, not for us endusers.

 

[Loc]

View attachment 58529this is how my new smoker came.
Also when I put the lid on there is a slight rocking.
I will be contacting weber tomorrow.

I taped a gasket on the lid, no more wobble. Although pre-gasket, it wobbled only “slightly”. I think after being seasoned with use, it all tightens up like my abs, just kidding.

 

[BobM]

I have same notch but on dome end of my middle section (newish 18” wsm purchased this year). Maybe there’s corresponding notch on charcoal end too but I’ve gasketed that end and wsm is on duty now so can’t verify. I don’t thunk them V notches are for probes. I tried routing 2 probes and it’s no better than notchless, wobbly. Me thinks the V notches aid during manufacturing to align the cylinder, not for us endusers.

My notch is is on the dome side also.