Yoder Smokers YS480 3-Piece Stainless Steel Grate Set — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Yoder YS480 3-Piece Stainless Steel Grate Set?
This is a replacement or upgrade set of three food-grade stainless steel cooking grates designed to replace the stock expanded metal grates on the Yoder YS480 pellet smoker.
What are the benefits of using stainless steel grates?
• Greater durability and resistance to corrosion / rust compared to standard steel or expanded metal grates.
• More even heating and better surface contact for searing or direct grilling
• Easier to clean, with less flaking or degradation over time
• Upgrading to stainless steel helps maintain performance and longevity under heavy use
What are the dimensions and construction details?
The grates are made of food-grade stainless steel.
They are configured in three interlocking panels to match the standard cooking chamber layout.
These replace the stock expanded metal grates with a more robust bar-style construction.
How do I install the stainless steel grate set?
1. Remove the original cooking grates from your YS480.
2. Position each stainless steel grate in the same mounting ledges or supports.
3. Ensure that the grate panels align and interlock correctly so the surface is level.
4. Preheat gradually at first to allow the grates to acclimate to heat and to help stabilize any thermal stress.
Are there any drawbacks or things to watch out for?
• Because stainless steel is a harder material, it may feel slightly different under utensils (more solid)
• Initially, there might be a break-in period with seasoning or slight unevenness; monitor closely during first uses
• Make sure the new grates don’t exceed the grill’s loading limits—avoid overloading with heavy cookware
• Regular maintenance (cleaning, checking for warping, re-securing panels) ensures long life
