Question for pre 2012 MAK 2 Star owners

[NorCal Smoker]

So I have MAK 2 star #500 and love it. I have not upgraded to the new retro kit that has the full flame zone and new diffuser plate. For those of you that have upgraded:

1) Is it worth the $300?

2) I understand the benefits of a larger flame zone, but does the new diffuser plate make much of a difference on slow cooks?

I have always wondered why there was such a large gap between the grease pan and the side of the MAK, but now am wondering if it is worth $300 to fix?

Thanks for the help!

 

[RickB]

The new diffuser makes no difference for low and slow. It is required for the full flame zone. When I was running 626 it was worth it to me for the full flame zone. But if you use your Mak for mostly low temp cooks don't bother.

 

[Chili Head]

I haven't upgraded yet either but from what I understand the new insert keeps all the grease out of the bottom of the grill.
I recently cooked 4 butts at once and got more grease in the bottom than I would have liked.