Going to be getting tru-tel temp guages soon.
From what I have read it seems like most people put them in the lids. Is there a reason not to put them just above or just below the cooking grates? Or am I missing somthing???
Thanks
Mike

Depending on the length of the stem, it could read higher due to the heat rising along the edges of the cooker, around the pan.

If you put them near the cooking grate you have a few issues other than the one Bruce mentioned. If it is over the grate, then it will get in the way when you want to remove the grate. If below the grate, it will get in the way of installing the second grate plus it will get fat dripping on it which I think will distort the temp reading.

Believe me, BBQ is not that sensitive to a few degrees difference in temp. In the lid is good. If it's a few degrees different than the grate, no big deal.

I am waiting for my BQ-300 4" stem to arrive. I like the idea of easily removing the thermometer for winter, etc, so I am going to try using a stainless hex bushing, nut, and plug. That way, I can unscrew the BQ-300 and replace it with the plug.

Scroll down:

http://www.plumbingsupply.com/stainles.html