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XL Woo Expander & Adjustable Rig Pairing - the ultimate expander system for the XL Big Green EGG.
Whether you’re cooking on one or multiple grids, using deflectors for barbeque, or grilling at varying heights, the Woo/Rig pairing is all about versatility and convenience. No other rack system matches its full capability.
Initial Components & Super Capabilities
To help follow the details, we divided the information into three parts/offerings:
1. Required EGG Accessories highlights the two EGG components used with the Combo. Not to worry, you probably already have both.
2. This Combo includes all the key CGS components you'll need for most cooks. You can easily grill and barbecue on one, one-and-a-half, or two grids. Grid height and spacing is easily adjustable. Many users find the Combo meets their entire needs. If you already have the Woo or are ok handling the ConvEGGtor, pick the 2nd option with no Woo Expander.
3. Super Capabilities Section is designed for those who want to unlock the full potential of the XL Big Green EGG. By adding a few extra CGS components, you can expand your capabilities, create impressive dishes and enjoy added conveniences. We offer key recommendations too.
Note: The greatest feature of the Woo/Rig Combo is its flexibility. You can add components and expand capabilities as your needs grow!
Now, let’s dive into the details:
1. Required EGG Accessories:
The Combo utilizes the XL cooking grid and ConvEGGtor. The grid is the one that came with your EGG. We recognize that most EGG owners use/start with a ConvEGGtor, so the Combo utilizes it as the heat deflector.
XL EGG Grid
XL EGG ConvEGGtor
Note: If you are not a fan of the ConvEGGtor, no problem! In the Super Capabilities Section, we’ll show you how to use a pair of CGS 18" Half-Moon Deflectors. These half-moons match the ConvEGGtor’s diameter, are easier to handle, and offer fantastic added capabilities. In fact, most EGG owners prefer the half-moon deflectors over the convEGGtor!
2. The Combo:
This Combo includes the essential components for the XL Woo/Rig rack system, allowing you to effortlessly tackle popular cooks across one, one-and-a-half, and two grids. The Combo includes:
- XL Big Green EGG Expander - CGS Woo,
- XL Adjustable Rig with Pair Crossbars - CGS Rig,
- 16" x 20" Oval Stainless Cooking Grid - CGS,
- 20" Half-Moon Stainless Cooking Grid - CGS.
First-time users often discover that the learning curve is surprisingly quick when they start cooking. Many find the Combo meets all their needs right out of the box.
XL Big Green EGG Expander, CGS Woo
The Expander is a versatile two-ring basket designed for optimal cooking from fire ring to felt line. The top ring elevates the XL cooking grid just below the base felt line, making it ideal for direct grilling at temperatures between 300°F and 400°F. The XL's cooking grid slips over the handles and sits atop the Expander.
The Expander's lower ring is at the top of the fire ring and holds the ConvEGGtor, legs up, on indirect and barbeque cooks. You'll use the ConvEGGtor just like before, except now you have handles to better manage the ConvEGGtor. To grill on the fire ring, just go with the XL grid directly on the fire ring like you normally do.
Note: Like the EGG EGGspander, the ConvEGGtor slips into the Woo Expander from the top.
Strong Recommendation: The optional 18" Stainless Drip Pan is designed to protect both the ConvEGGtor and the EGG from messy drippings. To protect the pan and make for easy clean up, line the pan with two sheets of 18" wide foil in a "+" pattern.
Woo Expander Specs: The Expander raises the XL grid approximately 3.25". It can sit in or out of the ConvEGGtor notches on older fire rings. Top ring is approx. 23" OD. Bottom ring is approx. 14" OD. Bottom ring can handle 14" to 20" diameter accessories. All 304 Stainless. Made in the USA by CGS.
XL Adjustable Rig with Pair Crossbars
The Adjustable Rig is a versatile 5-level rack with 4 notch levels and top ring. The Rig's two crossbars span the notches and support a grid, half-moon deflector(s), or drip pan at varying heights inside the Rig. The Rig's top ring accommodates the Combo's 16"x20" Oval and 20" Half-Moon Grids.
The Rig can be placed directly on the fire ring or combined with the XL grid, ConvEGGtor, and/or Woo Expander for multi-grid or super elevated cooks. As you read along, you'll begin to appreciate all the possibilities for grid placement. Trust us when we say, we are only showing you the popular set-up options - there are plenty more possibilities.
For Barbeque, you can easily configure grids to accommodate a wide range of meats, from slender ribs to large briskets and pork butts. The 16x20 grid can handle 3 full racks of baby back or St. Louis-style ribs, one big brisket or two big pork butts. Add the XL Grid and you can easily double the cook. A Big Plus is the ribs smoke as full racks and flat for easy handling, no need for a rib rack.
By moving the 16x20 grid up or down, you manage the space between grids and room above the 16x20 top grid. This is a big plus when smoking multiple and/or varied meats.
Some EGGheads like to elevate the drip pan above the ConvEGGtor. It is easy to do, just pick an upper Rig level and use the Crossbars to hold the 18 drip pan. This can also act as a double indirect which is a technique used by some Kamado Joe owners. Pictured below left, the 18 drip pan is perched right under the top 16x20 grid.
The photo below right might have you head scratching - why a drip pan between grids. Many EGGheads like to smoke ribs and chicken together. A middle drip pan is perfect for separating the two meats and preventing drippings from one hitting the other.
For direct grilling on the Rig (no deflector), you have tremendous flexibility. The Rig can sit directly on the fire ring or atop the Woo Expander for high in the dome grilling. The Rig's open front allows for easy access in and out of the Rig.
With the Rig on the fire ring, the two lowest Rig levels keep the 16x20 grid just above the fire ring. These levels provide easier access to what's cooking when compared to the XL grid on the fire ring. We like doing burgers at these two lower levels - still get the char but the grid is up which makes flipping burgers much easier.
The third and fourth Rig levels position the 16x20 grid near the felt line. Atop the Rig, the 16x20 grid is approximately 2" above the felt line. A big plus using the 16x20 grid over the Woo Expander and XL grid is with the 16x20, you have side access to the fire for adding smoking wood.
The Rig on the Woo, going high in the dome, is perfect for "roast" grilling at higher temperatures with less risk of burning your food. You can also adjust the 16x20 grid up and down the Rig to better manage temperature.
Grilling spatchcock chicken and sausage atop the Rig is one of our favorites, and high in the dome is the perfect spot for pizza.
Adjustable Rig Specs: The Rig is 6" tall. The front opening is 16-1/2" wide. Lower ring is approx. 23" OD. Top Ring is approx. 19.25" OD. The four brackets are laser cut from 3/16" plate. All 304 Stainless. Made in the USA by CGS.
Note: The ConvEGGtor does not fit inside the Rig. The XL Grid can't be use atop the Rig because the grid does not fit in the dome.
16" x 20" Oval Stainless Grid:
Its wide oval shape easily accommodates three full racks of baby back or St. Louis-style ribs, one big brisket, or two big pork butts. Inside the Rig, the grid rests securely on the Crossbars. Atop the Rig, the 16x20 grid sits flat side forward.
The 16x20 Oval Grid can rest on the Woo Expander's lower ring, allowing you to grill at the fire ring. Again, the benefit using the 16x20 over the XL Grid is you have access to the lump, making it possible to add smoking wood during the cook.
16x20 Grid Specs: The Oval grid is 16" wide and 20" long. Crosswires are 0.188" diameter. The 16x20 grid is a trimmed 20" round grid. All 304 Stainless. Made in the USA for CGS.
20" Half-Moon Stainless Grid
The 20" Half-Moon Grid is designed to rest on top and along the backside of the Rig, Along the back is best, as it opens up access to the XL or 16x20 grid below.
Users report that the grid's size is more than adequate for grilling vegetables or serving as a holding area. The fixed design offers significant advantages over the sliding EGGspander grid, providing stability and ease of use.
You have two options for positioning the half-moon grid above the fire ring. The lower setting places the Rig directly on the fire ring, with the half-moon grid just inside the dome. The higher setting places the Rig on top of the Woo Expander, raising the half-moon grid high into the dome.
20 Half-Moon Specs: Size is approximately 10"x20". The 20 half-moon is one-half of the 20" full round grid. Crosswires are 0.188" diameter. All 304 Stainless. Made in the USA for CGS.
Important for very old XL EGGs:
If your XL Big Green EGG is newer than 2014, you can skip this. For XL EGG's older than 2014, you need to read the 'Important Old EGGs' Tab below.
3. Super Capabilities:
As we mentioned earlier, many users find that the Combo above meets their needs. However, if you truly enjoy the XL EGG or frequently cook for large gatherings, this section is for you.
With a few additional accessories, you'll be able to easily handle the deflector, create two zone grilling, enjoy a straightforward reverse sear set-up, or barbecue up to 9 racks of ribs.
Two Recommendations:
- If you're on the fence about the ConvEGGtor, do yourself a huge favor and go for the Half-Moon Deflectors paired with the Half Stone Hanger. Together, they deliver a powerful one-two punch that takes your grilling to the next level.
- If you're cooking 9 racks of ribs, the 20 Grid and Slide Guide are a must. Plus, the 20 Grid also offers a slightly better fit for the Woo's lower ring or atop the Rig compared to the 16x20 Grid.
Click the Tabs for Details
Half-Moon Deflectors
Pair 18" Half-Moon Deflectors
As noted earlier, many users prefer the 18" Half-Moon Deflectors over the ConvEGGtor. The half-moons provide greater versatility on the Woo Expander and, unlike the ConvEGGtor, can also be used on the Adjustable Rig.
On the Adjustable Rig, you can have very cool set-ups that can't be done with the ConvEGGtor or on other rack systems. Check out Best Kamado BBQ Set-up and XL Half Stone Hanger here in the Tab Section.
On the Woo Expander, the half-moons slide in from the side, making them easier to insert and remove. Unlike the ConvEGGtor, handling the half-moons allows you to avoid touching the XL grid or the food, which is a significant advantage.
In the picture below right, you can see how the 18" half-moons offer similar indirect coverage to that of the ConvEGGtor. The 18" Drip Pan makes a perfect match.
Another advantage on the Woo Expander is the ability to use just one half-moon deflector to create two-zone grilling. This setup allows for one side to be indirect with the half-moon, while the other side provides direct heat from the fire.
Half Stone Hanger
Half Stone Hanger for the XL Adjustable Rig, CGS
The Half Stone Hanger offers a fantastic feature: it allows you to slide a stone under the 20" Half-Moon Stainless Grid, creating an indirect cooking zone atop the Rig. No other rack system positions a deflector directly under a top grid. This setup is perfect for reverse searing or utilizing a holding spot high in the dome.
The Hanger attaches to the Rig's top ring and suspends under the 20 Half-Moon Grid. The Hanger holds one of the 18 half-moon deflectors under the grid, creating an indirect set-up. The cool thing is you can slide the deflector in & out and switch between direct and indirect during the cook.
You have options on height and grid spacing. Use the Rig on the Woo Expander for a super high position or go lower with the Rig on the fire ring.
20" Round Stainless Grid
20" Round Stainless Grid
The 20" grid sits atop the Rig and on the Woo's lower ring. Add the 20 grid and XL Slide Guide for the three-grid rib cook.
The 20 grid is a slightly bigger version of the 16x20 grid. Many users also find that the round shape of the 20" grid aligns better visually when grilling atop the Rig. You'll see a round grid in a round grill
XL Slide Guide
XL Slide Guide
The Slide Guide functions as a rail that supports the 16"x20" Oval Grid, allowing the grid to slide in & out easily from inside the Rig. Additionally, the Slide Guide can serve as a second set of Crossbars, holding half-moon deflectors and/or a drip pan.
Note: The Slide Guide only works on the two lower levels of the Adjustable Rig. There is no need to use the Slide Guide in the upper part of the Rig.
Best Kamado BBQ Set-up
Best Single Grid BBQ Set-up all Kamados
Simply, the XL Rig, Pair 18" Half-Moon Deflectors, 18" Drip Pan and 16"x20" Oval Grid is the best indirect (BBQ) set-up in the market today for kamado grills. Nothing matches it for convenience and performance. We'll put the XL Rig's capability up against any rack system on the market.
The set-up yields better airflow, provides easy access to the lump and produces more consistent temperatures over the grid. What XL EGG owners love about this set-up is you don't have to touch anything to manage fire or smoke.
Important Old EGGs
Important for Older EGGs
From 2008 to 2014, the XL EGG went through several improvements. If your grill is older, we recommend you take the measurements outlined below to confirm capabilities.
XL Woo Ring: To make sure the XL Woo Ring fits, measure from the top of the fire ring to the felt line. The measurement needs to be approximately 3-inches. See picture below left.
XL Adjustable Rig: For the XL Adjustable Rig to work in tandem with the XL Woo or EGG ConvEGGtor, the measurement from grid to daisy wheel needs to be at least 16-inches. Follow the three steps and see picture below right.
1. Set the XL Big Green EGG cooking grid on the fire ring and close the dome; No ConvEGGtor in the EGG.
2. Slide a tape through the daisy wheel until it hits the grid;
3. Take the measurement at the daisy wheel. It needs to be at least 16".
Other Fun Cooks
Maybe one of these specialty set-ups will peak your interest.
Cast Iron: We recommend keeping it close to the fire so it can absorb the necessary heat for high temperature grilling.
For a grid setup, we recommend using the 18" large cast iron grid on the Woo's lower ring. It offers more cooking area than one XL half-moon grid and keeps everything directly over the fire. On top, the Rig with a half-moon grid/deflector/hanger setup creates a perfect searing station for steaks, ideal for reverse searing—no mid-cook adjustments needed.
For a griddle, below right, best to go only one half-moon, as two can create a significant cap over the fire ring. Note, the XL half-moon grid above the half-moon deflector is a full XL grid cut in half, (sku 110145 Half). The EGGspander Half-Moon grid, (sku 121202) does not fit the XL Woo Expander.
Wok: The Woo's lower ring holds a 16" to 19" round-bottom wok for stir-frying. Add the Rig with the 20 half-moon grid or 18 half-moon deflector above to create an upper shelf. A great way to expand your grilling options.
The EGG's XL Perforated Half Grid is an excellent choice for grilling veggies and other delicate items. Just like the Wok or Cast Iron, it works seamlessly on the Woo or Rig setups. For best results, be sure to support the perforated pan properly
