If you own a Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, this front shelf bolts on cleanly, folds away to save space, and gives you a sturdy 50-pound prep surface that handles pans, tools, and small coolers. It’s powder‑coated steel, so grease wipes off easily; installation is labeled and takes about 10–15 minutes with basic tools. Hinge alignment clears the lid and side panels, making it a neat, low‑effort upgrade—keep going to see more on fit, care, and alternatives.
Some Key Takeaways
- Sturdy powder-coated steel shelf bolts to Gravity Series 560 mounting points and holds up to 50 pounds.
- Folds away to save space and avoids increasing the grill’s footprint when not in use.
- Easy 10–15 minute installation with labeled hardware; requires 13mm wrench, Phillips screwdriver, and pliers.
- Cleans easily—wipe with warm, soapy water and use a non-abrasive pad for stubborn grease.
- Best for regular Gravity 560 users wanting a permanent prep surface; skip if you prefer portable or DIY options.
Quick Verdict: Is the Masterbuilt 560 Front Shelf Worth It?
While the shelf looks modest, it immediately proves useful if you cook on the Gravity Series 560 a lot—you’ll get a sturdy, easy-to-clean work surface that holds up to 50 pounds and folds away when you don’t need it. You’ll appreciate the space saving design: it gives you prep room without permanently expanding the grill footprint. Installation hardware arrives with the unit, and the powder-coated steel resists grime so you spend less time maintaining it. Seasonal durability matters—this shelf stands up to fluctuating temperatures and outdoor use. For focused, practical upgrades, this accessory earns its keep. Many grillers who value organization and efficiency also explore grill shelves and other stylish shelf options to upgrade their outdoor cooking setup.
What’s in the Box and How Easy Is Installation?
When you unzip the box, you’ll find the folding front shelf and a small packet of installation hardware—everything you need to attach it to the Gravity Series 560 without running to the toolbox. You’ll also see the instruction sheet and a single-page parts diagram useful for unboxing photos. Installation takes about 10–15 minutes. You align the bracket, insert the provided bolts, and tighten with common tools. Tip: follow the tool checklist—ratchet or wrench (13mm), Phillips screwdriver, and a pair of pliers—to speed the job. Fit is precise; hardware is labeled, and the instructions are straightforward and clear. Protect your grill with the right cover material to keep the shelf and grill in top condition.
Real-World Use: Stability, Load Capacity, and Cleaning
Clamped securely to the Gravity Series 560, the folding front shelf feels solid under typical prep loads and won’t wobble as you plate or rest a cutting board on it. You can confidently set pans, small coolers, or tools within the 50-pound limit, but mind weight distribution—keep heavier items centered near the grill to avoid leverage on the clamps. The powder-coated steel sheds grease; wipe spills promptly with warm, soapy water to prevent staining. For tougher residue, use a non-abrasive pad. Folding and unfolding is simple; inspect hardware periodically and tighten bolts as part of routine surface maintenance. Designed for outdoor cooking enthusiasts, prep tables like this one are a common choice for expanding workspace in backyard grilling setups, especially when paired with grill prep tables for organized meal prep.
Fit and Compatibility With Gravity Series 560 and Common Mods
Because the shelf was designed specifically for the Gravity Series 560, you’ll find it aligns with the grill’s front mounting points and sits flush without modification, making installation straightforward and tool-light. You’ll notice hinge alignment is precise, so the folding action clears side panels and maintains grill clearance for lid movement. Mod compatibility is strong with common add-ons—shelf depth leaves enough accessory spacing for tongs, sauces, or a small prep board. If you’ve added larger custom front-mounted tools, double-check clearance, but for typical mods the fit is secure, predictable, and hassle-free. Many RVers appreciate that the shelf supports outdoor cooking without adding significant weight or complexity.
Buy or Skip? Price, Alternatives, and Who Should Get It?
If you value a tidy, sturdy prep surface and already own a Gravity Series 560, this shelf is worth strong consideration — it bolts on cleanly, supports up to 50 lbs, and folds out of the way when you don’t need it. For price comparison, it sits midrange versus DIY or aftermarket trays; factor shipping and ease of install. Alternative brands offer similar panels but may need adapters. Your target audience: homeowners who grill regularly and want a permanent, low-effort solution. Purchase guidance: buy if you want durability and fit; skip if you prefer cheaper DIY or table-top flexibility. This accessory fits well into a complete grill cart setup for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Some Questions Answered
Does the Shelf Affect Grill Temperature or Airflow When Installed?
No, the shelf won’t markedly change airflow dynamics or cause major temperature fluctuation. You’ll notice minimal impact because it mounts externally and doesn’t obstruct vents or the charcoal chamber. In practical use, temperatures stay steady; occasional tiny shifts can occur when you place heavy items on it, but they’re negligible. You should still monitor temps during precision cooks, but for routine grilling the shelf won’t meaningfully alter performance.
Is the Front Shelf Compatible With Left/Right Orientation Accessories?
Yes — you can use the front shelf with both left side and right side accessories, but you’ll want to check orientation compatibility before mounting. You’ll align the shelf’s brackets to match existing accessory alignment points, then test-fit each tool or tray. If holes or tabs don’t line up, you’ll need adapter hardware or repositioning. In practice, it’s sturdy once aligned and won’t shift under normal prep loads.
Can I Lock the Shelf in Folded Position for Transport?
Yes — you can secure the shelf folded for transport using the built-in locking mechanism and basic transport safety steps. You’ll fold the powder-coated steel shelf down, engage the latch or bolts provided in the hardware kit, and confirm it’s snug against the grill. Double-check fasteners and use straps if needed to prevent movement. This practical approach keeps the shelf stable, protects finish, and reduces rattling during transit.
Are Replacement Screws or Brackets Sold Separately?
Yes — Masterbuilt doesn’t typically sell replacement fasteners or mounting adapters separately through retail listings, but you can get screws/brackets from their customer service or order generic stainless replacement fasteners that match the originals. You’ll want M6 stainless screws and matching brackets or adapters, checked against the shelf hardware. Contact Masterbuilt with model MB20181522 for exact parts or grab equivalent corrosion-resistant parts from a hardware store to guarantee secure mounting and fit.
Does the Powder-Coating Resist High-Heat Discoloration Over Time?
You’ll generally see good color retention from the powder-coating, but don’t expect perfect resistance under repeated high temps. In practical use, high temp testing shows powder-coat holds up to typical grill heat and occasional flare-ups, yet prolonged exposure to extreme heat or direct flame can cause slight fading or chalking over time. You’ll want to avoid sustained temperatures above manufacturer recommendations and clean it gently to preserve finish.
