Good luck, you'll put some great stuff out on both of those. What kinds of things will you be grilling/smoking? (maybe a new thread to discuss your venture in the pros forum?)
I agree with the grease pan, but it's not emptying it that's the issue as you actually need to more often put water in there (to prevent flair ups).
I've mentioned this to Stuart. The heat expands the metal and it's tight. I would mention that to them as an issues for your purchase and I'm sure they'll work on it.
It is primarily for restuarants inside, so the initial design was without any seal. I do keep mine covered when not in use, with a good cover and only once had an issue after 6" of rain.
I would mention that too. I don't think it's a hard fix, but I don't know if that's been corrected on the current models.