Stainless steel threads (male and female) will “gall” if not properly lubricated. It is, indeed, like they are welded together. Using a little of this high-temp anti-seize…Got the 1250, assembled it, and about to finish my first smoke!
Also for some reason, one of my horn handles got messed up. I put them on before I put on the "lid sweep" by mistake, and when I unscrewed it, it bound up and goobered up the threads. Customer service is sending me a new handle. Their explanation was stainless steel sometimes when tightended almost "welds" to itself. Not sure if I understand or believe that, but happy they are sending me a new handle.
https://www.amazon.com/Permatex-771...ds=anti-seize+high+temp&qid=1649910693&sr=8-4
…will prevent the threads from galling.