I like the larger temp gauge! I have modified all my grills except the kettle with larger units too do to my eyesite. I need to do the kettle as well. Yours looks very nice.
Good idea on the handle. I saw the video from the guy who did one on the bottom of his. Thats a great idea and a mod I plan on at some point.
Weber makes a rubber handle that fits on the vent tab as well.