I learned early on my 36 that high heat is only good for burgers and steak. It was just too hot for most things. I picked up a 17 on clearance. Do you have a link for the hose you bought for the big tank?
Also, I actually prefer using a stiff putty knife for cooking. I feel like I have better control. It is the same knife I use to scrape the grill when I am done. They are fun to cook on