I think most folks do not use the deflector plate. I know mine has never seen the inside to my KK. Some use a layer of foil over the lower grate for low and slow, for higher cooks the double drip pan or use the stainless steel drip pan that came with the grill. I guess my point is I use everything but the heat deflector.
While we are waiting for Tony, I'll chime in, BernzOmatic TS4000 is the model I've been using for years without a speck of trouble. They probably have an updated model by now. Use the torch for a few seconds to get a little lump going then do as Dennis suggests, get out an old hair dryer to get a good spot going and you'll have the KK up to temp. in no time.
I cleaned up the last of the beets in the garden this morning and just didn't want the mess in the kitchen so they were cooked on Pebbles.
Cleaned off the outer skin and they are ready for eating or I may make Harvard Beets with them.
That is an awesome size cooker, tons of grilling area and a nice high top making pizza, bread cooks, a delight or for that matter anything that has extra height, like turkey, etc.