Grilling also depends on how much you're grilling. If your cook is relatively small, the the splitter is appropriate, if not, use the full basket. Temperatures also depend on what you're grilling, but for the most part, around 400° is about right. For 90% of grilling, I use the main grate, but if I'm looking for a sear, I use the lower, or even the reversible grate. Steaks for instance, I prefer the hot and fast method, which requires a hot fire, 600°-700°, close to the fire.
Heat soaking isn't necessary, but I do like to let the grill stablize for a few minutes before cooking, this allows the grates to heat up, and let's any volitiles burn off the coal. If you're in a hurry though, you can grill as soon as you get to cook temp.