i did the same conversion as bobby. I used 1X3's and attached to the lid using aluminum angle iron attached by pop rivets and wood screws along the front and the back. holding on like a champ. Even with the 1X3's the lid won't stay up by itself. Although I do have 2 big ceramic tap handles, but...
There are people that feel either way. Many have dodged a bullet without boiling. My first kit, I boiled my top off water. All my others, I haven't. You have to weigh the odds my friend.