My understanding is that the “Snake method” is primarily designed for kettle use as well.
If you want to use it in a WSM you might need to increase BOTH height and breadth of the snake, purely conjecture from me. My grill pal from the UK, turned me on to the “Sidewinder Minion” method which he accredited to the esteemed Enrico
Brandizzi (from this forum) which, I have used with considerable success for several years.
So, that being said, it’s all about learning what works better (not always best) for YOU!
If you really like the “snake” add one briquette in each layer (height and width) and try again. Of course if that doesn’t get you desired temperature, try another ignition design, I’ve only really had an under performing execution of the Sidewinder, and that was through under powered ignition point, my own fault.
The ribs were still mighty good, just a little later than anticipated!