R. Hutchins
TVWBB Fan
Has anyone done a post (if so, I can't find it) on techniques for controlling temp in a Smoker Joe?
I posted my build (SJS and Imusa) in the mega-thread but thought that this would be the best place to post my question about controlling temps. I'm having trouble keeping temps at smoking level. I'm certain that I have used too much charcoal just as I'm certain that I've used too little. I've tried a few hot coals in Minion arrangement in a full basket of unlit.
Most of the time my temps soar up to about 400*.
I tried using only 10 briquettes but that didn't last long enough. Temps went above 250* for awhile then fell below 200*.
I've tried leaving the top vents wide open and closing down the bottom vents. This has only a marginal effect. I tried letting the coals burn down for an hour+ but when I put the meat on and the lid, temps spiked.
Anybody perfected this art yet that is willing to share "trade" secrets?
I posted my build (SJS and Imusa) in the mega-thread but thought that this would be the best place to post my question about controlling temps. I'm having trouble keeping temps at smoking level. I'm certain that I have used too much charcoal just as I'm certain that I've used too little. I've tried a few hot coals in Minion arrangement in a full basket of unlit.
Most of the time my temps soar up to about 400*.
I tried using only 10 briquettes but that didn't last long enough. Temps went above 250* for awhile then fell below 200*.
I've tried leaving the top vents wide open and closing down the bottom vents. This has only a marginal effect. I tried letting the coals burn down for an hour+ but when I put the meat on and the lid, temps spiked.
Anybody perfected this art yet that is willing to share "trade" secrets?