First Smoke using both grates. .. Questions

[John_H]

This weekend I'm doing an overnight to cook 4 butts. This is only the third time I've used the smoker and I have never used the bottom rack. Here are my questions:

1) Do the racks cook at different temps? If so, Do I have to rotate the meat during the cook?

2) I'd like to to have the butts for lunch on Sunday. I was planning on putting the butts (7.5 lbs each) on the grill about 5 or 6pm on Saturday. Is this enough time?

3) The temp will be in the mid 20s over night with winds 10-15 from the north. The grill will be slightly sheltered as its on a concrete covered porch. Are there any adjustments that I need to make for the temp or wind?

4) With more meat does it take longer to cook or come to temp?

Any and all comments are welcome. Thanks for all your help.

John

 

[MKEvenson]

John, at 1.5 hrs /lb expect about 11 hrs cooking time but that can vary. Total cooking time won't be increased by having 4 butts but fuel consumption will. If you put the meat on before you reach target temp then yes it will take longer to get there. You have a larger heat sink with that much meat. Under those wind conditions I would make a wind break. If it were me I would check evry 3-4 hrs for fuel consumption, but then I am kinda nervous on overnight cooks anyway. The butts should do fine on top or bottom grate as they tolerate different temps well. Bottom will be a little hotter.
I am sure you will get more advice from others shortly.

Happy Smokin'

Mark

 

[TravisH]

1) Yes. No. Doesn't make much difference with Butt.

2) Should be. I'd recommend 250º~275º.

3) A wind break would be recommended. Make sure temps are stable before going to bed.

4) It will take longer to come up to temp and burn more fuel to maintain temp but cook time won't vary much.


Gee, a "concrete covered porch"? I wouldn't want to be standing underneath *that* in a high wind! Must have some massive supports, eh?