Overfilled?

[Alex Enkerli]

Might have overfilled my charcoal bowl. Did a Minion method with a full bowl… and a full chimney. Several coals spilled around the bowl, into the bottom part of the smoker.

I probably shouldn't worry, but I do wonder what effect it might have. For one thing, it was a bit difficult to fit the water pan on top of those coals.
On the plus side, temperature seems stable at 225°F with bottom vents half-closed.
And it smells pretty good, already.

 

[ChuckO]

You'll be fine the more charcoal, the longer the cook. As far as the chimney goes, a dozen is more than enough to do the Minion method

 

[Alex Enkerli]

Thanks!
Thought a small amount might be fine, but since my first cook was only six hours at 225°F, thought I'd ramp up the coals. Went a bit overboard, I guess. Just hope the extra coals won't damage the smoker.

 

[Alex Enkerli]

Actually, coals were blocking the vents. Used a screwdriver to dislodge those coals and I think it'll help.