Smoke Hollow with Side Firebox Question

Recently got a Char Griller side firebox and modded my Smoke Hollow vertical propane smoker to accept the firebox.  I started my first charcoal fire with some Cowboy lump charcoal (I now know this was a poor choice) I picked up at Lowe's.  Trying to figure out some temp control and good smoke production.  I know this will all come with trial and error, but thought I'd check around to see if anyone has recommendations.

I started my charcoal in a chimney, then dumped into fire box, let it burn for a while with intake wide open, got to 250 and stayed until I tossed on a few chunks of hickory that flamed up and sent the temps soaring over 300.  Tried to move the flaming chunks of Hickory to the side and closing the intake, but they continued to flare.

I let this burn down to about 200, and tossed on a couple more pieces of charcoal and placed a few chunks of Hickory to the side of the coals.  I've now opened the intake to try and get the temp up, I'd like to maintain 225 and have decent smoke generation.  Ultimately I'm just trying to learn this new heat/smoke source and would appreciate any suggestions.

I saw a thread or two on here before I attempted this mod but can't seem to find them now, would anyone have a link to share?