Toggle sidebar

Tips for my Mini-WSM build

  • Some of the links on this forum allow SMF, at no cost to you, to earn a small commission when you click through and make a purchase. Let me know if you have any questions about this.
Remove the Ads for LIFE - 50% Off!
SMF is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
dukeburger

dukeburger

Master of the Pit
Original poster
OTBS Member
Oct 4, 2009
1,919
704
Sylvan Lake, Alberta
Hey fellas,

Since I've been unable to find the proper pots required for a more common mini-WSM build, and having the tools and materials available to me from working in a metal fabrication shop, I've decided to build one out of 1/8" thick aluminum sheet that I will roll to the required diameters.

I have my 18" WSM that I use for most of my home smokes, so this will be primarily used for camping trips, picnics and other trips.

I'll be rolling the aluminum sheet out to a 13 3/4" - 13 7/8" bottom diameter and a 14 1/4" - 14 1/2" top diameter with the seam being fully TIG welded. I'll be making some handles out of aluminum round bar and my charcoal ring will be expanded metal. I don't plan on installing a dial thermometer as I will likely be using my MAV733 probes every smoke. (I don't even look at the dial on my WSM anymore)

Given the materials required, I can more than likely get this done under $15 and a few extra hours in the shop.

A couple questions I have are;

What height do you guys recommend for my mid-section ring? I am thinking 12" with the rack installed 6" from the top...This will be a single rack and need enough room for a Boston Butt.

For the diffuser, how well does a 12" terra cotta saucer work?

Should I be using stainless steel hardware?

Any tips are greatly appreciated!

Thanks.
 
Last edited:
Your grate heigh is good.

I only use the steamer insert for a diffuser. Would be easy for you to make.

I would use ss hardware just to be safe.
 
I like the natural way of cooking with juices dripping in the coals so I didn't do the saucer, i used the steamer that came with the pot. I know you won't have that but you can make one.

I don't need a heat sink because i use a reflectix sleeve when its cold or crappy....i keep rock solid temps,cooke 9 hours 275, and can cook low or really high. My advice for mini builds is k.i.s.s .... keep it simple.
 
Last edited:
These guys Adam & Keith as well as Case helped me with my mini & it works great, they'll steer ya right ! Thumbs Up I'll only add one thing is the steamer insert as a diffuser works awesome for me !
 
No need for a therm if you have a remote. I just ordered the therm grommets that weber uses in the new WSM's. It is nice having the lower rack for making smoker roasted veggies or smokey au jus when smoking roasts. I too pretty much only use the steamer insert but I do like to use a diffuser for indirect smokes or when I load two pork butts at a time. I use a 8"x9"X1" chunk of granite wrapped in foil. Since you're taking the time to fabricate take a look at my mini-Za thread. Always fun making pizza in the woods!
 
I suppose I could just cut a 9" circle out of 1/2" or 3/4" steel plate to use as a diffuser and wrap it up in heavy duty foil...
icon_idea.gif

dirtsailor2003 said:
 Since you're taking the time to fabricate take a look at my mini-Za thread. Always fun making pizza in the woods!
Click to expand...
I'll be doing a search. I need to see this!
 
DukeBurger said:
I suppose I could just cut a 9" circle out of 1/2" or 3/4" steel plate to use as a diffuser and wrap it up in heavy duty foil...:icon_idea:


I'll be doing a search. I need to see this!
Click to expand...

Yes that would work. The mini-AZ is the ultimate mini camp smoker. Smoke a tri tip for the adults crank it up for pizza for the kids!
 
Another mini! Woohoo!
I use a 10 1/2" fry pan without handle for my diffuser. It's the exact size as the charcoal basket. It heats quickly and holds heat well. Won't split like the terra cotta either.
 
I use disposable alluminum foil pie plates for my diffuser. Simply fill them with a little playground sand or water.  Then toss them in the trash  after the smoke for easy clean up.  Tried the terra cotta thing for a while.  But I'm into easy cleanup 

Brian
 
So, 10" diameter for the diffuser? Should my charcoal ring be the same diameter?

Got the aluminum cut today, I'll be rolling it tomorrow hopefully.
 
I didn't cut the bottom out of my pot. I have several holes drilled so I am not using a charcoal ring .. But I have about 3 1/2 inch clearance ..
 
DukeBurger said:
I might wait on cutting the expanded for my charcoal ring until I know what my clearance is height-wise....:33:
Click to expand...

3 1/4" is a safe number that works great with a pot that just has the holes drilled in the bottom or the whole bottom cut out. Heading out to weld up another in a few minutes for my newest mini!
 
Last edited:
You must log in or register to reply here.
SmokingMeatForums.com is reader supported and as an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases.

Similar threads

I
Name my smoker build.
Replies
35
Views
1K
General Discussion
irvin78787884
I
KCinNE
Another Fridge build
Replies
18
Views
1K
Fridge/Freezer Builds
KCinNE
KCinNE
crippledcracker
WSM 10
Replies
31
Views
2K
Mini-WSM
DRKsmoking
DRKsmoking
T
Starting My First Build
Replies
6
Views
460
Smoker Builds
TruckSt4tus
T
C
WSM temp management
Replies
5
Views
650
Charcoal Smokers
CelticT12
C
JJLawn
My first time using my new used wsm 18 inch.
Replies
4
Views
462
Charcoal Smokers
Colin1230
Colin1230
fxsales1959
drip pan for rib roast in WSM. or not?
Replies
9
Views
426
Blowing Smoke Around the Smoker.
HushyQ
H
I
Exhaust for my reverse flow build question.
Replies
3
Views
966
Other Builds
irvin78787884
I

Latest posts

Hot Threads

Top Bottom
Back
Clicky