GMG surface temp variances

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johnnyb99

Fire Starter
Original poster
Jan 18, 2014
61
18
South Dakota
I'm a new owner of a GMG Daniel Boone. Cooking two 8lb pork shoulders today. I decided to check grill temps with an independent thermomer. Using an Ivation IVA-WLTHERM. I'm getting some wierd reading and was hoping for some help. I have the gmg set at 225. The Ivation reads 214 when i set it on the left side near the gmg probe, but reads much higher everywhere else. Around 240 to 245 in the middle and the right side. The ride side temp also seemed to swing alot more 235 to 245. I have the probe stuck thru a small potato.
 
You can do allot to change the temperature balance by moving the heat shield toward the hot side. It is a trial and error thing, and each grill is a little different. By moving the heat shield it moves the flow of air to one side or another. Moving the shield(even 1/2 at a time) can really make a difference. Once you find your magic spot try to remember or mark the shield and the belly of the grill for future reference.

I noticed that installing a downdraft helped quite a bit as well.

My temperatures are usually off when comparing the set temp to the temps on my FireBoard thermometer. But you know what, I set accordingly and move along. I dont worry to much about exact temps, but I watch and try to avoid huge spikes. We are cooking meat not landing an aircraft with no running gear, lives are not in danger! I crack another beer and enjoy my hobby.
 
Great. Thanks for the info. Is there a link for a "how to" on the downdraft? Hopefully its not too difficult for someone like me with zero ability to build things.
 
Great. Thanks for the info. Is there a link for a "how to" on the downdraft? Hopefully its not too difficult for someone like me with zero ability to build things.

I recommend spending the money and buying one from dongodkesdowndraft.com. I have had good luck with mine, and it was a 3 bolt install. Saves on pellets and keeps the heat low and flowing at grate level. 50 bucks well spent, will save itself in pellet use reduction pretty quick.
 
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