Thank you, Rickeylee you covered the importance of cleaning much better than I did. You are right, I have eaten Q that had that bitter taste and made your tongue numb, after about one bite that was it for me. I have a friend that says that he never cleans his smoker, because that is what gives His Q the flavor, needless to say I would never eat anything he smokes,I hope he or someone he cooks for doesn't have to make a trip to the emergency room.
I smoked Ribs last night on my small smoker, as soon as it warms up I'll be out there cleaning it up for next time. Thanks again for your input on cleaning. I hope everyone reads these articles about cleaning, I think it is so important, for health reasons and making good/great BBQ every time,
Gary S.