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IMHO - If it was me, I would put grates in the firebox. Running high temps in the cooking chamber will ruin the seasoning of the firebox and that seasoning and buildup is what keeps it from leaking.
- Jason
Welcome to SMF from North Texas! Great looking rig!
I grew up in Minnesota, then spent 13 years in Wisconsin (Cedarburg) before moving to Texas 11 years ago.
- Jason
For what it is worth, I bump the cook temp from 250 up to 280-290 after wrapping (when I wrap). I prefer a slower cook without wrapping, but many times, time is not on my side.
- Jason