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400? I would say that was the problem. You'll need to learn how to keep it running between 200 and 250 for smoking meat, but you can go higher for poultry. Also, stay away from smoking with white smoke, and too much wood at once will give you that. That would explain the "black and bitter" in my...
I agree wholeheartedly with Bear and Al, they gave you excellent advice. I wouldn't throw a questionable piece of meat on a new smoker and then leave. And as a side note, I've been a MOPAR parts manager at new car dealerships since 1985.
Just an opinion here...evoo, salt, pepper, and garlic powder is simple but good, or, McCormicks make a great montreal seasoning for chicken which is pretty good too. Most woods work for poultry, I usually use apple chunks.
Butts and briskets can be very stubborn, not always, but sometimes. I run a little higher with my stick burner for this reason, usually around 250-275.
Hope it came out okay for ya!
Wow, I missed this one until now. What can I say that hasn't been said? Great job on the kitchen and beef Bear! Congratulations to you and your family.