Converting Masterbuilt Pro Smoker from propane to Natural Gas

[B00b001357]

So I was thinking of converting my new smoker to natural gas. It is 15,400 BTU. Based on a standard chart the natural gas orifice should be 48. A few questions that I hope someone here can answer. Masterbuilt refuses to help. I am assuming this is strictly a legal disclaimer. I figure the safest way to do it is buy a new orifice and not drill out the old one. Has anyone done this and does it work ok? Thank you all. I appreciate any and all suggestions.

 

[daveomak]

If you have number drills, or can get them, I would start with a lower BTU output drill... Propane smokers generally put out WAAAAY too many BTU's to make a decent smoker.....
Try the orifice as is... Some air adjustment will be necessary to get a good flame...
5-6,200 BTU's should be good... Run it on full high heat and see what it gets you... Run it on low heat and see if it will run at 100-125F... You will need to plug some holes in the burner to get a flame that won't flame out... Try plugging 1/2 the holes... You will get a higher flame that "shouldn't" flame out... Maybe plug a few more holes until you get a good flame only using 1/4 - 1/3 the burner holes.... AND.... A needle valve will be a big help in controlling fuel flow.....