Firebox Question?

[joesuits4]

I have a 15 year old Oklahoma Joe's 16" offset smoker. I noticed that the firebox door where the intake device is located, there is a 1/16" gap on the lower half of the door. I went to the local Horizon dealer and looked at the 16" and 20" Backyard smokers and they have the same gap. I keep reading that the firebox should be air tight. Does this gap serve a purpose or is it a design flaw carried over for 15 years?

Thank You!

 

[alblancher]

An airtight firebox would not burn wood.  I think the gap you see is inconsequental.  If you are concerned about it you may find a gasket in the appliance section of the box stores or I understand that they make a high temp silicone caulk.

The major adjustments to the air supply and hence the smoker temperature will be the firebox dampers.

Welcome to the forum

Al

 

[sqwib]

Ditto Al

A tight firebox with adequate intake venting will give you better control when using the intakes but if its airtight no good.

It shouldn't be a problem using splits but check it out if using lump or charcoal.

I wouldn't sweat the gap

 

[oldschoolbbq]

   Squib is right;fuel+air+heat=fire

 Sorry, it was there,I had to.....