- Nov 2, 2014
- 15
- 10
Hello Everyone, it's been a while since Ive posted as life got busy. Finally have taken major steps in completing my Aaron Franklin 500gal replica trailer smoker. When I started the research on this build about 2 years ago, it was extremely difficult to get hard and fast info, numbers, measurements, etc. Since then, Aaron has published a book, filmed BBQ with Franklin and given all the info you need to replicate his original smoker and the design philosophy behind all of his cookers. My ultimate goal is to build this smoker trailer as well as a concession trailer and open 1 day a week on Saturdays for lunch until the food runs out. It's more of a hobby for me but there is some part of me that wants to sell the finished product and see where it goes. Now....on to the build!!!
Started with an old trailer that used to have an RV camper on it. I bought it as just the frame as seen below. Paid $200 for it and blew 2 tires on the way home. Kept driving and have let it sit for a year. Put new shoes on her for $550
Put new shoes on her for $550 and already looks better.
Cut, rewelded and replaced some supports to get her ready for decking. Also sanded and prepped for paint.
All painted and ready for decking
Decking complete!
Next is getting the tank on the trailer. Picked up a 2 ton engine hoist at Harbor Freight with the 20% off coupon for $192. Best money I ever spent, lol. It's going to come in very handy through this entier build.
Spent yesterday welding up the stand and attaching it to the tank. I'm sure my HOA was loving me yesterday...
Next phase is building the firebox which will consist of a 330 gallon propane tank (30" diameter) and an inner pipe that is 24" in diameter. This will give a 3" air gap around the inner pipe and provide a partially insulated firebox.
Started with an old trailer that used to have an RV camper on it. I bought it as just the frame as seen below. Paid $200 for it and blew 2 tires on the way home. Kept driving and have let it sit for a year. Put new shoes on her for $550
Put new shoes on her for $550 and already looks better.
Cut, rewelded and replaced some supports to get her ready for decking. Also sanded and prepped for paint.
All painted and ready for decking
Decking complete!
Next is getting the tank on the trailer. Picked up a 2 ton engine hoist at Harbor Freight with the 20% off coupon for $192. Best money I ever spent, lol. It's going to come in very handy through this entier build.
Spent yesterday welding up the stand and attaching it to the tank. I'm sure my HOA was loving me yesterday...
Next phase is building the firebox which will consist of a 330 gallon propane tank (30" diameter) and an inner pipe that is 24" in diameter. This will give a 3" air gap around the inner pipe and provide a partially insulated firebox.