Getting started on mini v3

[nevillebartos]

Been using my second build for some time now and it's been pretty awesome, I built that using a 36qt pot and making a bunch of holes in the bottom with a hole saw which worked out OK.  I now have for myself a 44qt pot and intend to go with the cut out method this time around.  Two questions before I begin - how big should I make the hole, and what should I use to do it?  Figured I'd jigsaw it but have never tried cutting a circle in metal before and could use some tips, I'm not such a great jigsaw operator.

 

[JckDanls 07]

I cut my 36qt about an inch maybe an inch and a half from the outside... a found a variable speed jig saw with a fine metal cutting blade run quarter to half speed worked best... Make sure you put a lil pressure down on the saw so it doesn't jump up in the air on ya ... Drill a hole big enough inside of your drawn circle (I used a sharpie) for the blade to go in for the start of the cut... cut your way out to the drawn line and then follow the line...

 

[nevillebartos]

Thanks mate will give it a go shortly and post results, might even have the whole thing knocked up by sundown 

 

[dirtsailor2003]

As for the size, I have always left 1 1/4" of metal around the edge. To make the circle find center of your pot drill a small hole. Put a nail or other pin in the hole. Tie a string to it. Hold string on a sharpie and draw circle.

 

[nevillebartos]

All done and currently testing / seasoning, will get back with full results after a bit of use, will likely rig the cyberq up to this one for kicks so should have some temp logs for you guys as well

edit:  bang on my set 225f and steady, noticeable efficiency over the holes method but my only concern is I need the vents so far closed it's bordering putting the fuel out... working under a nice evening with ambient of 22c and zero wind, not sure how we'll go on a hot day under the sun.  Struggle to recall the old money but I cut the hole 250mm in a 340mm pot, the diffuser I am currently running is 280mm, thinking I could bump it up to a 300 to give me some more wiggle with the vents?

wsm31.jpg

• nevillebartos
• Dec 16, 2016

wsm3.jpg

• nevillebartos
• Dec 16, 2016

 

[kbuckeye]

Is the pot stainless or aluminum?

 

[nevillebartos]

Stainless pot from bayou classic, done a number of cooks now and has been going great, still need to get a charcoal ring sorted