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wanttobewelder

Newbie
Original poster
Oct 12, 2025
1
0
I am building my first reverse-flow smoker. I have watched numerous videos. As still have many questions. I have made my hole for the firebox and created the baffle plate using pieces, so I can modify it if needed. Can I paint under the baffle to help prevent it from rusting out? Should I, and the next major piece will be a smoke stack. The problem is, I wanted to build a warmer box on top of my firebox. I am also building the trailer as I go. And suggestions. I will add some pics of the build and my over-the-top grill I built last year.
tank on trailer.jpg
Fire Box Cut out.jpg
Bottom.jpg
Baffle Plate.jpg
top cooking grate completed.jpg
 

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Welcome to SMF. I would not concerned with painting the baffle plate. Paint is not recommended for any inside surface of a smoker. Don't need to risk harmful chemicals.
If you want to try a warmer on top of your firebox take a look at some Langs for ideas.
That oil tank you have is quite large for cooking volume. You may want to shorten it or make a warmer out of the top third.
Take a look at this calculator. This was done by Dave [RIP] and will get you in the ballpark.
You can also Google "Feldon BBQ

Have fun!
RG

 
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I am building my first reverse-flow smoker. I have watched numerous videos. As still have many questions. I have made my hole for the firebox and created the baffle plate using pieces, so I can modify it if needed. Can I paint under the baffle to help prevent it from rusting out? Should I, and the next major piece will be a smoke stack. The problem is, I wanted to build a warmer box on top of my firebox. I am also building the trailer as I go. And suggestions. I will add some pics of the build and my over-the-top grill I built last year. View attachment 726807View attachment 726808View attachment 726810View attachment 726811View attachment 726806
I am building my first reverse-flow smoker. I have watched numerous videos. As still have many questions. I have made my hole for the firebox and created the baffle plate using pieces, so I can modify it if needed. Can I paint under the baffle to help prevent it from rusting out? Should I, and the next major piece will be a smoke stack. The problem is, I wanted to build a warmer box on top of my firebox. I am also building the trailer as I go. And suggestions. I will add some pics of the build and my over-the-top grill I built last year. View attachment 726807View attachment 726808View attachment 726810View attachment 726811View attachment 726806
WeldingMan! Hello. I don’t have any informed suggestions (not being a welder or steel fabricator) but I do have an M1 Grills reverse flow smoker and cannot say enough good things about it, aside from its $3000 cost. Designing and fabricating your own smoker sounds like a fulfilling endeavor and I wish you luck and satisfaction from undertaking it. On the other hand, the folks over at M1 Grills have done a lot of R&D and many revisions on their design and I can attest to its quality build and flexibility for hot or low and slow smoking. Full disclosure: I have absolutely no affiliation with M1 Grills. I am just a satisfied customer.

Enjoy your project! Best, from Apopka, Florida.
 
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