Help with temperature

[blumax]

I bought a smoker 5-6 years ago from Coscto.  It is a Grand Cafe vertical water smoker with 4 racks and 4 doors.  I converted it to NG and have used it and loved it.  My only problem is that I can't get the temperature below 220, even set on the lowest flame setting.  I live in an area than  can get very hot in the summertime, but even in the winter I struggle with the temps.

Any ideas for a "newbie" to the forum?

 

[forluvofsmoke]

I'm not familiar with the smoker, but if it has side intake air vents, you can open them to reduce chamber temps. Depending on the burner control valve, with some, you can turn the valve towards the off position (may have to push the dial in to disengage the lock), and slowly bump it back until you see the flame diminish somewhat. If neither of those can be done successfully, then go to the following...needle valve mod:

http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/ne...ction=disp&advanced=1&byuser=&containingforum[]=109&newer=1&numupdates=&order=descending&replycompare=gt&sdate=0&search=needle+valve+mod&sort=relevance&titleonly=1&type=35

I haven't needed to do that mod on any of my LPG smokers, but many have...generally with propane, but the principle is the same for NG.

BTW, please stop by the ROLL CALL FORUM and introduce yourself and tell us a little about your cooking experience, so we can better help you in the future, and to properly welcome you to the SMF family.

Eric

 

[fwismoker]

220 seems like a good low temp...the only thing i'll cook at 220-225 are ribs and everything else is higher.   You could make sure the smoker is in the shade that might help.   BTW what is the thermometer that you are using because many bi metal gauges are junk and inaccurate. 

 

[seenred]

Hi Blumax.

I'll X2 what Eric said.  If you are unable to achieve the lower temps you want with air flow, a needle valve mod may be your answer.

BTW, welcome to the forums!

Red