Hi everyone, is my fire box too big?

[jpwestpoint]

Hi everyone. This is my second smoker build. I have the cook chamber pretty much ready to go. The fire box is constructed also but it looks way too big. Here are the dimensions....

cook chamber, ( round propane tank) 30" in diameter, 96" long.
fire box, 32" wide, 30" deep, and 31" tall.

The way I have the firebox constructed it would be easier for me to take some off the height than the sides since I already have the door opening cut and door attached. 

Please get back to me as soon as possible. I am ready to get this baby done. lol

Thank you. Joe.
 

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[fatbastard09]

I'd say you have it just right.  Using the tank calculator for a horizontal capsule on http://www.calculatorsoup.com/calculators/construction/tank.php I am showing your tank volume around 350 gallons, or 80850 cubic inches.  Using Dave's 0.33 X tank volume you end up with a target of 26,681 cubic inches for your FB.  Your dimensions on the FB you have show 29,760 cubic inches, a 111.5% differential.  Looks right on to me.  My understanding is a little bigger is better on FB size.  I know Feldon's isn't recommended by folks on here but you would be 191% on that, so that is good.

FYI, don't rely on me, I just learned how to use the calculators in the last few weeks! Hopefully you will get a few more bites on this.

FB

 

[daveomak]

 

[randya]

I like it... I do the same, start with smoker and determine what FB size I want to build to make it look good. Then follow the calculator to figure the intake and chamber opening.  I use what chimney size I have to keep it from being so tall.

 Please share pictures too.