I don't want to blow myself up.

[Mffl84]

Howdy all, Jared here. I'm a newbie to the site, and still pretty new to smoking. I got my first smoker for Christmas this past year (Smokevault 18).

I have done a ton on research on mods and ways to make it run with optimal efficiency, and I know that replacing the regulator with a needle valve is a must, especially if lower temps are desired. Here's my concern; I have seen in many posts on this site, and others, that this setup is a good option. I went to Lowes today to pick one up, and I talked myself out of it because on the packaging, and on Amazon, it says DO NOT USE WITH GAS GRILLS.

I really don't want to blow myself up...and maybe my ignorance in the realm of propane is getting the best of me and it isn't a big deal. I'm just not sure why they would specifically say to not use it will gas grills if there wasn't significant risk.

Are there any that have used this regulator with gas that could shed some light? Is it safe to use that regulator, or is there a better option? Thanks for the help!

 

[indaswamp]

1-10psi is NOT low pressure. Most propane smokers use low pressure which is less than 0.5psi. Specifically it is 11" of water column, roughly 0.39psi. The orifice used in the burner is calibrated for this pressure of gas delivery.

Unless your smoker specifically states that it uses high pressure, then you can swap them out.

All you really need is to buy a high quality needle valve, like this one:

"950-BRF-MB - Precision machined brass Gas Needle Valve for fine adjustment of gas flow, 1/4" female NPT x 3/8" male Gas Flare."
https://tejassmokers.com/Brass-Fittings-Valves/22#104NV077

It's 25 bucks, but the precision control you will have is priceless.


You could also install a gas auto shut off valve with either a pilot/thermocouple OR an ultraviolet sensor. This will shut the gs flow off should the burner blow out....

 

[Mffl84]

Went ahead and bought the regulator I linked after talking to a buddy of mine. It's working like a champ! I was able to hold a temp of 110, and been sitting pretty at 180 for a while now smoking these sausages!

 

[SmokinAl]

Glad you got it figured out, cause the sausages are looking real good!
Al

 

[gmc2003]

Well you posted pics of the sausage, so I guess your still here. Those are some mighty fine looking sausages. Someday I'll find the time and patience to get into sausage and stick smoking.

Chris

 

[indaswamp]

To each his own I guess. Glad it's working for you.

https://www.leaf.tv/articles/differences-between-low-high-pressure-propane-burners/