My First UDS Build

[mconrad9801]

I posted on roll call a while back that I was building a UDS. I got it finished just in time for the 4th of July weekend. I got it all seasoned and did some chicken breasts and some country style beef ribs for a practice run and was pleasantly surprised at how well they turned out. I got a ton of good compliments about the flavor especially on the ribs. I am currently trying to post some pics of the build from my phone (HTC Thunderbolt) I will get them up as soon as I figure this thing out! Oh a very special thanks and shout out to Cowgirl (Jeanie) for the inspiration and design help!

 

[desertlites]

Glad it worked well for u and u will find the UDS a very efficient smoker. And ya that cowgirl rocks!

 

[meateater]

Welcome to the ugly side! 

 

[mconrad9801]

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[mconrad9801]

First 3 pics are: Heavy duty expanded metal grate in the bottom, 3/4 inch brass ball valve on the bottom along with 3 other brass nipples with caps to help dial in the air flow, and a view from the top...almost ready for paint.

 

[mconrad9801]

The vents in the top didnt go quite as planned, but they work good.  I just twist the caps off to let more smke/heat out.  They really work good surprisingly.  This pic, drum is complete and ready to take apart to clean up a bit more and then paint

 

[mconrad9801]

Primed with 2000 degree engine primer then finished with high heat "Grabber Green" engine paint.  oh yeah!!

 

[mconrad9801]

Made a basket for the coals to sit in, (thanks again cowgirl)!  and finally on a test run after seasonng.  Temps stayed around 250 - 290 range.  Hit 300 a few times, but was able to get it down fairly quick.  Its quite a learning process, and it blows away the little brinkman smoke n grill i've been using, WOW!   I am doing some wings tomorrow afternoon and plan on doing some Q View pics for you all.  Thanks!

 

[SmokinAl]

Nice job! Can't wait to see your first Q.

 

[austexrod]

The Frankenstein UDS with all those bolts on top, Me likey!! Nice job
 

Made a basket for the coals to sit in, (thanks again cowgirl)!  and finally on a test run after seasonng.  Temps stayed around 250 - 290 range.  Hit 300 a few times, but was able to get it down fairly quick.  Its quite a learning process, and it blows away the little brinkman smoke n grill i've been using, WOW!   I am doing some wings tomorrow afternoon and plan on doing some Q View pics for you all.  Thanks!