Need advice 18.5" WSM and baby backs

[smokininidaho]

I'm gonna fire up my new (used) WSM tomorrow. 2 racks of baby backs. I'll be using royal oak lump. Will use the minion method, how much charcoal should I use and what settings on the bottom vents, figuring 5-6 hour cook.

Thanks for any advice.

 

[SmokinAl]

About 1/2 ring should be plenty. If there is still charcoal left at the end then just shut all the vents & the fire will go out & you can use what's left next smoke. 

Start the fire with all the vents open 100 %, when the temp gets around 180 start shutting the bottom vents down, at 200  shut 2 of the vents & leave the 3rd one open about half way. When you hit 215-220 shut the 3rd vent down to about 1/4 open. As you approach 225 you may have to open or close the 3rd vent to get the temp to stabilize. Usually it will hold a steady 225 with the lid vent open 100%, 2 bottom vents shut & the 3rd one just cracked open. Good luck.

 

[smokininidaho]

Thanks Al, I will give that a shot.

 

[bama bbq]

It is amazing how these WSM(s) will sit rock steady at temp with almost no vent.