New build - fire dies from ash

[IASteve]

Built a mini WSM from an old SJ I had laying around. It does a good job, but the fire dies in 8-10 hours by getting snuffed out by the ash. I have built up the coal grate using expanded metal and did the canned chicken tin over the bottom grate, but it eventually dies out before a butt or brisket is done.

Short of dumping the ash mid-cook, what are you guys doing to keep a longer cook going?

 

[chopsaw]

What charcoal are you using ?

 

[IASteve]

Regular Kingsford briquettes.

 

[pc farmer]

Add vents like a gold Joe has. Mine never gets snuffed out.

 

[noboundaries]

I know I'm sounding like a broken record, but pick up a bag of RO Ridge briquettes (or Embers at HD, same stuff). I found that the KBB wasn't falling through the grate, even when stirred. The KBB ash was fluffy and soft. It just sat there and swallowed whatever briquettes I added.

RO Ridge is a grittier ash, heavier too. Stir it and it will fall through the grate. Plus it holds heat. For $4-6 it is worth a try.