New Build help needed

[sqwib]

Need some advice:

Pipe
What can I use for 4" diameter pipe other than black pipe?

Handle
The handle I want to mount slightly higher up on the tank because I want to put an external rack on the same height as the meat rack, and want to be able to use the external shelf while cooking, without the handle getting in the way. suggestions?


Counterweight (image not to scale)
I wanted to add a counterweight by using cable and a barbel that would hang off the back




here some progress pics, (just so you know I am really building this)


Cutting


hinges




opened up

 

[dirt guy]

1. Are you sure you need the counter weight? The lid doesn't look that heavy--I always worry that I won't get a good seal if the door opens too easily. If it ends up being very high off the ground, you may well need the counter balance.

2. If you don't like black pipe, you might be able to find some square or rectangular-shaped pipe that shouldn't be too thick to work with. Exhaust pipe from a truck supply store works well, can be had in many diameters, is light weight, and is (usually) fairly priced--muffler shops may have some pieces to sell if they put those huge pipes on diesel pickups.

3. You can mount a handle to the side that should work well--especially if a counter weight is used. It won't take much effort to open the lid. If you could find a shifting lever from a manual transmission, you can cut it to length and bend it to fit your placement. Leave the shifter knob in place for a fun conversation piece.

Good luck with the build--you've got a great start.

 

[sqwib]

Yeah I would like to add a counterweight because when it gets a little past halfway, it really slams shut, fraid it might slip out of my greasy hands one day doing ribs, (because I would be sampling stuff), and worried in coming down on unawre fingers...damn things always getting in the way.

I just want the counterweight to kewep the door from slamming closed.

this is a perfect size but need a straight one
http://www.anythingtruck.com/Merchan...Code=45-824716

 

[dirt guy]

>>this is a perfect size but need a straight one

I'm sure you can find a straight chrome stack. If it weren't chromed, you could buy it too long and cut the bend off.

 

[rambler]

instead of black pipe for exhaust why don't you use pipe like is used for venting a hot water tank? Light weight and economical and you can buy a cap to fit it so water doesn't get in when not in use.

 

[rambler]

For a counter weight you could weld a piece to the lid that would double for a counter weight and a stop for the lid so it does not open too far. More of a counter-lever than a weight.

 

[thunderdome]

a tractor weight (or any weight) welded to the back of lid works great for a counter weight. It wouldnt require any pulley/cords either

 

[chef jeff tx]

What about splitting the door into 2 smaller ones so you don't have to worry about the weight and also won't lose as much heat & smoke when you open it?

 

[sqwib]

I don't want to split the door, but will make a counterweight, I want it so it needs to be pulled down to shut.
My brother got hold of Sched 40 black pipe 4' so I am good to go.Its a bit heavy but will weld nicely.

 

[sqwib]

Thunderdome what is the Diameter of your build?

 

[beer-b-q]

Make you a flange for your exhaust out of black pipe and then get a chrome truck exhaust with a turned end that will fit over the flange and clamp it down. That way if you need to replace the exhaust for any reason you still have your mounting flange in place for the new exhaust...