New to this

[dydrmrsprtfish]

I am new to this.  A couple weeks ago bought a cheap brinkmann barrel charcoal smoker.  I have a problem with it getting too hot (400-450  degrees in the very beginning) and notice when I close the smoke stack the temp doesn't really go down like I think it should.  Is there any modifications I can do to make it work properly?  Below is the picture of it.  Not sure if anyone is familiar with this type.  Maybe I need to seal it better around the sides (smoke does come out the sides) or down below around the ash tray?

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[jarjarchef]

Never used that smoker before. I am sure someone will join that has, but here are a couple things I would look at.

Closing the top damper to the stack will hold the heat in. It also will mess with the air flow. Notice when you close it the smoke starts to pour out the sides or anywhere it can find a way out. Most will just leave it wide open.

To adjust the burn/heat most use the air intake adjustment. more air = hotter fire = hotter cook chamber

Try using less charcoal and setting it up in a modified Minion Method. (you light some coal and then set them next to some unlit, so over time the lit coal will light the unlit as it burns. Longer burn with less fuss.

I would try putting foil around the lid to seal it better. See if that helps before spending the money or time for a more permanent solution.

Those are a couple things to try, but practice practice practice and keep notes of what you do and how things changed.

Jeramy

 

[daveomak]

dy, morning...  When using a smoker such as you have, closing the air intake and leaving the exhaust wide open, is the way to adjust the heat output to the smoking chamber...  Closing the air intake should put out the fire..  If not, you have to seal up the air leaks...  a small air leak in the firebox is all it takes to have the heat run out of control....  Dave

 

[dydrmrsprtfish]

Thank you for your replies.  Im going to be using the smoker again next weekend and will try them out.