Newbie looking to build a smoker

[rickbaro]

Greetings all, I'm looking to build a side fire box smoker.  I figure the smoke box will be about 30" X 18" X 26" high.  That much I have figured out.  What I don't know is what size fire box I'd need to support that size smoke box. 

Also, how big should the inlet vent be between the two boxes.  I understand that the vent on the smoke box should be larger, should the inlets on the fire box be larger than the other two, or smaller.  Or somewhere in between?as well as the inlets on the fire box.

Is there some set of formulas or rules-of-thumb to govern the building of smokers?  Because the other questions I have are what gauge steel should the fire box be for a long term box, and what gauge is best for the smoke box?

Thanks to all for any help!

 

[fliptetlow]

This might help you a bit: 

http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t/98097/smoker-build-formulas

 

[daveomak]

Rick, morning..   Here are a few links to some very good info also.....  Cruise through it.... Any specific questions about the build, our experienced members are always willing to help you build the best smoker in your neighborhood....  

Welcome to the forum.....  Take a moment to stop into "roll call" for a proper welcome from our members....  This forum can become addictive.... sit back, hang on, and enjoy the long smokey ride....    Dave

http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/f/133/roll-call

http://www.feldoncentral.com/bbqcalculator.html

http://www.1728.org/circsect.htm

http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t/54542/building-an-italian-offset-smoker/20

http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/f/197/smoker-builds

 

[rickbaro]

Thanks guys; I got my cup of coffee and am on my way to some good Sunday morning reading!

Cheers