Rookie ?'s

[coachgt]

I finally got around to "preseasoning" my new MES 30 and want to put it to use soon. I was able to get pretty good smoke using the chips for the preseason, but I'd prefer to use pellets going forward. I've tried using the search feature and had little luck answering my question so here goes....

I've bought the AMNPS, my question is where do most people put it inside the smoker? If I'm smoking a chicken and possibly some stuffed peppers how much pellets do you recommend using? I'd think filling it would be overkill, but I may be wrong.

Also, looking for suggestions on a reasonably priced digital meat thermometer. I don't trust the one that's built into the smoker.

Any help/feedback is greatly appreciated. I'll keep everyone updated once I put it to use.

 

[ghostguy6]

Where the AMNPS fits best depends on which model of MES you have. There is a thread somewhere that shows all the locations but the search keeps timing out for me right now. I want to say Bearcarver started it but I cant be sure.

Personally I would only fill 1 row about 2/3 full since your chicken shouldn't take more than a few hours to cook. This would depend on your personal taste though as to the level of smoke you want.

The ThermoPro thermometers are pretty good on price and quality. If you want to test your temperature probe in your Mes, just dip it in some ice water and some boiling water, if the temp's are correct just use that for the time being.

 

[daveomak]

1 full row is about 3 1/2 hours... For most stuff, I like 1 1/2 rows.. I don't like too much smoke flavor... I want the food flavor and don't want it overpowered..

 

[Geebs]

I also second the Thermopro, inexpensive and mine has been running great for 4+ years. I have the dual sensor one to either monitor the internal chamber or a second piece of meat.

 

[gmc2003]

Ghost is correct. Search bearcarver and amnps. He is the all knowing about MES smoker(I believe he was one of the original tester's when it came out). As far as how many pellets are needed. I would fill at least two rows. You can always snuff it out when your done.

Chris

 

[johnmeyer]

Here is one of Bear's posts that may be helpful:

Masterbuilt Smokers (Bear’s Thoughts & Findings) Masterbuilt Smokers (Bear’s Thoughts & Findings)

 

[SonnyE]

I finally got around to "preseasoning" my new MES 30 and want to put it to use soon. I was able to get pretty good smoke using the chips for the preseason, but I'd prefer to use pellets going forward. I've tried using the search feature and had little luck answering my question so here goes....

I've bought the AMNPS, my question is where do most people put it inside the smoker? If I'm smoking a chicken and possibly some stuffed peppers how much pellets do you recommend using? I'd think filling it would be overkill, but I may be wrong.

Also, looking for suggestions on a reasonably priced digital meat thermometer. I don't trust the one that's built into the smoker.

Any help/feedback is greatly appreciated. I'll keep everyone updated once I put it to use.

I always put my AMNPS inside my Mod. ;) (I like the 8' of aluminum dryer hose to cool the moisture and creosote out of the smoke.)
Mine, plumb full, ran 11 hours. So I "Rule of Thumb" 4 hours a row. (Filled level)
I wanted a 6 hour smoke, did 1 1/2 rows, and got a full 6 hours.
But every-bodies mileage will vary.

Yesterday I ordered a TempuraturePro TP-08 from the Amazon site, added Dillon's code for a 20% discount ( IF5RBOKA ) and today got a text it would be delivered today.
The TP-08 does what I want out of a temperature device, Chamber, Meat, and Range (300'). But there are others.

Enjoy your MES 30!