Rust on Smoker - Question from a Rookie

[Texas_Zack]

I was given a smoker from my father in law that has sat unused with no cover (although under a patio roof) for a couple of years. I’ve seen two small rust spots in the cooking chamber that concern me. I was hoping to use this in a week for a football get together I am having and don’t know if I will have time for a full on clean and restoration. I’ve attached some pics to show it’s current condition. I have committed to at least doing a deep clean on the grate if I proceed with using it for my upcoming watch party. Thanks in advance for any replies.

 

[creek bottom]

Hit it with a wire brush, wash it down, clean firebox out. Fire it up and season it with canola oil.... Should be good to go...

 

[BigW.]

I do a quick clean out of grease/ash. You can hit the rust with a wire brush or steal wool if you'd like. Can season with some cooking oil if you'd like. The grates are what touches the food. I'd be more concerned with them. You can get replacements on Amazon for most grills if needed. Good Luck!

 

[krj]

Exterior rust isn't gonna effect you using it to cook at all. Hell even interior rust, outside of the racks isn't gonna hurt anything so long as the rust isn't like falling off onto the food. I'd say give the racks a good cleaning and reseason and go to town. Like the others have suggested you could always take a wire brush to the inside and reseason it also.