Some random questions

[grupe]

I am getting started on my build. My dad had an old IH fridge so that part was free. I purchased a 4X8 sheet of 16 gauge today and tore off the plastic door piece. I am really on a budget as the wife got a "new to us" car last weekend and I have been informed that we can't spend money for a while....

So...

1. Do you really need to replace the insulation that came stock in the fridge? It wouldn't be a big deal to replace it later, but I don't want to mess up even a dollar of meet over $42 of insulation

2. The holes on the inside of the fridge from the old shelf rack holders, can I just close them with high temp silicon? I have a welder, but it isn't the best and I know I can't fill the holes with it.

Input is desired.

-Graham

 

[foxriversmokin]

grupe,

How old is the fridge?

1. Maybe post a pic of the fridge, and exposed insulation, with the door trim removed.

1.  In areas where there were multiple holes clustered, I cut a rectangle/square of the sheet metal, put a bead of hi-temp silicone around the perimeter and riveted it over the holes.  Solo holes I just filled with the silicone as you noted.

You can see what I did here for replacing the trim with sheet metal.

http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t/123804/coronad-freezer-smoker-build

 

[grupe]

FoxRiverSmokin,

1. Pictures are included below

2. I actually have spent a lot of time looking at your built before getting started and think you did a great job. What did you do to keep the door closed?

8.jpg

• grupe
• Nov 30, 2012

9.jpg

• grupe
• Nov 30, 2012

 

[foxriversmokin]

hey grupe,

There's insulation between the inner and outer shell of the freezer body too, so it'd be a lot more than just replacing what's in the door...that being said, it's an old freezer and that insulation should be fine for smoking (caveat being, research yourself and don't take my word for it. LOL).  I'd take a torch to it.  Looks like the same old insulation in my freezer.

I bought a DE-STA-CO pull-action latch clamp, but I apparently didn't measure well and got one to small.  I haven't ordered a new one yet.  For a temporary solution, I just bought a couple 'screen door' pin and loop latches.  It works, but will be upgrading...spent too much time and money on the rest to have those on there!  haha

http://www.destaco.com/pull-action-latch-clamps.html

Have any updates?

 

[mossymo]

I have done a couple of fridge/smoker mods and in neither of them did I remove the factory insulation. In each case I held a torch to it and if it didn't ignite I just left it.

High temp silicon works great for sealing up holes, loose fitting seams and using as a gasket or to adhere door gasket.

On the first fridge/smoker mod I did I used a paddle lock hasp to latch the door. On the second one I am using rubber snowmobile hood latches; both ways have worked well.

I am looking forward to watching your build!

 

[foxriversmokin]

"[color= rgb(24, 24, 24)]rubber snowmobile hood latches" [/color]
 

i REALLY Like that idea, Mossy!!  Out to the garage to check out the sled...

 

[foxriversmokin]

Man, that's a great idea.  Did the latches come as a pair, both the strap and post?

 

[mossymo]

I purchased the latches off eBay, 3 sets that came with both the strap and post. I think 2 latches would have been enough but the fridge was a large stainless commercial fridge and felt I better put 3 on it.

IMG_6768.JPG

• mossymo
• Dec 7, 2012

 

[grupe]

Here is the post on my build: http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t/131929/52-ih-fridge-build-low-cost-tools

Thanks for all the input guys.