Space between tuning plates and lower rack

[lakewino69]

I am making progress on building trailer mount smoker, and need some advice. Still haven't quite decided, but think I'm leaning toward hybrid design. Either way, i need to figure out the best spacing between tuning plate/baffle and the lower rack. I have read everything from 2" to 10". I'm hoping to post some pics today, if this sorry ISP cooperates. Thanks for any suggestions

 

[pineywoods]

My baffle/plate is angled downward a bit from both sides but my bottom grate sits right on it the grate is 1x1 square tubing with the expanded metal mounted to the top side

 

[jamesb]

As much distance as you can get and still have decent airflow below the plate. Too close the the bottom rack and you going to get a lot of radiant heat from the plate and will need to rotate the meat. My reverse flow pit has about 6" between plate and grate and I wish there was a little more distance.

 

[eaglewing]

I have to agree with James here on the radiant heat thing...
I have that problem with my horizontal smoker but I don't have the option of making the distance any more than it is...