UDS build almost done

[cobbq]

I am almost completely done with my UDS build, I didn't want to deal with worrying about previous use of a found drum so I purchased a brand new steel drum from a local drum seller here in Denver. All holes are drilled the inside never had a liner it is shining new and un painted the outside is baked on black from the manufacturer. I'm thinking I don't need to do anything other than tighten everything down and maybe a quick wipe down and season, the drum place said the black is baked on and shouldn't be affected by smoking until temps over 500.
Do you think it's safe to use as is?

 

[hambone1950]

I would just wash out the inside with simple green or the like and go right at it. Grease it up and get a fire going. You got all your racks in it and your vents in , I'd say you're good to go.

 

[cobbq]

Thanks,
I have 5-3/4 holes with nipple around bottom of which 2 have ball valves the other 3 are caps, with 2 racks up top 1, is 9 inches down from top lip the top one is 3 inches down from top lip right now I'm avoiding a defusing pan above fire pit because everything I've read says thats the point of a UDS to get that distinct flavor from the drippings hitting the coals.

 

[fwismoker]

Thanks,
I have 5-3/4 holes with nipple around bottom of which 2 have ball valves the other 3 are caps, with 2 racks up top 1, is 9 inches down from top lip the top one is 3 inches down from top lip right now I'm avoiding a defusing pan above fire pit because everything I've read says thats the point of a UDS to get that distinct flavor from the drippings hitting the coals.

A good diffuser will let the drippings hit the coals along with diffusing the heat to provide more even distribution.  

Here's one of my diffusers...love it, it makes a big difference. 

P1010517.JPG

• fwismoker
• Jan 8, 2014

 

[gary s]

[h1]

Hello and welcome from East Texas. This is a great site, lots of information and great people that are willing to throw in their two cents worth on about anything.   [/h1][h1]  [/h1][h1]Gary[/h1]

 

[dirtsailor2003]

Sounds like you're ready to go! Fire that puppy up and get to Smokin!!!!

 

[bdskelly]

Cobb Welcome! Nice UDS

You will find plenty of friendly folks with great advice on this forum. Lt the search bar at the top of the page be your new friend.  There are over 1 million post on this forum.  And that a lot of powerful knowledge right at your finger tips. Or just ask! If you have not checked it out already, Give Jeff's 5 day ecourse a try.  It is free and full of great information to make you an even better smoker.

Again Welcome.

Brian