UDS Temp Problem

[jennenga]

I recently built a UDS, and I am having troubles keeping the temp down. It likes to ride right about 300 degrees. That is with the 2 caps on, and ball valve closed, and Weber top vent 1/2 open. I am using the minion method, and starting out with 8-12 lit briquettes. Any ideas?

 

[travcoman45]

How tight yer lid fit?

 

[brian s]

How and where are you measuring your temps?

If all the intakes are closed and your coals don't go out then you have an air leak somewhere.

 

[jennenga]

Maverick ET 7 in middle of grate. You know TravmaA, YOU MAY HAVE A GOOD POINT! When the UDS smokes, alot of the smoke billows from under the lid's edge. I cut the top lip off with a grinder, and it isn't really square. Maybe I should try a rope gasket under the lid!

 

[jennenga]

Brian, I do not have a welder so, I used conduit nuts. I wonder if there could be enough airleak there. I hate to take it to a welder after I have already painted it. Any ideas?

 

[brian s]

I would say it may be a combination of the lid and possibly where the nipples enter the drum. I used RTV silicone to seal my air intake. The one thing I know is if you have good seals then you should be able to regulate your temps once settled with very little problems. The more air tight your UDS seals the better you can control your temps with the intake and exhaust.

 

[pandemonium]

i used conduit nipples and dont have that problem, i used reducing washers to make them more sturdy

 

[ddave]

What he said.

Definitely some leaks somewhere. I would try the rope gasket under the lid.

Good luck.

Dave