Why a reverse flow?

[victor1800]

Hi this is my first post here, and I was wondering why build a reverse flow with side fire box whats the benefit?  I was thinking of building the 275 oil tank I have with the firetray lengthwise  in bottom of tank, baffle above maybe put a water bowl/tank on baffle.  It seems that it would be a little easier to mount on a trailor. The only problem I can think of is it might take a little space from the cooking area. Also would probly be a pain to clean out ashes. Any input with this? Also I almost forgot to ask is I plan on cutting 2 doors that swing out, should I worry about the the doors popping out on the curved areas of the tank? If so how do I prevent this.

 

[daveomak]

Reverse flow utilizes a majority of the heat because it is twice through the smoker...  More efficient....  temps fairly uniform across the cooking surface...

The detached firebox allows for heat control.....   Fire directly inside the smoker, not so much heat control..  

Dave 

 

[victor1800]

Ok the heat control and distributing makes sense to me would be hard to control in the tank, any thoughts on whether my doors might bend out or not when I cut them?  Thanks

 

[mike johnson]

 
Reverse flow utilizes a majority of the heat because it is twice through the smoker...  More efficient....  temps fairly uniform across the cooking surface...

The detached firebox allows for heat control.....   Fire directly inside the smoker, not so much heat control..

Dave

I second that...

 

[smokejumper]

Oil tanks are usually made of relatively thin material and are not highly stressed. Should not give you any trouble cutting out the doors.

 

[gary s]

Hello, and Welcome from East Texas. This is a great site, lots of good information and great people.

Have had and built several types, I prefer My RF I like the way it cooks

Gary

 

[boykjo]

Here's a ton of information for you.... http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/newsearch?search=oil+tank      ribwizzard did a nice build.......  http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t/123101/got-the-fever-for-another-build-would-like-opinions

 

[victor1800]

Thanks for links, looks like its very informative here at this site ! I am also glad to know that my doors wont bend out when I cut them.