WSM 22.5 Issue

[jpatrick88]

I recently got my first WSM coming from a Masterbuilt Gravity Fed Charcoal Smoker. So far, I've done two smokes, ribs and pork shoulder, which both came out great. My only issue is that the cooling off period for the smoker seems to take forever. I'm talking over 12 hours with all the vents closed and still not completely cooled off. I'm assuming I need a few more smokes and maybe the seal will be better. Otherwise, I'm looking at a lavalock mod. I'm worried about the mod because getting it to temp and holding has been amazing and I don't want to mess with a good thing. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[chopsaw]

I'm talking over 12 hours with all the vents closed and still not completely cooled off. I'm assuming I need a few more smokes and maybe the seal will be better.

Yup . Sounds like you're getting air from somewhere . Probably around the door . The 22's are the worst ones for the doors not sealing . Take a look at it . If you have gaps try to gently shape it to the contour of the body .
I have a 14 , and after a 1/2 dozen smokes , it's sealed up pretty good .

 

[gmc2003]

If you can't easily see the smoke leaking out of the 22 when you're cooking. Then put a flash light on the bottom of the WSM when it's dark out and look for visible light. Like Rich chopsaw mentioned you can gently message the door to correctly seal. It will also self seal after you've used it for a while. If it's leaking from between the lid and body or the bottom section and body those also can be gently messaged back into round by giving it a smooth bear hug.

Chris

 

[normanaj]

I have a 14 so when I do a smoke on it for the most part the fuel is usually close to spent by the end of the cook.I ended up gasketing the door,the top and bottom of the body where it meets the lid and the base and I've got a great seal and no leaks.

I'll be doing a smallish chicken on it today.It has been a while since I've fired up my WSM so I'll make some observations and see if it's still airtight.

 

[chopsaw]

This has me wanting to fire mine up too .

 

[SmokingUPnorth]

I also bought a gasket kit for the door and lid. My bbq add I sold it before I used it too much but I’m sure it’s like the kettle, the kit should seal up after a few cooks and door might not hurt to get the gasket

 

[Colin1230]

These guys have you covered J jpatrick88 . Enjoy that new WSM, it will serve you well. Oh, by the way, welcome to the forum.

 

[chopsaw]

If it's leaking from between the lid and body or the bottom section and body those also can be gently messaged back into round by giving it a smooth bear hug.

That's a good suggestion . Spin the sections , like the lid to the body . Sometimes they will show if it's out of round .

My brand new 26" Kettle went over in a windstorm after only one cook .

had to use a bar clamp to get it back .

 

[fxsales1959]

I recently got my first WSM coming from a Masterbuilt Gravity Fed Charcoal Smoker. So far, I've done two smokes, ribs and pork shoulder, which both came out great. My only issue is that the cooling off period for the smoker seems to take forever. I'm talking over 12 hours with all the vents closed and still not completely cooled off. I'm assuming I need a few more smokes and maybe the seal will be better. Otherwise, I'm looking at a lavalock mod. I'm worried about the mod because getting it to temp and holding has been amazing and I don't want to mess with a good thing. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

I did my both 18's doors and top rim. My coals are almost toast by the end of the cook. I've used this gasket material on both of my 18's it's stayed on for a couple years so far and cheap.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09F9CHF68?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1

 

[gmc2003]

That would work also. As long as your not to aggressive with tightening. Must have been quite the windstorm to knock over the 26. I don't leave my grills out often. Usually only to cool down, but one time the 22 Kettle was tipped over by the wind and the 26 stood strong. I was happy that I cook on on lawn so no damage.

Chris

 

[chopsaw]

That would work also. As long as your not to aggressive with tightening.

Your idea works for the WSM for sure . That edge of the 26 is pretty tough .
I almost cried .
You won't remember , but I ordered that and it showed up with a chip in the lid , so I sent it back .
Got the new one , did 1 cook and it blew over and chipped the lid . Story of my life .