Yet another new Pennsylvanian.

[Andrew1088]

Long time reader, first time poster.
Mostly just cold smoke for now. I have a char broil big easy, don't smoke on it too much.
I built a cold smoker and have a question.


What's the black stuff around the screw?

And why only on some?



In building phase here, I don't use electric tools.

some cheese I smoked.
Also been having problems with my tube smoker, I can't seem to get anything but white smoke. Smoker is not air tight. Didn't think it would matter. There's 6-3/4 inch holes for intake and 2 for exhaust. I'm thinking that's not enough for exhaust.

 

[Fade2Blacc]

Welcome to SMF fellow Pennsylvanian we're growing stronger lol. As far as the black I'm gonna guess creosote or possibly just the smoke (I'd try a sniff test lol). More knowledgeable ones wil come thru. But welcome again. You've come to the holy grail of smoking knowledge with the members we have here.

Edit: cheese looks amazing, what did you use?

 

[Laftpig]

Welcome Andrew1088

Did you use the black sheet rock screws for the build? I get that same effect when I use them yellow pine.

 

[Andrew1088]

Thanks guys. I've learned quite a bit already and barely scratched the surface. What wood on the cheese? I'm experimenting with a mixture of pecan, apple and beech.
Screws are just regular wood screws. It's real weird to me that only about half of them are affected.

 

[smokin pop-pop]

Could be oxidation or a rust forming from the moisture created
by use. You could try switching out the screws for stainless.
Me personally I would leave it I think it adds character. Nice
Block plane and hand drill you got there

 

[Andrew1088]

I was just concerned about negative health implications, thought maybe I did something wrong. I won't worry any more about it. That's a Miller's Fall brace circa 1925. And a Stanley liberty bell circa 1875. Both completely original.

 

[chopsaw]

Does the brace and bit have the ratchet / reverse switch ? I use mine for counter sinking . I also have a 2 speed hand drill . Has a pad you lean on and a ring and pinion gear set to drive the bit . Some of those planes can bring big money .

 

[Andrew1088]

Yea it has a ratchet, came in real handy during my build. I have an old dunlap egg beater. Haven't been able to date it yet. I paid 20 for the plane. Needed trued and has a cracked tote but it gets the job done.