Ugly Drum Smokers

[Steve]

Al,

I'm having a bit of frustration with the UDS.

On our first test burn 2 weeks ago it held for hours, we were really looking forward to using it properly.

However when we did our first cook on Saturday it would just not hold temp. We had all our vents uncapped and the ball valve fully open, but the charcoal only took near the ball valve.

The bag of lump we had was crap, mostly small bits, so I'm thinking it was that for now, but I'd be interested to hear if you had any alternative theories.

[DrSweetsmoke]

Ya I would say the fuel was the problem. Using small bits cause it to choke itself just like a build up of ash will do. Although the vents were wide open there wasn't enough air getting to all of the fuel, lump burns nice and hot but it's gotta breath.

I use that 'shake' in my grills to get rid of it and save all the good stuff for the smoker.

[Steve]

I'll be doing the same in future.

Nevermind, the food did taste good off the UDS though.

do you reckon you'll compete with a UDS this year or will you use the Beast?

[DrSweetsmoke]

Honestly don't know yet. The only one that has done pulled pork on the beast it Toby and he hasn't giving up the details.lol I've changed the way I do brisket so there's still work to be done.
The beast was designed for catering so this weekend I'll be working to get the temps up higher yet keeping the ability to bring her back to smoking temps. As you know she loses a lot of heat when the doors are opeded but there is no way to insulate her, rocking along at smoking temps is no effort at all so I'll be working on a baffel, fuel cell and a restriction for the exhaust on mothers day.

She would be great to comp cook on so everything gets in at once but where's the fun in that? HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

Could bring both and see how I feel on the day.



Wouldn't it be great to hook a pellet pooper to it? I would be better off money wise getting a Treager though. One can dream.

[Steve]

Personally I'd love an FEC but I think I want a Spicewine more, then there's Jambo's and Klose's to throw into the mix.

I've already spoken to Jay Curry about getting a Spicewine, maybe next year or the year after. For now though I'm going to stick with the Excels and the UDS.

[DrSweetsmoke]

I'm a big fan of the Spice box and have wanted one for years , the only thing besides cash that keeps me from a Spice or a Klose is the fact that I don't do that much food in bulk. The UDS hit's the spot at the moment and if it's a larger call then the Meat Beast takes over.I want a pellet pooper so I can keep up with CJ and Toby. Now if I could get hold of a Bubba Keg that would be ace. Primos and eggs are awesome but heavy to travel with.

[British Bulldog BBQ]

Hi Al, have you worked on a baffle or grease trap for the beast yet? The pork was no secret, just set up the meat to the left and kept filling the right barel. foiled after 6 hours and went to bed

Doesnt matter what you use, just be there! I really think there are going to be some bragging rights this year. its going to be close.

[DrSweetsmoke]

hahahah! Gotcha , figured you kept it easy.

Went out to the farm today and gave her a huge burn out then measured the grates. Still haven't come up with a solid plan for the grease trap yet but there are a few things rolling around in my head. Did manage to duild a defuser though she needs to be cut down a bit and I'm hoping it shares grease trap dutys. Rann the cooker as per usual and she sat steady in the 2-5-0 range.

I plan on being at the comp even if I have to use tin foil, a peanut and an ashtray to cook on.

[Steve]

Al, another question for you...

On one of your UDS you've got an exhaust screwed directly into the 2" bung hole on the lid, what did you use for that and where did you get it.

Number one UDS is living at Neil's house so I'm going to build number two UDS next week, this time I'm going to try to get a drum with a 2" bung to use as the exhaust.

[DrSweetsmoke]

It's a section of 2" stainless tubing with a fitting welded to it. had it made at work. I also have one that's at a 90 that I use when it rains.

There is a bit in the back yard and I'll cut a section for ya if you want. Mines about 12", you're welcome to it for free but I don't have the connector...could pay a visit to my old job and see if I can muster one up for you.

Let me know,
Al