[willkat98]

If you can get 225*, go for it!!

I have a hard time keeping below 250* in my kettle, so thats why I suggested the higher amounts.

You will need to add a couple "lit" coals during the cook no mater what to maintain your temp range.

Pyrex probe thermometers are $15 at Meijer.

Sometimes people will even run hot water in their cooler, to "pre warm" it, but this shouldn't be necessary. The point is to just bring down the temps slowly. I leave the probe in there, and keep the thermometer on the top of the cooler. When I see 160-165*, I know its cool enough to slice without burning my fingers!!