Ag80n, Howdy, I'm new to the site, Uncle Sam is done with me after 28 years of service. I have been reading lots on various smokers and my hat is off to you on your Greasy Hill info. I have ordered one of their BR-01's, added rib box and basket. I talked to John and they're going to take your improvements on the firebox and make the improvements when they build mine. He (John) was happy to see your post and the positive way you explained the improvements. I'll post info and pictures once I get mine. I can't wait. Regards, Chill
My hat's off to you for your service!
When I talked to John he seemed like the kind of person that was willing to listen and improve his product. I was pretty sure that if I had wanted to wait on him to build me one he would have made the performance mods himself. I just knew that I could get them done and he had the model I wanted there that day and at a really good price. I understand some of the other things he does to save production costs such as the skip welds. As I said none of those things were structurally problematic.
I wasn't sure if the air flow was really an issue till I got it home and to be honest I think you could run it with two pinwheels most of the time. The third really does help to get it on up to the 300-350 range when you need it. You could crack the door but I think adding the third intake keeps the draft better and allows hotter runs than an open door would.
Two other mods that we did that I forgot to mention were:
1. to seal the sides of the reverse flow plate with some 1 inch strips (decent size gap there on mine)
2. added a ring and bolt to the base of the propane tank holder to help secure it- may not be needed but couldn't hurt
One other thing I am going to do is add an RV level to the tongue. These things work best with a little nose down tilt and I want something there to help me hit the sweet spot each time.
Been doing a burn in it today and it has been holding 250 pretty even across the grate. The draft is very good now. Fueling with splits about 1 every 45 minutes to an hour which is what I expected.
I was actually thinking of contact John to let him know about the things we did because he seemed interested in that kind of info. Looks like I won't have to now. :becky:
For what you pay for his cooker, and especially with John doing these mods, you will get a fine cooker at a great price. :thumb:
I hope everything turns out well for you and yes please post pics.
