[Norcoredneck]

Ok my take on this. On the ash catcher, When you start your fire you start it at the top of the pile so if it is a 12" tall basket say filled say 10" then the actual coals are not buried or shouded by the pan. Pan is an option not a necessity. Helps in easier clean up. I have found lower temps usually mean not enough coals lit at start, damp or old charcoal, incorrect reading on thermometer, or too long of nipples used which causes poor draw. Lets see a pic of each component of build.