Easiest UDS Drum to use for a build?

grilling24x7 · Jan 5, 2013

So I've read the redneck UDS thread and skimmed through the big 500 page one. I'm reading all this stuff about linings in the 55 gallon drum and how hard it is to scrub off.

I'm aware that a good burn out is needed on any drum you are going to use as a UDS but which type doesn't require too much scrubbing and painful cleaning? I read some guys saying the "red liner" is a no-no but others say that liner comes right off.

I'm a bit confused. I don't mind buying a new drum even though I see that some guys are getting them for free, but...

What's the easiest type of 55 gallon drum to use in terms of that initial clean/burn out?

Thanks!

John

HeSmellsLikeSmoke · Jan 5, 2013

Unlined, unused, open top drum.

grilling24x7 · Jan 5, 2013

Thanks!

That makes sense.

Now the search for one begins!

bo_b_q · Jan 5, 2013

Mine was used for motor oil...no liner as the oil kept it from rusting...just burned it out, used a leaf blower to add some extra air to get it good and hot, then a quick spray with the pressure washer.

Link to my build if it helps...nothing to different but you can see the burn out process.
http://www.bbq-brethren.com/forum/showthread.php?t=149301

gtr · Jan 5, 2013

See if there's a drum company in your area. There is one in L.A. called "Apex Drum" that sells drums including refurbs. If you find such a place, ask for a refurb but tell them to not put in the rust inhibitor. Grab the drum and oil/greasre it right away and season as soon as you can.

Enkidu · Jan 5, 2013

gtr said:
See if there's a drum company in your area. There is one in L.A. called "Apex Drum" that sells drums including refurbs.

This is where I am buying mine.

jrn · Jan 6, 2013

If your going for the easiest ones, stay away from any with liners. You can make fine cookers with either the open or closed top barrels.

Foxfire · Jan 6, 2013

You also have the option of getting any food grade drum sandblasted down to bare steel. Usually $40 to $60 if you comparison shop enough.

dupemaster · Jan 6, 2013

Like mentioned above, a new, unlined, open headed drum is the easiest to do. do a google search on local supliers. I found them for under $100 localy.

grilling24x7 · Jan 7, 2013

Thanks guys,
I found a local supplier with a reconditioned drum for $38. I asked whether it had a lining and at first the lady hesitated but then said it has no lining (unlined).

When a drum is reconditioned, if there was a liner, is it all removed and pretty much stripped down to just a steel barrel? She offered a new barrel for $91.

jrn · Jan 7, 2013

As far as new drums go, the Cary Company had the best online prices that I saw. Investigate locally too. I was ready to give up finding good drums locally. Then I spoke to a Brethren from my same hometown who told me where to look. The place is a hair care products manufacturer. They dont advertise the barrels, just word of mouth. Closed top drums that were previously filled with light mineral oil. $20 a barrel all day long. No liners!

Don't give up looking. There may be good barrels right around you.

Jason

jrn · Jan 7, 2013

grilling24x7 said:
Thanks guys,
I found a local supplier with a reconditioned drum for $38. I asked whether it had a lining and at first the lady hesitated but then said it has no lining (unlined).

When a drum is reconditioned, if there was a liner, is it all removed and pretty much stripped down to just a steel barrel? She offered a new barrel for $91.[/QUOTE

Just a thought on reconditioned barrels. You're basically taking someone's word about what might have been in barrel previously.

grilling24x7 · Jan 7, 2013

correction - I just found a drum supplier in Baltimore that has new unlined 55 gallon drums for $70. I think that's a winner.

jrn · Jan 7, 2013

grilling24x7 said:
correction - I just found a drum supplier in Baltimore that has new unlined 55 gallon drums for $70. I think that's a winner.

Cool! Your on your way. You're going to love cooking on it!

SmokerKing · Jan 7, 2013

Brand new un-lined drums are $70

aawa · Jan 7, 2013

grilling24x7 said:
correction - I just found a drum supplier in Baltimore that has new unlined 55 gallon drums for $70. I think that's a winner.

Do they have an online site by chance? If they do can you link us?

NU2QN · Jan 7, 2013

I use shipping drums that contained nuts, bolts, washers, etc. The drums are unlined as the nuts, bolts, etc. are packed in a heavy duty plastic liner. I should mention I get them for $18, no dents and a lid ring. My supplier gets them from the ports if that is any help to you.

Enkidu · Jan 7, 2013

No idea what costs elsewhere are, but in Los Angeles, Apex sells refurbished "smoker drums" (they actually call them that) that have no paint job and no lining and have been sand-blasted for $35 a piece. The lady I spoke to just now says that their refurbished drums are certified for liquids without leakage so they shouldn't let in any air that you want.

yakdung · Jan 7, 2013

Next UDS I build will be with a new drum.

grilling24x7 · Jan 7, 2013

aawa said:
Do they have an online site by chance? If they do can you link us?

The site isn't too helpful, but their staff was helpful.

http://abbeydrum.com/

Easiest UDS Drum to use for a build?

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