HELP please...TOO HOT>>>ASAP

[backyardchef]

Doesn't sound like an excessive amount of fuel to me, but as you learn your cooker more, may wind up using less. I would suggest starting with less than you need, and then w/ air if you can't get up to temp, then start adding more fuel slowly (wood or charcoal) until you hit your target and you can stablize. It's easier to add heat than take away.

I also think ribs, being a thinner cut, take on a more pronounced smoke flavor more easily/quickly than a pork butt or brisket which have much more dense mass.......Sounds like you are on your way!

 

[chad]

With the WSM (an efficient but not insulated cooker) I use about 8# of charcoal (and a few small wood chunks) in the ring...and then light off 12-15 briquettes -- when they are going to go into the center of the charcoal (al a Minion method)...nice long burns and controllable heat...

Damper control allows 220-350 degrees whenever I want it.

If you've got an insulated cooker -- try starting fewer coals and being a bit more patient with the cooker coming up to heat.