Standing dead wood - Too old ?

[Jersey BBQ]

Yesterday we had a tree guy come and take a few huge dead oaks down. The way upper branches were falling and bark starting to pop off trunk here and there. The cut lengths show a solid center and maybe a 1/2” area of softer wood right under bark. We’re talking about 12 to 14” diameter logs. Didn’t know if that soft area would be a bad thing in any way... Thought I’d throw it to the Brethren and see what folks with more experience than me thought ?
I’m going to try and post a pic shortly. (Need more pic hosting site recommendations too !) Thanks in advance

 

[1MoreFord]

Sounds like it could be pre-seasoned cooking wood to me.

Try some.

Even if it's not ready now it should dry far faster than normal.

 

[Stlsportster]

Try Imgur.

I smoke with some pretty old wood, dirt, bug, dog pee, squirrel and bird poop.....but when it gets soft and rotted it goes to the firepit pile.

 

[Kmm]

If is only 1/2” of doughy, Cut, split, and stack it. Once fully seasoned, it will be fine for smoking. You will be surprised how much of the doughy material simply falls off in the splitting process. Be sure to stack it off of the ground, in an area that allows for sunlight and good airflow.

 

[Monkey Uncle]

Personally, I'd trim off the rotten sapwood. Heartwood should be fine, unless it looks punky too.

 

[jzadski]

Try Imgur.

I smoke with some pretty old wood, dirt, bug, dog pee, squirrel and bird poop.....but when it gets soft and rotted it goes to the firepit pile.

I can't believe you just gave out your secret ingredients