4" is plenty of space for ash. If you don't do long overnight cooks. 3" is plenty.
I have never noticed a difference in amount of coal used. But I never really looked for a difference. I use what I use no matter the cooker.

Hear ya. I'm sure that I can even get away with 1" clearance. Lump just doesn't produce that much ash

That's great advice. Thanks

I know this is a longshot but does anyone happen to know where I can find a stainless steel drum or a new unlined drum in Oklahoma?

Alternatively, do these look like they'd work well for a UDS build? I wasn't sure with the bolt lock ring.

https://oklahomacity.craigslist.org/...453484517.html

I think those would work fine. Just need a good burn. If the metal is too thin, well, you only have $20 invested. I like the smooth sides.

Yeah, I was sort of attracted to the smooth sides as well. Reminds me of a hunsaker, although they do look sort of thin from the picture for some reason.

You could always check them out before handing over the money. Shoot at $20 and if they're good, I would buy all 4. I have plenty of friends that want me to make them one. I tell them, you buy the parts and help me drink beer while we burn em out. I'll have you cooking for me on Sunday. :biggrin1:

[QUOTE=Blue Kettle;3936329]I know this is a longshot but does anyone happen to know where I can find a stainless steel drum or a new unlined drum in Oklahoma?

Alternatively, do these look like they'd work well for a UDS build? I wasn't sure with the bolt lock ring.

https://oklahomacity.craigslist.org/...453484517.html[/QUOTE

If you are close to Tulsa, give Sooner Container a call. they will sell you new, unlined drums. 55 gallon drum used to be around $60.

Address: 2101 N 170th E Ave, Tulsa, OK 74116Phone: (918) 234-0081


Good luck,

Robert

I prefer NOT to get a lined drum. you have to burn it out and then paint the outside.

get you an unlined drum and you don't have to do a burn out or paint. for the $30-40 extra its well worth it imo

[QUOTE=Robert;3936369]I'm in OKC but for unlined I could be persuaded to take a drive. Thanks for the info.

I see stainless steel drums for $600 online. I’ll pay that price for more space but not for stainless steel.

Anyone use the BGE style intake with success? I like the idea but it gets pretty windy in Houston.

Anyone try a fixed intake akin to the pit barrel cooker? Like, literally just drilling a hole with no door or anything to change it? (I recognize the PBC can technically be adjusted slightly but it's meant as a set and forget for a given elevation). It seems like the PBC has shown this ought to work provided you could get the correct size.

Imo that is NOT a good idea! you have little control of your temp and it would change on the whim of weather, humidity, amount of coals you have in the box, amount of coals you lit, amount of food in the cooker, etc etc.

Some people just drill the holes and use magnets to adjust the air flow.