Fire making techniques for uds?

[MattU]

Ok guys I have my uds put together. Goin to try a test run burn. Can some of u guys give a detailed run down of how you build and establish your fire?Stuff like how long to leave lid off would be very helpful.
_________________
COS modified and always looking for mods to improve results!

[polishdon]

I fill my charcoal basket with however much fuel I need, typically a whole 16 - 20lb bag. Then I put in my wood chunks and space them out evenly from the center of the pile.

Then I start about 20 coals in my chimney starter.

Drop the loaded charcoal basket in the drum.

Open all intakes on drum.

Once the 20 coals are nice and hot I dump them in a small pile on top of the cold ones. Spread them out a little bit and put one nice chunk of wood on top.

Then I put my grates in, and put the top on. Usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes and it will be creeping to 200 degrees, at that point I cap off 1 intake and let it ride for about 30 minutes and make any necessary intake adjustments from there.

You have to make sure to give the drum a chance to react to any intake changes you make. SO if you close\open one, wait at least 30 minutes to see what happens in the drum before making any more adjustments.