WSM Modification

[MacInAction]

I loved the sticky from Day Tripper regarding the Brinkmann modifications to cut costs AND get the performance of a quality smoker. This project seems like a lot of fun to do in spare time.

This smoker will not work well in my area because of my close proximity to the beach. I have seen the higher end Decor, Lynx, and DCS stainless grills rust badly after a few years of exposure to the salty, humid air we have along the coast of Florida. It is surprising how many locals buy $10k summer kitchens and won't invest in an $8 can of Sheila Shine to keep the components looking like new!

IMHO, the Brinkmann would probably require new body parts every few years. I don't want to make a routine of replacing the cheaply painted steel parts that Brinkmann is known for producing. The WSM is looking like a better option, even if it is nearly double the price.

Is there a method to modify the vents on a WSM to eliminate the temperature fluctuations that result from windy conditions? I understand that most users are able to close the vent facing the wind, but that is another problem we have here - swirling winds that frequently change speed and direction. In addition, I live in a condo and must keep it at least 10' from any building structure (fire code), so I am unable to use a building as a wind breaker.

I am curious if the addition of shrouds to the lower vents, similar to the shape that is used for dryer vents on houses, would be advantageous. I'd like to get away from this rusty bullet that I now have, but I am not sure what purchase would be the best for my weather conditions and budget. I need to keep it under $400, if possible, including all parts for modifications.

[SoEzzy]

Don't bother to mod the WSM, just build either a tri-fold or quad-fold wind break, some folks call them cardboard box's, some make them out of marine ply board.

Make sure to leave a 2 - 3" gap all round so the wind break doesn't burn, it is worth making it at least half the height to help create the still air you want.
_________________
Here's a change Robert.

I still work here!

[SVonhof]

I was going to suggest the same thing, a wind-break. Get the smoker you want (WSM makes sense with the enamel finish) and spend $60 on some plywood and some marine grade lacquer and some aluminum hinges.

If you are not sure on the hinges, check to see what they have at McMaster Carr, like part #1575A534


Or go with Stainless lift-off hinges so you can easily take your wind-break apart and store it flat against a wall (where the salty air won't get to it as bad). McMaster part #12575A74 (you will need 2 for each hinge joint).

_________________
Scott V.
My BBQ's: Weber Silver B (grill), -UDS-, MUDS/Weber Smokey Joe

[k.a.m.]

Yep use a wind break. I use scrap 7/16'' osb board. If I do have to aproblem with swirling high winds I close the vents opposite the wind and regulate the one that is in the wind, for me our 22'' likes this set up better.
_________________
Always remember slow and steady wins the race.

Hybrid Cooker

[Beertooth]

Check out this page for some great wind breaks!

http://www.virtualweberbullet.com/coldtemp.html
_________________
Camp Chef Pro90 Stove w/ Griddle
1985 22" Weber Kettle
CharGriller
18.5" WSM (Stoked)
22.5" WSM
85 Gallon UDS
Weber Smokey Joe/Mini WSM
Cast Iron Cookware
24" Disc Cooker
Masterbuilt 40" Electric
Char-Griller Akorn