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Fellas -

I made my last modification today adding a basket to the off-set firebox that my charcoal will sit on.  All other mods mentioned on this site have been done and I can't wait cause tomorrow's the day.  I will be smoking up my first pork butt since doing the mods.  I can tell you this, my world of knowledge thus far in smoking was turned upside down with these mods but I am so glad I came across them when I did because I was doing it wrong.  I have produced some tasty stuff in the past but can't believe I hadn't come across these modifications earlier.  The only unknown for me now is my temperature meaning getting my vents, etc. set so my cooker will stay 210-220 degrees.  Practice is the only way I guess.

For those interested in my basket setup, this is what I did:

1. Went to Lowe's and bought a Char-Broil Shaker Basket for $14.00.  They sell them right now, I just got mine so they should have it.

2. I cut off the half-moon shaped wire pieces that are on each side leaving only a square basket shape.  The basket has a riveted piece on one side where a handle is supposed to be inserted which of course you won't use.  I had trouble getting that thing off and I would recommend cutting it out with wire cutters.

3. Removed all 4 bolts and nuts on side firebox that originally held grate.

4. Bought 4 – 3″ long 1/4″ bolts (number 20) and matching nuts.

The basket sits perfectly on the longer bolts.  The thing I like about it is you can adjust the height of the basket by hooking it onto a different rung of the basket.  Mine sits lower right now which is recommended but high enough so that I can very easily remove the ash door if need by during my cook.

Hope that helps someone!

Cheerio!

Beltwaybbq