With my short experience using the KBQ, I have come to this conclusion - don’t negate the need to build and maintain a good burning fire, don’t just throw logs in. Position the wood to burn good, tend to it as needed, take the lid off to get it burning good, then put it back on. If the fire doesn’t look to be burning well, adjust it so it does burn well. Reposition a log or something. Use right sized logs. Even though a log might fit in the box, it might not be a good log for the fire to burn well. Temps I can control with the thermostat. Smoke I can control with the poppets. All I have I have to do is make sure the fire is burning right and building a good coal base.
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That's pretty much been my experience as well. If a log is the square shape and size of a standard brick I usually cut it in half longways because I usually lose my coal base with a chunk that big. I always keep a few thinner sticks to slide in through the bottom of the firebox incase I start losing the coal bed.
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I find that it is key to have a good thick coal bed, then you are always pulling in hot, clean air. Fluffing up the coals seems to help as well.
I generally run the top and bottom poppets wide open for the first part of the cook, then I will shut the top poppets and only run the bottom wide open.Comment
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You can not be shy with adding wood to keep a good coal bed. I have never had an issue except when trying to miser wood. Per the manual it says Red bull can size pieces. I think I remember KBQ saying to keep the fire box half full of wood. Also some top poppet action is necessary if you want any smoke flavor on what you are cooking. I don't know that I would go full top poppet, to each thier own. I usually go 1/8 to 1/4 inch.
BTW Where the heck is 3 kbq BBQ_Bill ?Last edited by lostclusters; July 8, 2021, 06:36 PM.Comment
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Honestly the last few times I've cooked brisket and ribs I've ran both poppets fully open burning hickory or post oak with great results. Probably not for everyone though.Comment
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