"M&M" >
> On 2-Aug-2004, Jesse Skeens > wrote:
>
> >
> > As far as 220 well thats right where mine was at but not where
> > I wanted it to be. Could never get it hotter than that except
> > briefly.
> >
> I'm completely baffled by your problem getting it as hot as you'd like.
> Mine will easily reach 400°. My problem is keeping the
> heat under 300°. I don't bother with any pattern to the load of lump.
> It may matter, but I don't mess with it. Actually, it sounds like your
> problems are pretty minor.
>

Mine doesnt like going over 300 much either any more. When I 1st got it had
a hard time getting it under 275, go figure. Seems these things must vary a
lot between designs and age and whatnot.

As far as I can tell, minion method is for vert smokers with the round tray,
but I've had luck with putting new coal partly on an existing coal bed,
leaving the rest of the pile to light from the new stuff being lit.
It's all common sense, you'll get the hang of it pretty quick.