"Larry" > wrote in message
...
> On Sat, 04 Jun 2005 17:30:30 GMT, JD > wrote:
>
> >Larry wrote:
> >
> <snip>
> >>>
> >>>Any hints?
> >>>
> >>>
> >>
> >>Try less coals next time.
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >Less? I've had the same problem with my new Smoky Joe; not really hot
> >enough to sear a steak as well as I'd like and chicken breasts don't
> >come out like I'd expect. I've been loading the Weber chimney almost
> >full with lump, maybe half that?
> >
> >JD
>
>
> To me, it seemed a full chimney caused the ventilation to be blocked.
> If half chimney does not work try the "B" things. It seems Webers
> were designed for briquettes.
>
> I have got kettle and Smokey Joe. Neither work well for searing
> steaks.

I've somewhat solved the problem on my large model Smokey Joe by ordering a
couple of vents from Weber and installing them below the charcoal level.
It was a bit of a PITA but improved the heat level.
FYI, Weber has removed the bottom vents on several of their models...it
don't make sense to me and their Customer Service rep didn't have an answer.
She just said "it should get hot enough with the vents up by the
handle...maybe your charcoal was damp"

Steve