Ash pan design help

[smokingunny]

Hey everyone, I'm working on my RF smoker and was wondering what is an effective way to be able to remove ashes without opening the fire box door, or at least without disturbing the fire. My box is going to be a square design with the FB door at the end. I was thinking about putting a tray on the opposite of the fire box door so I can slide it out and dump it if needed. Thoughts?

 

[ribwizzard]

Pie vent on bottom allows ashes to fall out. Its also better on windy days.

 

[smokingunny]

So a pie vent on the floor of the FB instead of the door or in addition to an upper and lower vent?

 

[ribwizzard]

Stick a pie vent on the floor and attach an ash pan underneath the firebox, ( but hang it low so it gets plenty of air) then stick a nice row of vents slightly above the firegrate. For upper vent if you want one, all you need is a couple sq inches

 

[smokingunny]

Gotcha. I don't have the time or resources to afford many mistakes, so maybe I can get this right the first time.