Can't keep temp stable..HELP

[hawksouth]

Guys, I have an Oklahoma Joe, off set, have sealed around fire box with High Temp calk,
got new thermometer, get temp up to cooking and once it starts dropping Iopen fire box to get more air flow, still
dropping, I add a chunk of wood, 15 or so later I'm 30 degrees over cook temp. Food either cooks way to fast or way to
slow. I haven't gotten the convection plate yet, will it help??
Looking for any advice here or suggestion????

 

[noboundaries]

If you can keep your temp within 30 degrees of target you are fine.  Don't sweat that. 

 

[hawksouth]

NOBOUNDRIES,

That is good to know, so 30 degrees either way I'm ok during the smoke.
That alone reduces the frustration level by 50 points.
THANKS!!!

 

[joe black]

The convection plate would definitely help. Especially in temp distribution. In my offset, I management my temps with fire size. It takes a very good base of coals and then don't let the fire get too low before you put in another piece of wood. If at all possible, pre-heat the wood before you add it to your fire. This way the new wood ignites quickly. Also, two small splits are better than one large one. This will help with fire balance and keep the fire more even. Keep the fire small and hot. Good luck, Joe.

 

[hawksouth]

Joe,

Thanks for the help, I will get the convection plate this weekend, and the fire advice was good.