General refridge/freezer questions

[joeintopeka]

I have a little upright freezer that just shot craps and am thinking about a smoker project. I notice people changing insulation. Why is the freezers existing not appropriate? 

Are the existing door gaskets not sufficient?

Intend to use an attached, exterior fire box.

 

[s2k9k]

I believe it's a heat issue.

I see this is your first post so when you get a minute would you do us a favor and swing by "Roll Call" and introduce yourself so we can give you a proper SMF Welcome, Thanks!

 

[papa chops]

You can use the old insulation if its in good shape. For me I just got the pink fiberglass just becaus it was a cheap way to go. As far as the gasket I went with a stove rope. It's nice and fat for a good seal and I don't have to worry about it melting or any toxins. Well good luck and have fun with your build

 

[joeintopeka]

Thanks, and I forgot one question. It's a newer style freezer with plastic lining. Does it really need metal lining? Is outgassing a problem? Surely the plastic can handle smoking temps.

 

[mneeley490]

Thanks, and I forgot one question. It's a newer style freezer with plastic lining. Does it really need metal lining? Is outgassing a problem? Surely the plastic can handle smoking temps.

Only if you are cold smoking. And even then, I wouldn't trust it not to transfer plastic flavors to the food.

 

[kc5tpy]

mneeley 490, you forgot to mention the fun with the blown in insulation!  I use your build as a guide for any question like this.  joeintopeka,  most folks here agree the risk with the plastic isn't worth it.  Plastics can be made from some pretty nasty stuff.  Galvanized steel is another of those things to stay clear of.  "Maybe kinda sorta MIGHT be ok  at certain temps".  Why risk your families health??  I have actually seen and read a post about someone who used the original door gasket but for the life  of me I can't find it now.  I would have thought it would melt but he said had been using it for years.  Most folks build their fridge smokers from old fridges.  They have metal interiors and often the old insulation is good.  The old insulation doesn't seem to burn or melt.  As for insulation in new fridges, they tend to be polystyrene, styrofoam which is blown on from liquid foam.  Think of that spray can expanding gap sealer.  It would melt and probably give off nasty gasses.  For dealing with this I will point you to mneeley490's thread on his build.  He did a good job I think.  Check this out: http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t/115657/commercial-ss-fridge-build-my-first-try   Let us know what you decide and post pictures.  We like pictures!  Hope this helps.  Good Luck.  Keep Smokin!

Danny