Hey! I use a
Masterbuilt XL Gas Smokehouse propane smoker and while I'm no master, I'm learning! After some trial & error I've concluded a few things regarding the manufacturer instructions regarding the chip/chunks thing, and about how much to put in the wood holder.
First, toss their instructions away! I use a mix of chips and chunks and I fill the wood thing pretty full (2 cups of chips only is what they is the max for mine model!) I do make sure my chips/chunks are well soaked. If you have the ability to "start" your hickory in an other venue, great! I don't. I start off with one or two good chunks of hickory and apple and chips from both when I'm getting up to temp, but never add more hickory chunks after my meat goes in... From there on I use hickory and apple chips and through in a chunk of apple every now and then. I usually add wood about 75 to 90 minutes.
Good luck on your Butt tomorrow! I'm doin on, too!! Post plenty of pics!!!