UDS question from a NEWB

[TexasMuskrat]

So I am thinking of building one of these have already found barrels in my area for 20 dollars. The question I have is how can I do this without a welder? I have never welded and don't own or have the money for a welder. I am looking to be able to make the best smoker I can without having to weld. possible?

 

[BandCollector]

 
So I am thinking of building one of these have already found barrels in my area for 20 dollars. The question I have is how can I do this without a welder? I have never welded and don't own or have the money for a welder. I am looking to be able to make the best smoker I can without having to weld. possible?

There are countless threads here on the Sight regarding building a UDS.  When I built mine I did a search and found a multitude of ideas that were welder free.  What was helpful was that many of them also had pictures included.

Give it a try,  sort through them,  and find what suits you.

Good Luck,

John 

 

[dirtsailor2003]

No need to weld anything. If the drum has a removable lid all you need is a drill, drill bits and a step drill bit. If the drum is sealed you'll need a grinder, or a jig saw with a metal blade.

 

[andrewv]

If you are interested, do a search for the Mini WSM. A quick, easy, and really awesome smoker. I was on the fence between a UDS and the mini, really glad I went with the mini.

 

[TexasMuskrat]

So I have been doing a ton of research and have decided to build one of these I am trying to get all my parts before I buy a barrel. I do have an after it is built question that I just can't seam to find the answer to. When you get your fire/charcoal box built and are ready to test/use your smoker how long do you let your coals fire up before cooking on it? I have always heard that you do not want to cook over charcoal that is not all the way lit/glowing no color. I understand that you use lit coals that you dump in the middle of your fire/charcoal box and then set it in and start using your valves and intakes to get to temp, but do you have to wait until everything is lit and going before cooking on it? Sorry* for all the questions.

Thanks,

  Shawn

 

[j the jaybird]

 
So I have been doing a ton of research and have decided to build one of these I am trying to get all my parts before I buy a barrel. I do have an after it is built question that I just can't seam to find the answer to. When you get your fire/charcoal box built and are ready to test/use your smoker how long do you let your coals fire up before cooking on it? I have always heard that you do not want to cook over charcoal that is not all the way lit/glowing no color. I understand that you use lit coals that you dump in the middle of your fire/charcoal box and then set it in and start using your valves and intakes to get to temp, but do you have to wait until everything is lit and going before cooking on it? Sorry* for all the questions.

Thanks,

  Shawn

I've always just filled my chimney and lit it up and let it sit until the top coals are about 3/4 of the way white. Some people pre-line their basket with unlit charcoal and just toss lit coals on top. I don't know of any reason why not. They tend to do that for longer cooks etc.. I've done it a few times and strategically placed my lumps of wood among it to smoke as the coal burns. Hope this helps.

 

[TexasMuskrat]

So a little update on this. Due to renting and living in an apartment i decided it would be wise of me to wait on this build until i get into a house. I have on the other hand been smoking on my mini weber with success and i am currently keeping my eye out for a pot to turn it into a mini. Thank you.