I just did mine, and followed the instructions, kinda. LOL I did not spray it with anything, just connected the propane tank, turned it on, brought it up to about 230 or so and ran it with hickory wood for about 2 hours. I also put water in the tray and rigged up a thermomter inside by drilling a hole into a 2x4 for the probe. It would move anywhere between 220 and 235 or so, but I figured that was good. Once it hit about 2 hours or so, I shut it down, let it cool and put it away. We have had rain almost everyday since then, so I have not had a chance to actually try and cook in it. But, that is what I did. But, let me also say, I am a real newbie, so I kinda went with the instructions and just put my spin on it Good luck.