First ever build: 35Gal RF

[Blakus]

Hi everyone, I’m David I live in the UK, I’ve used a cheap drum smoker for a few years and have enjoyed the results but the build quality and design has been frustrating to say the least.
It’s time to build a nice piece of kit that will last me a life time.
I want to build a RF smoker from a compressor tank, I’ve been trying to read as many forum posts as possible for research.
Today I took the plunge and bought the tank for my project- from the outside I make the measurements 1200mmx400mm (47inx16in).
40gal/ 150l?
A baby sized smoker compared to most I’ve been reading about on here!
I’m looking for some help along the way, I want to make sure I do everything in the best possible way.
So now I have the tank, what’s next?
Thanks in advance, D.

 

[kruizer]

Welcome to SMF from Minnesota

 

[kmmamm]

Congratulations, next step is to run your tank numbers through Dave’s calculator. The information will help you decide what else is required to make that compressor tank work. I am am always surprised when people begin cutting and welding before they understand what is actually required to build a successful design.

 

[Blakus]

Thanks kmmamm, not sure if I’ve done it right, but this is what I come up with...

Link to BBQ Pit Calculator

 

[Blakus]

This weekend I’d like to make a start on the smoker, I’ll dismantle all the unwanted junk and remove all the unwanted attachments.

I’d like to get a accurate internal measurement of the length and diameter of the CC so I can run the calculator again but I understand you shouldn’t cut the CC door before welding the FB on to prevent warping the CC.

Should cut the FB opening in the CC first so I can get some internal measurements?
Should I cut it just below halfway down and in past the dome end a couple of inches?

Thanks, D.

 

[Blakus]

Today we stripped the tank down, smoothed everything off and marked out the CC/FB opening.

 

[Blakus]

Would someone like to cast their eye over my calculations before we make the first cut?

Thanks, D.

 

[Blakus]

This Friday we made the cut to the CC, not to the original measurements, but to what daveomak recommended due to me using such a long and narrow CC.

Thanks to daveomak for the revised calculations!

 

[Blakus]

Shortly after that we had time to cut the steel for the FB

 

[Blakus]

Hi everyone! After a massive delay (nearly 3 years, oops!) we're going to get building again.

I just would like to ask some advice with the usual order of play. Does this seem correct?

1- build the fb independently.
2- cut the and attach door on cc.
3- clean and burn rust out of cc (any tips welcome! its quite rusty)
4- weld fb to cc

Thanks, David.