New to Smoker world

[LucozadeJim]

Hi All,

I am Jim and live in Nottingham.

I have been fortunate enough to trade my old gas BBQ with my Gilfs mother for her Cactus Jacks Smoker.... Not sure on the model, but the main smoke chamber is about a meter long 40cm wide, L shaped chimney on the left side and a lower fire basket section about the same diameter and about 40cm long (From memory), four legs and two who wheels. (And it weighs a tonne!!)

Its hardly been used but spent the last two or three years sat outside doing nothing...

As a newbie, I suspect its more than I need but as it was a gift then I felt it would be rude to decline....

I've sent it off to be shot blasted and then will be looking to re-coat, need to get the grills replaced then hopefully good to go.......

So having tried to read up on these I have found little advice, I've read on here the beginners tips etc but have found myself lost in the terminology or drifting off along other threads...

I would appreciate any hints/tips etc to preparing to use this, cooking hints and ideas and also general maintenance.
whilst I am sure other types maybe similar and therefore existing posts or threads may also be relevant, I don't know the differences etc so if you can point me in the right direction or if even you own the CJ smoker and care to instil your knowledge and experience then I would be grateful....

I want to try doing pulled pork and beer can chicken etc.....

Hoping to have it ready and give a full try out in about 3 weeks when we have about 8 guinea pigs... Sorry I mean friends coming round so I need to get some knowledge and ideally practice....

Many Thanks in anticipation

Jim

[JEC]

Hello Jim and welcome

I would just fire it up and give it a go. If you can afford it get yourself a meat thermometer and if possible another temperature probe. Get it running between 250 and 350 depending on the food and put the food on, sit back, watch the temperatures and see how it goes, the best way to learn is to do it

[Artust]

Be great to see some pics when you have it how you want it.

[LucozadeJim]

Thanks Jec and Artust,

So my smoker turned up last night shot blasted, I have the spray on Stove burner paint, just wondering if I should give it a wipe down or coat of some kind of rust killer stuff before the heatproof paint goes on.

It was obviously blasted back to its bare form, slight rusting showing already on surface in areas from damp in air I guess.


Any body else restored one before? Any tips??

I got the meat and air thermometer recommended on here from America and even got a free pair of bear paws.... Bonus...

I intend to get her fired up and have a go next weekend but really need to get her painted this weekend so any tips are greatly appreciated.

Cheers and happy smoking