Ran some charcoal through the Brinkmann I picked up last night to see how it handled and to get rid of any oil or whatnot from the manufacturing.
The only mod I did was put another grate in the bottom to raise the charcoal slightly. It tended to run pretty hot - 300* - for much of the first couple hours. I may look at something to limit the air flow in the bottom intake.
Toward the end I threw on a mesquite chunk and some jalapenos stuffed with a cream cheese/cheddar mixture wrapped in bacon.
I think these alone are worth the cost of the smoker.
Might try some chicken while I'm working in the yard tomorrow.
