Inherited smoker (came with house) cleaning

[Greg82]

I just bought a new house and it came with a homemade RF smoker. I was wondering if there was a proven way to clean under welded heat baffle without having to cut side off. There are leaves/rust/no telling what else inside that thing. Thanks guys.

[Rodcrafter]

I would think you can get some access through the fire box if it is an offset RF. Let us see a picture maybe we can help.


Welcome to the crew!!!!

[Greg82]

Thanks rodcrafter, I will try to post a pic in the morning.

[Rodcrafter]

Cool


Making memories.

[Clover Ridge Smokers]

can't wait to see the pics

[Mankussm]

Looking forward to the photos!

[Greg82]

I know it still needs a lot of work, but I can't figure out any way to clean the bottom except to cut it out, clean it then bolt a new piece back. Any different suggestions?

[Rodcrafter]

I would say just reach in the FB and spray through the throat opening with a garden hose. Then burn a real good fire when you re-season it after your modifications. That part of the cooker stays pretty dirty with ash and smoke remains. So don't get too concerned about it.


Making memories.

[DUAYNE B]

Heck, the house was a bonus, not every day you buy a house and get a rf smoker with it. a good fire and some cleanup, see how it performs, then season and get cookin.

[Greg82]

Was thinking the rust/ buildup may leave a foul taste when I cooked if I just washed it out but I will definitely give that a shot. Sounds a lot easier than what I was thinking.

[The Czar]

Like Rodcrafter said....try cleaning and see what happens!!!

[Puff]

Sounds like great advice and a nice good burn will set it up for some serious testing. Monitor temps and recovery ... Hot spots any parts you think might affect your cooking. The guys here have answers

[Tom_Heath]

I say burn it out!!! If its alive it will run out on its own. If its dead......well you'll know.

As far as any rust goes. Get it fired up and throw some fat trimmings on it. A little good fat goes along ways to get a good season back in an old cooker.