Another Mini Build Log

[wbegg]

That is looking awesome. And a bit out here and there is not a major. Just remember, this is a smoker not a NASA probe.
Yep, she's definitely looking sweet. Nice work.

Yeah, NASA would need a Saturn V Rocket to get this thing off the ground!

[temurf]

Sure is coming together nicely.

Almost time for some Q-View.

[wbegg]

After noticing quite a bit of void space in the FB section of the build, I thought I might weld in a shelf to the right of the door to house my ATC (heatermeter). Going for the outside shell tomorrow (finally) so thought this would be a good time to design it. Any suggestions?

[ajfoxy]

That is an extremely good idea and something I'll be building into my mini's. I intend to put an indented shelf/box shape into the skin with a couple of holes through to the cook chamber for the probes. Have not planned it in detail, but in my mind it works great (as always).

[Rodcrafter]

I can relate to that AJ, the only thing is. The process is very hard to get pictures of. lol

[wbegg]

So I've added the shelf! Should fit my ATC (heatermeter) like a charm. My idea for the inside corners is to caulk it with some JB Weld for sealing it.

Got half the skin on now, and should be close to all spot welding on the outside done by end of the weekend. Then on to skinning the doors, and welding on the hinges, and installing the hardware.

[Rodcrafter]

I bet you are getting excited!


Making memories!

[Weldun]

Don't forget your backing plates for your door latch and latch catch , I know about this from personal experience

Looking really good!

[temurf]

[wbegg]

Don't forget your backing plates for your door latch and latch catch , I know about this from personal experience

Looking really good!

serts
????? What? I'm planning on using threaded inserts (rivet Inserts) for all? Do I need a backing plate for those?

[Rodcrafter]

You will need something for them to be installed on.


Making memories!

[wbegg]

I'm so glad I decided to take a detour to put the shelf in.

[wbegg]

You will need something for them to be installed on.


Making memories!

But can't the inserts just rivet into the 16g sheet?

[Weldun]

I used rivet inserts as well but just felt that having the slam latch mounted to the thin door skin may not hold up a lifetime, so l mounted a piece of 1/4"x 4" horizontally in the door and where the catch mounts above the air inlet. For no more than it took me to do it I felt it was good insurance, maybe someone who has built one without the backing plates will chime in and let us know how theirs worked out, it may be fine.

[wbegg]

I used rivet inserts as well but just felt that having the slam latch mounted to the thin door skin may not hold up a lifetime, so l mounted a piece of 1/4"x 4" horizontally in the door and where the catch mounts above the air inlet. For no more than it took me to do it I felt it was good insurance, maybe someone who has built one without the backing plates will chime in and let us know how theirs worked out, it may be fine.

Good stuff! I'll do it as well just for insurance. THANKS!

[Weldun]

I forgot to put one in my door when I built mine and had to cut open the inside of my door to put it in and then make a screw on panel.

[ajfoxy]

+1 for the backing plate. It is a good thing to have.

I do like your shelf. I think I might put that with all the other plundered good ideas I'm keeping for my build.

[Squiggle]

Looks awesome dude!

[BBQChris]

How think should the backing plate be?

Sent from my GT-I9500 using Tapatalk

[Weldun]

I used 1/4" x 4" flat bar, I wouldn't go much less than 3/16" thick and however wide you need to accommodate the width of the hole pattern on your latch mechanism.

[wbegg]

I'm using the large Kason slam latch. Any idea on what size screw to use to attach?

[wbegg]

Got 4 sides insulated and skinned. Thought I'd weld the top door before skin, as it made it a bit easier to weld.

As much time as I spent welding, grinding, re-welding spots, grinding, re-welding spots, on this little door, I can tell it's gonna be a bear to get the rest done (if I want it perfect). Will Bondo work?

[wbegg]

Crap! I welded the hinges so I can't remove the top door. Oh well, gonna be a bitch painting, but I'll deal with it.

Lesson learned!

[Weldun]

I'm using the large Kason slam latch. Any idea on what size screw to use to attach?

I used the same latch and used 1/4-20 countersunk Phillips head screws

[Squiggle]

Don't worry, you won't want to paint inside the smoker, so just mask the top of the chute & the inside surface of the door & paint the rest. I did this on mine, & it's not rocket appliances!