According to other builders, only the frame around the FB door gets hot enough to discolor the steel. The rest of the smoker is just warm to the touch.
If it's tourist season, how come I can't shoot 'em?
I recently completed my mini gf and took some temperature readings prior to painting, I didn't skimp anywhere on insulation and every piece of square tube is stuffed with ceramic insulation. After 4 hours at 250* Fahrenheit measured rack temperature the ash box framework reached 362* and the charcoal chute lid varied between 180* and 190* although if you allow the charcoal to run out this temp will rise because there is no charcoal left between the burning coals and chute lid.
Grandma always said "if ya can't be handsome ya better at least be handy"
I power coated mine. It is candy red over a silver viening (hammer finish). This is NOT the high temp powder coating. The powder coater was also concerned about the heat issues. I had to assure him that it was heavily insulated. I also added additional insulation around the fire box to help with possible problems.
Upon using the smoker t does get hot enough to to cause some white hazing to the coating around the fire box. However it just wipes off, so far. I did have the temp get away from me one time, I left the firebox door open too long while starting it up. It did smooth the finish around the firebox, but after wiping off the white haze the color and finish was still fine. Just smooth to the touch now. Other than that I've had no problems with the finish. I'll see how it does over time.
White hazing and ash after use.
After a wipe down with just a damp cloth.
Last edited by Richb on April 30th, 2016, 7:56 am, edited 2 times in total.
Richb
Current smokers, Mini Gravity Feed Smoker (just finished building), Cookshack electric smoker, And a Charbroil Offset Smoker.
Thanks for all your help, I will also go with the regular powder coating as my GF cooker is also well insulated,tubes and shell, although I did not add any additional insulation around the firebox and charcoal chamber, which in hind site would have been a great idea I need color....so here goes nothing,,I will let you all know how it works out, Thanks again
Richb, your smoker looks awesome,good luck and keep on cookin!!!!
If your gonna be stupid.....you better be tough!!!