Smoker Hardware

A big challenge for this project is building the hardware for the smoker firebox. I needs to be easy to attach and remove, have a tight fit to avoid air leaks, and it needs to withstand high temperatures. At Home Depot I found Type B Gas vent fittings that fit the bill perfectly. Unlike regular duct fittings, these parts are tightly constructed and are double-walled. I also picked up an end cap for mounting the fan that fits snugly into the elbow.



To mount the unit to the grill, I made use of the handle just above the damper opening. A modified conduit clip hooks over the handle and is clamped down with a wing nut. Since the clip is on the top of the unit, it's weight naturally presses against the firebox to form a good seal.



The fan unit was bolted to the end cap above a 2" hole, and I added a barrel-type power connector for connecting it to the controller.



On hot, calm days, the smoker can easily maintain temperature with the damper fully closed, so I also made a simple damper for the fan. It opens to allow air flow when the fan is running, and closes when the fan is off to limit air to the fire.





The fan assembly is mounted in the bottom of the elbow to keep it far away from the intense heat of the firebox.