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Ugly Drum Smoker - Need Help

Bartkowiakj

Knows what a fatty is.
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Help I just picked up 2 reconditioned open top food quality drums and want to make a 2 tier UDS with a rotissierre and my wife is already wondering what do I need to do this for---why not go out and just buy a Weber? I have searched all over for UDS plans and am thoroughly confused. I know I need a place for charcoal but what is the best type to fabricate and long lasting as I am not a welder. Also, what is the preferred height of the cooking grates from the fire pit. What about vents? All these stupid questions. Where can I get some good plans? I hope someone can direct me to a good web site or put me in contact with someone.
I have recently retired and am looking to do some BBQ since I was kicked out of the kitchen when my wife finished chemo.
 
The huge UDS thread is the best way to learn how to build one. Read through the entire thread, it'll take forever, but it's worth it.
 
UDS' are sole to build and operate. I was nervous about building mine, now
I look back and wonder why I was so stressed. Seriously, read that thread and you'll have more UDS knowledge than you thought was possible.

Matt
 
Ae you talking UDS (Ugly Drum Smoker) or DBS (Double Barrel Smoker)? A UDS is an upright barrel, like these I built...

smokers009.jpg


Sounds like you are describing a DBS. If so, look at this link for how mine was done and a parts list. No welding required.
http://www.smoked-meat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2255

Here's one a guy built off my post...
http://www.smoked-meat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5328
 
As has been mentioned start in the UDS thread. You can move pretty fast thru a lot of the posts.
This is one of of those every man/woman's UDS will be slightly different.
All depending on needs and wants. The basics are the basics, there are a couple of manufactured UDS and you should be able to get an Idea from their web sites. I really don't know of any plans as such other then back in the day. In the POP MECH magazines and the handyman ones.

I don't think, you can find a better forum than this one for answers to any of your questions.

Since every ones skill sets are different, my instructions might not be usable to you! Welders, plasma, torches lifting devices and power tools from here to over there. So best thing is since you are retired.

Do what I do spend some time on this site and cover the UDS thread and it won't be a while before you will pick up the Lingo, and the subtle differences between an this one and that one, and the one over there with 6 wheels, running water, a towel rack and a hot tub up near the tongue :becky:

It is confusing, and some what intimidating, and I have built a couple of different drum types and a large portable on a trailer for my son.
DSCF9777.jpg


Being retired I know the feeling, but it will pass as the honey do's quickly fill up your time :doh:
Relax and enjoy the forum, smoke is slow!
 
Damn, can't rember his name, guy here in Missouri built a double height drum smoker with doors hung meat. Also built a smoker out of a Fireproof chemical cabinet.
 
Uds

Based on what I have seen so far I believe I am looking at building an upright UDS (single drum) but with 2 cooking racks rather than 1. I also need some help in getting directions for building the firepit. Thanks
 
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