@5280Jeff 2+2 will run just a bit higher, like 250+, which should be just fine for what you're doing.......
2+2+1 is fine too........maybe just pinch the bottom vents down a tad more......I've found that putting the wood chunks on top of the chain works pretty good.....trying to 'build' them into the chain runs more risk of creating a gap where the fire could dwell or even fizzle out....
I've gotten fine results even with 2+1+ small chips of lump sprinkled over that & wood block all along, more towards the start.....
The chain of charcoal burns along & as it gets close to the block, pre-heats it closer to actual burn temp, a lot like pre-heating splits on top of the firebox of an offset cooker.............
(clockwise, for beef)
That ran about 260f on a daisy wheel, bottoms 1/2~3/4 open, top all open not too hot of a day......