Hi All,
For all the gadgets the get a charcoal chimney starter to work faster, I wanted one that didn't require any power or maintenance. It's a simple chimney for the chimney that takes advantage of the 'stack effect' to force more air through the coals. I can have working hot coals in 5-8 min, depending on load.
The construction is just a 24" piece of 4" round ducting and an 8" stainless bowl from Wally-world - $12 all in. Simply set it on top once your newspaper or cubes are lit.
I could see that working, needs a burn proof handle lol.
Yes, a handle is definitely needed. This is just a prototype to see if it works.
You can get the similar results stacking two Weber charcoal chimneys. Here's a link to a write up using it:
http://weberkettleclub.com/forums/index.php?topic=42794.0
Yeah, I tried the stacking thing. This chimney has about 3x to 4x the effect.
Here she is with a 3/4 load and 7 min in. Glowing and shooting flames out the top.
us boys and their toys LOL
Interesting.
Just make sure you have a safe spot to stick the chimney "chimney" when the coals are ready, and that it's not close enough to anything flammable, if it tips. That's a substantial sized piece of blazing hot metal to contend with...
One question though? Is it really that important to have the coals lit in 7 minutes rather than 10 or 14?
Quote from: Darko on February 08, 2021, 12:17:55 PM
One question though? Is it really that important to have the coals lit in 7 minutes rather than 10 or 14?
Sometimes I like to put a tumbleweed in a pile of coals in the kettle, sit back have a beer or two and watch it smolder up. Relaxing to me - maybe this is needed for colder climates though.
If you look back in my old posts theres a DIY handle kit I added to my smoker that should work for you too.
here:
http://weberkettleclub.com/forums/index.php?topic=45923.msg454673#msg454673
Quote from: bamakettles on February 08, 2021, 12:29:42 PM
Quote from: Darko on February 08, 2021, 12:17:55 PM
One question though? Is it really that important to have the coals lit in 7 minutes rather than 10 or 14?
Sometimes I like to put a tumbleweed in a pile of coals in the kettle, sit back have a beer or two and watch it smolder up. Relaxing to me - maybe this is needed for colder climates though.
Nah, I just have a third(or fourth) beer when it's cold.
Having said that, Damn right I'm gonna try this... Flames shooting out of a chimney.... I'm in!
Darko - Is it necessary to cut the time down to 5-7 min? Not always, but it is FUN! When you need it, you need it. Ran a full load of Red Oak lump charcoal and it was glowing hot at the 3 min mark!
I like it. There are times it would be nice to get going quickly
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Quote from: wingnutt on February 09, 2021, 08:34:18 AM
Darko - Is it necessary to cut the time down to 5-7 min? Not always, but it is FUN! When you need it, you need it. Ran a full load of Red Oak lump charcoal and it was glowing hot at the 3 min mark!
I agree with the FUN part.