Chimney Rapid Start Mod - No power needed

[wingnutt]

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.

[Tbagley]

I could see that working, needs a burn proof handle lol.

[wingnutt]

Yes, a handle is definitely needed.  This is just a prototype to see if it works.

[Cellar2ful]

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

[wingnutt]

Yeah, I tried the stacking thing.  This chimney has about 3x to 4x the effect.

[wingnutt]

Here she is with a 3/4 load and 7 min in.  Glowing and shooting flames out the top.

[JEBIV]

us boys and their toys LOL

[Skinsfan1311]

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...

[Darko]

One question though?  Is it really that important to have the coals lit in 7 minutes rather than 10 or 14?

[bamakettles]

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.

[Stoneage]

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

[Darko]

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.

[Darko]

Having said that, Damn right I'm gonna try this... Flames shooting out of a chimney.... I'm in!

[wingnutt]

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!

[HoosierKettle]

I like it. There are times it would be nice to get going quickly


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