First time using a dutch oven Questions.....

I use cast quite a bit, but not all in my egg. I use the grate with red brick holding the pot up higher. I do not use the place setter for cast cooking. Depending on what I am cooking and what stage of the cook determines the temp. For searing before making soup and stew, I like to use 500 or so in the cast, or over open coals. After that , I like 250 for finishing, it produces the best slow simmer in cast for me. I use a 4qt dutch oven and an 8 qt soup pot. Either has plenty of room left over on my big.