Can't get 700 deg

Oledog

:unsure: I can't seem to get the egg to 700 deg; what could I be missing? The highest I have been able to reach is 650 deg.

stike

what's your set up?
are you using the proverbial "handful of lump"?

the only things that make a hot fire are:
-air (airflow top and bottom)
-enough fuel
-time

the hottest fire is had by stirring the lump to rid it of ash, or using fresh lump. lighter lump (like cowboy) lights a bit faster, and burns quicker, but any lump will hit nuke temps

airflow needs to be unrestricted. totally open lower vent, daisy wheel OFF, not simply wide open.

...after that, it's just waiting. maybe 15 minutes.
make sure your inner fire box opening is aligned with the lower vent. after starter cubes burn off (or any other starter stuff), shut the dome to establish the draft.

Oledog

Hey thanks for the tips; I do use the Cowboy charcoal and will check out the level I am using.

Thanks for the feed back;
Oledog

onelikearock

I seared some steaks last night and in 10 min. with both bottom and top open all the way.....the temp gauge pegged past 750 degrees. I had leftover lump in the fire box which I moved all around to make sure the air holes were clear. I thought the darn thing was going to take off.