Shaping lump and lighting with MAPP gas

Justin

I would love to hear some ideas from everyone on their experience with getting a good fire going with MAPP gas.[p]What shape for the mound of lump, flat? Domed? Concave?[p]Where to light? Center only? Edges?[p]I usually have a bit of a mound shape, then light in the center and in front of the vent (so that the airflow in pulls the fire across), and the opposite side. This works fine for short cooks, but I want to be sure I get it right for a butt and about 20+ hours.[p]It would be great to share your experience![p]Justin

MickeyT

Justin,[p]Larry (GFW) is the gent who got me goin. I use it always. I just hold it on the center for 20-30 seconds. That's about it. Works great. For some reason I've got a lump now that pops like a motha when hit with Mapp gas. Just be careful.[p]mick

Fairalbion

What is MAPP gas?

fiver29

Justin,[p]I just got done cooking a 6-7 lb pork butt over the weekend and I used MAPP to light my fire. Isnt' that a song? [p]Anyway, I believe the trick to a perfect fire with longevity is to follow Elder Ward's instructions for placing the lump in the egg. My fire went for 15 hours without a hiccup.[p]Next, I had my lump horizontal with firebox and I pointed the flame directly at the middle for 20 seconds. That was it. Within 10 or 15 minutes I had a perfect fire going. And the fire burns outward over the course of the cook.[p]Compare that to lighting in 2 or 3 places around the firebox for 20 seconds each. In no time flat you'll have a blazing fire perfect for searing a steak (or anything else you plan on searing for that matter.)[p]Hope this helps.[p]I also noticed someone asked what MAPP was. Its a gas that burns hotter than propane and you can pick it up at a home depot or the like.

Bordello

fiver29,
Please note, if using mapp gas you will have to have a MAPP GAS head for the tank. Do not use a regular propane torch head with MAPP GAS. Just a safety note for anyone that might know.
Regards,
New Bob

Boccie

<p />Justin,[p]I do nothing special with the lump pile for lighting with the MAPP. I get things ready...the basics - stir lump, knock down ashes, ensure holes are clear... then use the MAPP gas on two spots. Basically 1/2 way between the very center of the lump and the outer edge is where I place the fire. The second spot being the opposite side, same distance from center. I hold the MAPP on spot for approx 10-15 seconds, aiming between several peices of lump to share the flame best as possible. Thats it. Close the lid and let it do its thing.[p]Sparks from the lump sometimes occur, they tend to fly up around your hand. I only guess its due to the moisture in the lump, not that it has much if any... but old lump does sit there for a few days at a time, so maybe thats it. The sparks do not occur all the time.

Joel Ferman

Boccie,
Neat egg cabinet.
-Joel

Boccie

Joel Ferman,[p]Thank you. We originally was going to do a built in gas grill, but then we discovered the egg. However the brick idea wouldnt leave... so there you have it. LOL[p]
[ul][li]Brick Egg Enclosure[/ul]