I have watched this video over and over. So for us Australians bunnings has the Char-griller Deluxe $200 and the fire box is sold separately $130. Smoker gasket lava lock on EBay cheapest I found it for $54, purchase 2 rolls for this method I used just under 1 and a half rolls of gasket used on mine. RTV 650 Silicone is available at supercheap auto it is a head Silicone gasket used on cars $25 This absolutely works a treat sealing the entire smoker, mine cooks like the grand champ now which is $1100. Find a old grill grate cut it down to fit the fire box is a must. Tony Tone you are the man🤴🍻💯
I have the same offset as you and sealed it up in the same areas you did.. Wow what a difference. I burned probably close to half as much wood as before I sealed it for some ribs this past weekend for a 4 hour smoke. I am not joking. I actually had a harder time keeping the heat down. I was shooting for around 250-275. I was more like 270-300 average. thanks so much for this video.
Eric! I love stories like yours! Thank you so much for sharing. It's crazy the difference in heat retention and air flow it makes. I run a tiny pile of burning wood and the result is off the chart. I'm glad you're having the same result. Smoke on my friend!
I just watched your video on applying the Lava Rock and the smokers gasket. I'm so glad you made this video. Because I just bought a Royal Gourmey BBQ WITH THE SMOKER. AS I WAS PUTTING IT TOGETHER I WAS WONDERING WHY IT DID NOT COME WITH SOME GASKET TAPE. AND ALOT OF REVIEW S SAID THE SMOKER WAS NOTTO GOOD BE CAUSE IT LEAKS TO MUCH SMOKE. I NEVER KNEW YOU COULD BUT STUFF TO FIX THAT PROBLEM. NOW I KNOW. IM GOING TO GET THIS STUFF AND I KNOW MY BBQ SMOKER WILL WORK AWESOME. THANKS SO MUCH.😊
That's awesome! Thank you so much for sharing! There are a lot of very affordable offset smokers on the market and biggest drawback is usually the smoke leak. It makes it really difficult to cook anything because you'll have crazy temp swings. Use that gasket and RTV to prevent smoke from leaking out from under the lid and it makes a world of difference. Also, you might check out a few of my other videos on using an offset smoker. If you're burning wood, the size of the split also plays an important role. Thanks for watching and please let me know how it goes. Smoke on!
Yes Sir ! A friend of mine from Oklahoma told me you dont have to have a 2,000 $ grill or smoker cause it all comes down to the cook. Clearly you have masterd the art of barbeque and thank you for your tips and skill of how to get the job done. I see you upgraded to the XD. Holy smokes
Thank you! That really appreciate that comment. Yes, it's really just about mastering the use of your tools. I'm loving the XD. Still relatively affordable and really great to work with. Excellent value in my opinion. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for sharing this wealth of information, Tony! I've had my CharGriller for eight years now, and I was ready to pull the trigger on a $2,000 1/4-inch thick steel smoker to take my smokin' to another level. I'll re-purchase another CharGriller and make the necessary modifications and roll with that. Thanks again, Champ!
I just received a Char-Griller Smokin Bandit and want to get it sealed up as I put it together. Really enjoying your videos. Best videos I have found anywhere on UA-cam about the Char-Griller. Thanks a bunch.
Thanks for this detailed video. You're saving people a few thousand dollars. Before your video I was leaning towards spending a the cash on an expensive smoker. Thanks again
Hi Alej! Thank you! Sure, expensive offsets are great, but I think most people have more important things to spend the bulk of their hard earned cash on. I love that you can take a decent piece of equipment like the Smokin Champ and turn it into something that performs like one of the expensive rigs. Thanks for watching and I appreciate your comment!
I just moved! My new backyard is bigger but it's a lot different. I've got a lot of work to do to it. New videos coming soon. Let me know what you think. Thanks again!
Presentation 💯👍🏾 haven't sealed my smoker yet, but I'm doin' what "Tony" say's, my wife was washing dishes and was sold, and she doesn't Grill, Smoke oR nothing like that #goodstuff
Awesome! Thank you Rufus! I've been out of commission for several weeks because I moved and work has been CRAZY! I appreciate you! Did you seal it up? I'd love to know. Thanks again!
After adding the gasket around the grill, do you have to fire it up to make sure the gasket stays on ? I just bought some lava lock, but no rtb. Should I wait to get the rtb or just fling it?
Good question! Because these units aren't constructed to super precise standards, each one is a little different. My process was to add the gasket, then get some chunks going and choke the air down to create some dirty smoke so you can easily see where smoke is escaping too easily. If you don't mind working around the smoke, you can usually add or make adjustments while you've got the fire going. I applied the RTV onto areas where the gasket wasn't working as well. By adding a couple of thick beads to the sides of the cooking chamber, it filled the gap where the gasket kept falling off. You just have to let the RTV fully cure before closing the lid, typically a day or two. Does that help?
@TonyToneBBQ yes sir it helps out a lot ! Thanks for the tips and the great info. I will purchase the RTV and go from their! Love the videos. By the way, hopefully, I can smoke some meat by next weekend ! !
I have the same smoker and I’ve had it for a few years. Just did a clean and reseal with gasket sealer, I had to get big pliers to bend the lid back into the chamber since the cheaper metal has warped over time. Your method of sealing works great thanks for the vid and detailed explanation.
Thanks Tony, I used your link. Made it easy to order. Just assembled my new offset. I'll get er sealed up tight. BTW, your neighbors dog needs some training up. Some folks shouldn't own dogs if they refuse to train em.
You're welcome! And congratulations on that new offset! Good times ahead for sure. Sad story about the dog. She was a rescue, neighbors are really good people and worked with her a lot, but she had serious anxiety issues if left alone, probably stemming from previous owners. Unfortunately, they didn't have her long. She passed away just from a disease. She was a sweet dog though.
First you do great instructional videos with all the details. Second I have your same model Char griller offset except the newer versions have the legs directly attached to the barrel rather than the "cart" type arrangement. I'm a long time griller/smoker and although people can spend their money as they wish $2000-3000 backyard cooker is a waste. These cheaper offsets work great and turn out fantastic food....if you know how to use them. I have not done any mods and yes mine leaks a bit. But for my use I don't really care. We smoke about once a month...small cuts of meat....ribs, small roasts, fish, mac and cheese, where leaking makes little difference. If I was doing large briskets or pork butt I'd be more concerned. We do far more hot cooks....steaks etc than smoking. So this level cooker is perfect. I may seal it at some point....we'll see. Thanks !
I really appreciate your feedback! What I really like is that you know your rig and the needs of your cooking style. The point is do enjoy what you do! Reading your comment made me HUNGRY! I also agree with you on the spend. I've been considering an offset that's in the 3K range, but only because I do a lot of really large parties and I always run out of room. I mostly cook on a Char-Griller Grand Champ XD, which is about as big as affordable offsets gets. I've been good about working around it and using multiple rigs though. Thanks for watching and smoke on, my friend!
@@TonyToneBBQ Thanks for your response! Yep if you have large groups and do that kind of entertaining the more expensive cooker could make sense. If I may ask....what do you get...improvements/upgrades... with a $3000 rig vs the CHAR-GRILLER? And what brand are you looking at ?
Great video. Just bought a grill like this. After i get it burned in i will seal just like you did. Before i saw your video i was wondering how to seal. Thanks
Very helpful Tony! I have an old Charbroiler smoker (with the wood handles :)), looks just like yours. I was about to chuck it and spend some $$$ for an Oklahoma Joe's. But I'm going to do the seals and other mods on ol' CharBroiler and see what happens. Thanks again..
Awesome Russell! Yeah, as long as there's no rust holes, no reason why you can't spend a few bucks to seal it up and it should work great! Good luck with everything and have fun!
Hey Tony, I also have the same Smokin Champ. I'm about to season my grill/ smoker. In the directions it says to brush/apply vegetable or flax oil and take it up to 400 5 times for 20 minutes each time. Did you do this as well? I know you did say in the beginning that you burned off the factory oils. As a newbie, I'm just wondering what is best. 😮😊
5 times??? Oh, wow! That sounds crazy! No, I only did it once. Never needed to do it again and you really shouldn't need to do it again if you use it properly. Maybe be a little extra careful and very damp climates. Check my channel if you have a chance. I posted a video on how to season and offset smoker. It's a Char-Griller Grand Champ XD, so might not be the same one you're working on but pretty much the same process. Hope that helps and congrats on the new offset! Fun times ahead!
Isn't this essentially a Smoking Pro, with the main difference is the shelves? Mine looks just like it. Great ideas that I am now incorporating it into it since I just installed the charcoal basket and also removed and RTV'd the exhaust. Next up, the gasket.
Oh yes! I just replied to your other comment. You are correct. The pro is almost identical to the champ. I'm really glad the gasket modifications have worked so well for you! Thanks!
Thanks for making this video! My Kingsford Maverick barrel grill is basically an exact copy of this Char-Griller barrel grill. I added a modified Char-Griller side fire box for offset smoking capabilities and will be doing these sealing modifications. Thanks again! 🥩🍖🍗🔥
I just picked one of these smokers up for 5 bucks on marketplace. I ordered some felt gasket on Amazon that I need to put on. Didn't think of the RTV. Might have to get a tube.
Thanks for this vid. I just bought my first grill for 96 dollars at walmart. The first thing i noticed was smoke leaking out everywhere. Hopefully i can seal it like you did. Thanks!
Congrats on your new smoker! I hope it works out for you. Doesn't need to be perfect, but the less smoke leaking the better. You might need to double up layers in some areas. Keep me posted! Thanks!
I sealed the top lid with no leaking. Just used the gaskets, haven't needed the paste liquid tube yet. Now I just have to seal the front door, which will be a little more detail work. Lavalock was a great recommendation. I feel like I turned a cheap starter grill into something much better. In case you were wondering, I got the ,"Expert Grill 24 inch." That's the brand name I guess, cheap and works
Lava Lock is some good stuff...used it on some of my grills. Also to make it look like a professional job, spray the strips with black high temp grill spray paint. Let them dry.. then apply the strips. Looks superb!
I have this same smoker. This is my first offset. Same issue leaking from all around. Tried the lava lock strip but not gel that you used but i still have leaking. Got a little discouraged bc i was having to constantly babysit it bc i had so much difficulty running constant temps. Going to order some lavalock strips And try the double/triple seal in the leaking areas. Curious to know, since ive cooked on it about 8-10 times. Do i have to strip the old gasket off? Or can i just layer on top the current used strips of lavalock?
Hi! Thanks for watching and that's a really good question! I have layered new gasket on top of old gasket and it has worked just fine. I would give it a shot. You might also try adding in some of the liquid RTV gasket. Sometimes you got to get a little creative with these things. Doesn't hurt to try! I hope that helps! Let me know how it goes.
I have a Char Griller too. Gonna try some of this. But look into small angle iron or aluminum at least on the ends to make a better and easier sealing surface
Pat, I like where you're going with that. I had the same idea but ended up going with the smoker gasket and RTV because it was simple, quick, easy and low cost. Let me know what you end up doing. I'd be very interested to know! Thanks for watching and I appreciate your comment!
I used flat stock on the sides and front and gasket on the rear so as not to cause ot much issue opening. Next i welded 3 inch pipe to extend my chimney and used so more pipe to lower to pipe to grate level
@@TonyToneBBQ yessir butt it right up against to lip and you could in theory weld it to the top lid or to the bottom portion so it basically sits on it... also to correct airflow issues extend the stack with a 3 inch pipe I extended 15 inches
I did exactly this with a comparable grill, it still leaked smoke, unfortunately. However, I'm really happy it's working out for you! I like the trick of doubling up on the gasket...maybe that would have worked with that other grill I had but eventually I got rid of the smoker/grill and purchased a Oklahoma Joe Highland, I already owned a Ok Joe Bronco. If you're looking for a more solid smoker and don't mind spending another $200 AND don't want to go through the mods on a less expensive grill. Nonetheless, great work on sealing this grill, bravo!
That OKJ Highland is a great offset! I agree, it's worth spending more for better quality when you can. I'll be adding another rig to my collection soon. I have an Oklahoma Joe Judge so I will be considering the Highland or Longhorn. Thanks for your comments Vincent! Smoke on!
I too have a char griller (COS) that long screw driver tip sweeping the ash side to side im trying that next time.Hard to do without a big door to open up. I always pickup a lot of info from your videos keep them coming. You can tell you’re getting more comfortable the more you do. 👍🏻
Thanks Nick! I appreciate that a lot! I rewatch my videos and try to look for ways to improve the presentation. Your comments help! Thanks for watching
Just sealed up my smoker followed almost exactly how you laid it out can’t wait for my next cook. Thx Tony your videos are very informative it made it easy for me just the way I like it. 😁
Thank you for the great video. I have a Chargriller Duo and just added the smoke box. I could not figure out how to seal the odd sized gaps in the side of the cooking chamber. I'm going to try your double gasket idea!
On the back. It’s the lid that is buckled in the middle. So why not use a rubber mallet to tap it in so you don’t have to use as much of the gasket. As well as the sides with the same issue? This is a question. And if you can show this type of clip. It would also be as helpful. Just my thoughts. But I like the way it seals. Ordering some lava rock sealer immediately. Thank you.
Hey Scott! I moved a couple of months ago and I've been working on setting up a new outdoor cooking pad, and i just finished it today! Thanks for asking! I made this video for you. ua-cam.com/users/shorts3Ax2cg4SX3s?feature=share
Hey Rich! Congrats on your new vertical offset! I'm glad my video is helpful. You're going to have a lot of good time making delicious barbeque. Check out the video I just uploaded on Prime Rib. Might be a good option for an awesome Christmas dinner. Smoke on! ua-cam.com/video/rsrDAhQjUFQ/v-deo.html
I know this is an old video but I have the exact same one of these all the way in Australia. Did you have a problem also with the firebox the slide out part not sealing up too?
Awesome! It's great to hear from you, friend from Australia. Yes, I still have this smoker and the drawer does not seal against the side of the firebox however, that hasn't been a problem. As long as the main cooking chamber lid is sealed up as much as possible, you can even leave that drawer sticking out a half an inch and it doesn't cause a problem. That's because air will be drawn in from that point and it should be pulled upward into the main cooking chamber and will escape out through the exhaust chimney. Smoke should never run the other way. Just seal up that main cooking chamber lid and you should be good to go. Thanks for watching!
Hey brother!!! Love the videos, I tried doing this and the right side of my lid was lifted up pretty high of the gasket but the other side was good. I think it's warped or bent a little, Any tips?
You're welcome and I hope it goes well for you! How about those two tiny holes, I didn't feel like it was necessary. It just depends on how perfect you want it to be, but I didn't feel like those two tiny holes would make much of a difference. Thanks for watching!
My gasket didn't worked, damn thing fell off after the second cool, yes I cleaned the surface before sticking the gasket to it. So can I use the lava lock on the sticky part of the gasket so it attaches better?
I used the silicone to build up a thick bead along the right side and the left side where the lid meets the body. There's a part in the video where I show you what I'm talking about but basically I installed a strip of gasket, but it wasn't quite thick enough to do the job so I put a thick bead of silicone on top of the gasket and that did the trick.
Hi! I’m totally new to bbq. My dad had a black charcoal Weber when I was a kid. Now I just bought my first house and I want a charcoal bbq grill that also has a smoker so I can smoke fish, beef jerky, etc but also grill when I wanna grill. I want to buy something cheaper and fix it up just like this video. Is the one in this video a grill also? Any suggestions for a charcoal grill/smoker combo that’s on the cheaper side. I don’t wanna go over $400 if possible
Hi Ms. Angela! Thanks for watching and thank you for your question! Yes, the Char-Griller Smokin Champ can be used as a charcoal grill. There is a removable, adjustable height charcoal grate in the main cooking chamber specifically for this purpose. I've used it for direct heat grilling many times and it works great. If you're looking for something on the lower end of the price scale, but still good quality, I'd recommend the Champ. I purchased mine at Home Depot for $200. I think the price has gone up to $250 since then but still a great value. Good luck and have fun!
Have you ever owned a charbroil brand offset smoker? Walmart has a 1280 sq in smoker with the smoker box for $129. Watching videos of it. It looks like it's built poorly
I have not, but you should probably go with your gut. I'd look it over very carefully, check it's weight, check if it's loose and rattling. Also check out other brands and note the differences. Any Home Depot stores near you?
Ask and Ye shall receive! Yes, it was leaking from all around the lid. Thanks for your comment! Check back in a few minutes. I just shot a new short video showing the results. Should be ready any minute. Thanks for watching!
Holy cow could you stop talking so much about personal stuff and get to the point of what you used and how you did it. I hate when people drag out the video with useless BS. I bought one just like that on sale for $57.00 @ Kroger grocery store. and I am going to get the fire box soon. I don't use a lot of charcoal and more wood and the smoker works great, I would just wish it sealed better.
Thanks for the comment Richard! Yes, I'll keep that in mide for sure. In fact, this video is about 2 years old now and getting right to the point is something I have been working on. Take care and I hope you succeed in sealing that smoker up. It makes a big difference.
I have watched this video over and over.
So for us Australians bunnings has the Char-griller Deluxe $200 and the fire box is sold separately $130.
Smoker gasket lava lock on EBay cheapest I found it for $54, purchase 2 rolls for this method I used just under 1 and a half rolls of gasket used on mine.
RTV 650 Silicone is available at supercheap auto it is a head Silicone gasket used on cars $25
This absolutely works a treat sealing the entire smoker, mine cooks like the grand champ now which is $1100.
Find a old grill grate cut it down to fit the fire box is a must.
Tony Tone you are the man🤴🍻💯
I hope you're doing well my friend! Thanks that all the great feedback!
I have the same offset as you and sealed it up in the same areas you did.. Wow what a difference. I burned probably close to half as much wood as before I sealed it for some ribs this past weekend for a 4 hour smoke. I am not joking. I actually had a harder time keeping the heat down. I was shooting for around 250-275. I was more like 270-300 average. thanks so much for this video.
Eric! I love stories like yours! Thank you so much for sharing. It's crazy the difference in heat retention and air flow it makes. I run a tiny pile of burning wood and the result is off the chart. I'm glad you're having the same result. Smoke on my friend!
I just watched your video on applying the Lava Rock and the smokers gasket. I'm so glad you made this video. Because I just bought a Royal Gourmey BBQ WITH THE SMOKER. AS I WAS PUTTING IT TOGETHER I WAS WONDERING WHY IT DID NOT COME WITH SOME GASKET TAPE. AND ALOT OF REVIEW S SAID THE SMOKER WAS NOTTO GOOD BE CAUSE IT LEAKS TO MUCH SMOKE. I NEVER KNEW YOU COULD BUT STUFF TO FIX THAT PROBLEM. NOW I KNOW. IM GOING TO GET THIS STUFF AND I KNOW MY BBQ SMOKER WILL WORK AWESOME. THANKS SO MUCH.😊
That's awesome! Thank you so much for sharing! There are a lot of very affordable offset smokers on the market and biggest drawback is usually the smoke leak. It makes it really difficult to cook anything because you'll have crazy temp swings. Use that gasket and RTV to prevent smoke from leaking out from under the lid and it makes a world of difference. Also, you might check out a few of my other videos on using an offset smoker. If you're burning wood, the size of the split also plays an important role. Thanks for watching and please let me know how it goes. Smoke on!
Yes Sir ! A friend of mine from Oklahoma told me you dont have to have a 2,000 $ grill or smoker cause it all comes down to the cook. Clearly you have masterd the art of barbeque and thank you for your tips and skill of how to get the job done. I see you upgraded to the XD. Holy smokes
Thank you! That really appreciate that comment. Yes, it's really just about mastering the use of your tools. I'm loving the XD. Still relatively affordable and really great to work with. Excellent value in my opinion. Thanks for watching!
Best video I've seen on the subject. I'm really enjoying your content. Keep it coming.😊
I appreciate that! Thank you! I've got more videos coming soon. Thanks for watching!
You’re the man!! Helped out alot ! Especially the back area. Had a huge gap. Grill up!
I'm glad to hear that my friend! Thank you!
Thanks for sharing this wealth of information, Tony! I've had my CharGriller for eight years now, and I was ready to pull the trigger on a $2,000 1/4-inch thick steel smoker to take my smokin' to another level. I'll re-purchase another CharGriller and make the necessary modifications and roll with that. Thanks again, Champ!
I just received a Char-Griller Smokin Bandit and want to get it sealed up as I put it together. Really enjoying your videos. Best videos I have found anywhere on UA-cam about the Char-Griller. Thanks a bunch.
Thank you! Congrats on your new Char-Griller Smokin Bandit and welcome to the world of smoked awesomeness.
Thanks for this detailed video. You're saving people a few thousand dollars. Before your video I was leaning towards spending a the cash on an expensive smoker. Thanks again
Hi Alej! Thank you! Sure, expensive offsets are great, but I think most people have more important things to spend the bulk of their hard earned cash on. I love that you can take a decent piece of equipment like the Smokin Champ and turn it into something that performs like one of the expensive rigs. Thanks for watching and I appreciate your comment!
I love your backyard also, very chill!!
I just moved! My new backyard is bigger but it's a lot different. I've got a lot of work to do to it. New videos coming soon. Let me know what you think. Thanks again!
Presentation 💯👍🏾 haven't sealed my smoker yet, but I'm doin' what "Tony" say's, my wife was washing dishes and was sold, and she doesn't Grill, Smoke oR nothing like that #goodstuff
Awesome! Thank you Rufus! I've been out of commission for several weeks because I moved and work has been CRAZY! I appreciate you! Did you seal it up? I'd love to know. Thanks again!
After adding the gasket around the grill, do you have to fire it up to make sure the gasket stays on ? I just bought some lava lock, but no rtb. Should I wait to get the rtb or just fling it?
Good question! Because these units aren't constructed to super precise standards, each one is a little different. My process was to add the gasket, then get some chunks going and choke the air down to create some dirty smoke so you can easily see where smoke is escaping too easily. If you don't mind working around the smoke, you can usually add or make adjustments while you've got the fire going. I applied the RTV onto areas where the gasket wasn't working as well. By adding a couple of thick beads to the sides of the cooking chamber, it filled the gap where the gasket kept falling off. You just have to let the RTV fully cure before closing the lid, typically a day or two. Does that help?
@TonyToneBBQ yes sir it helps out a lot ! Thanks for the tips and the great info. I will purchase the RTV and go from their! Love the videos. By the way, hopefully, I can smoke some meat by next weekend ! !
@@jchuck8601 awesome! You're welcome! I hope it works out. If you get a chance, keep me posted on how things go. Thanks!
I have the same smoker and I’ve had it for a few years. Just did a clean and reseal with gasket sealer, I had to get big pliers to bend the lid back into the chamber since the cheaper metal has warped over time. Your method of sealing works great thanks for the vid and detailed explanation.
Awesome! You're welcome! I'm glad it worked out for you. I appreciate your comment and thanks for watching!
Thanks Tony, I used your link. Made it easy to order. Just assembled my new offset. I'll get er sealed up tight. BTW, your neighbors dog needs some training up. Some folks shouldn't own dogs if they refuse to train em.
You're welcome! And congratulations on that new offset! Good times ahead for sure. Sad story about the dog. She was a rescue, neighbors are really good people and worked with her a lot, but she had serious anxiety issues if left alone, probably stemming from previous owners. Unfortunately, they didn't have her long. She passed away just from a disease. She was a sweet dog though.
I just bought the gasket and seal for my old FB market place offset and it sealed it up a LOT better.
Awesome! Glad to hear that! Thank you!
First you do great instructional videos with all the details. Second I have your same model Char griller offset except the newer versions have the legs directly attached to the barrel rather than the "cart" type arrangement. I'm a long time griller/smoker and although people can spend their money as they wish $2000-3000 backyard cooker is a waste. These cheaper offsets work great and turn out fantastic food....if you know how to use them. I have not done any mods and yes mine leaks a bit. But for my use I don't really care. We smoke about once a month...small cuts of meat....ribs, small roasts, fish, mac and cheese, where leaking makes little difference. If I was doing large briskets or pork butt I'd be more concerned. We do far more hot cooks....steaks etc than smoking. So this level cooker is perfect. I may seal it at some point....we'll see. Thanks !
I really appreciate your feedback! What I really like is that you know your rig and the needs of your cooking style. The point is do enjoy what you do! Reading your comment made me HUNGRY! I also agree with you on the spend. I've been considering an offset that's in the 3K range, but only because I do a lot of really large parties and I always run out of room. I mostly cook on a Char-Griller Grand Champ XD, which is about as big as affordable offsets gets. I've been good about working around it and using multiple rigs though. Thanks for watching and smoke on, my friend!
@@TonyToneBBQ Thanks for your response! Yep if you have large groups and do that kind of entertaining the more expensive cooker could make sense. If I may ask....what do you get...improvements/upgrades... with a $3000 rig vs the CHAR-GRILLER? And what brand are you looking at ?
Excellent detailed video. Thank you for taking the time! I just got a Smokin Champ and this gives great insight. Appreciate it!
You're welcome and congrats on your new Smokin Champ Bill! Thanks for watching!
Fantastic video, big fan of your content, so thanks a bunch and keep on grillin.
Thanks! I appreciate that! Thanks for watching!
Bought mine used back in 2020 brought it back from the dead I'm going to be modding it next after seeing this video thanks for the amazing post
That's awesome! I'm really glad you found my video useful. Thanks for your comment!
@@TonyToneBBQ Your very welcome
Great video. Just bought a grill like this. After i get it burned in i will seal just like you did. Before i saw your video i was wondering how to seal. Thanks
Very helpful Tony! I have an old Charbroiler smoker (with the wood handles :)), looks just like yours. I was about to chuck it and spend some $$$ for an Oklahoma Joe's. But I'm going to do the seals and other mods on ol' CharBroiler and see what happens. Thanks again..
Awesome Russell! Yeah, as long as there's no rust holes, no reason why you can't spend a few bucks to seal it up and it should work great! Good luck with everything and have fun!
Hey Tony, I also have the same Smokin Champ. I'm about to season my grill/ smoker. In the directions it says to brush/apply vegetable or flax oil and take it up to 400 5 times for 20 minutes each time. Did you do this as well? I know you did say in the beginning that you burned off the factory oils. As a newbie, I'm just wondering what is best. 😮😊
5 times??? Oh, wow! That sounds crazy! No, I only did it once. Never needed to do it again and you really shouldn't need to do it again if you use it properly. Maybe be a little extra careful and very damp climates. Check my channel if you have a chance. I posted a video on how to season and offset smoker. It's a Char-Griller Grand Champ XD, so might not be the same one you're working on but pretty much the same process. Hope that helps and congrats on the new offset! Fun times ahead!
Isn't this essentially a Smoking Pro, with the main difference is the shelves? Mine looks just like it. Great ideas that I am now incorporating it into it since I just installed the charcoal basket and also removed and RTV'd the exhaust. Next up, the gasket.
Oh yes! I just replied to your other comment. You are correct. The pro is almost identical to the champ. I'm really glad the gasket modifications have worked so well for you! Thanks!
Thanks for making this video! My Kingsford Maverick barrel grill is basically an exact copy of this Char-Griller barrel grill. I added a modified Char-Griller side fire box for offset smoking capabilities and will be doing these sealing modifications. Thanks again! 🥩🍖🍗🔥
That sounds awesome! Sounds good! Keep me posted. I'd like to hear how it works out for you. Thanks for watching!
I just picked one of these smokers up for 5 bucks on marketplace. I ordered some felt gasket on Amazon that I need to put on. Didn't think of the RTV. Might have to get a tube.
Thanks for this vid. I just bought my first grill for 96 dollars at walmart. The first thing i noticed was smoke leaking out everywhere. Hopefully i can seal it like you did. Thanks!
Congrats on your new smoker! I hope it works out for you. Doesn't need to be perfect, but the less smoke leaking the better. You might need to double up layers in some areas. Keep me posted! Thanks!
I sealed the top lid with no leaking. Just used the gaskets, haven't needed the paste liquid tube yet. Now I just have to seal the front door, which will be a little more detail work. Lavalock was a great recommendation. I feel like I turned a cheap starter grill into something much better. In case you were wondering, I got the ,"Expert Grill 24 inch." That's the brand name I guess, cheap and works
@@heli0s2003 awesome! I'm glad to hear it worked out! Thank you!
Lava Lock is some good stuff...used it on some of my grills. Also to make it look like a professional job, spray the strips with black high temp grill spray paint. Let them dry.. then apply the strips. Looks superb!
Great tip! Thanks! I appreciate your comment!
I have this same smoker. This is my first offset. Same issue leaking from all around. Tried the lava lock strip but not gel that you used but i still have leaking. Got a little discouraged bc i was having to constantly babysit it bc i had so much difficulty running constant temps. Going to order some lavalock strips And try the double/triple seal in the leaking areas. Curious to know, since ive cooked on it about 8-10 times. Do i have to strip the old gasket off? Or can i just layer on top the current used strips of lavalock?
Hi! Thanks for watching and that's a really good question! I have layered new gasket on top of old gasket and it has worked just fine. I would give it a shot. You might also try adding in some of the liquid RTV gasket. Sometimes you got to get a little creative with these things. Doesn't hurt to try! I hope that helps! Let me know how it goes.
Another informative video - essential viewing! Thanks Tony.
Thanks again Lee! I'm glad you think so!
Thanks for the vid. My question is. You needed 2pks of the tape?
I have a Char Griller too. Gonna try some of this. But look into small angle iron or aluminum at least on the ends to make a better and easier sealing surface
Pat, I like where you're going with that. I had the same idea but ended up going with the smoker gasket and RTV because it was simple, quick, easy and low cost. Let me know what you end up doing. I'd be very interested to know! Thanks for watching and I appreciate your comment!
I used flat stock on the sides and front and gasket on the rear so as not to cause ot much issue opening. Next i welded 3 inch pipe to extend my chimney and used so more pipe to lower to pipe to grate level
@@andraealston8478 Nice! Did you weld the flat stock to the front and sides? I bet that works great!
@@TonyToneBBQ yessir butt it right up against to lip and you could in theory weld it to the top lid or to the bottom portion so it basically sits on it... also to correct airflow issues extend the stack with a 3 inch pipe I extended 15 inches
@@andraealston8478 welding is a great skill to have. Nicely done!
I believe when you used the long screwdriver, you bent the firebox door and not the hinges! Just my $ 0,02 ;-)
That's a possibility, perhaps right where it's welded to the hinge. Either way, it works! Thanks for watching!
I did exactly this with a comparable grill, it still leaked smoke, unfortunately. However, I'm really happy it's working out for you! I like the trick of doubling up on the gasket...maybe that would have worked with that other grill I had but eventually I got rid of the smoker/grill and purchased a Oklahoma Joe Highland, I already owned a Ok Joe Bronco. If you're looking for a more solid smoker and don't mind spending another $200 AND don't want to go through the mods on a less expensive grill. Nonetheless, great work on sealing this grill, bravo!
That OKJ Highland is a great offset! I agree, it's worth spending more for better quality when you can. I'll be adding another rig to my collection soon. I have an Oklahoma Joe Judge so I will be considering the Highland or Longhorn. Thanks for your comments Vincent! Smoke on!
I too have a char griller (COS) that long screw driver tip sweeping the ash side to side im trying that next time.Hard to do without a big door to open up. I always pickup a lot of info from your videos keep them coming. You can tell you’re getting more comfortable the more you do. 👍🏻
Thanks Nick! I appreciate that a lot! I rewatch my videos and try to look for ways to improve the presentation. Your comments help! Thanks for watching
Just sealed up my smoker followed almost exactly how you laid it out can’t wait for my next cook. Thx Tony your videos are very informative it made it easy for me just the way I like it. 😁
@@nickwilkerson4950 awesome Nick! Let us know how it goes!
Thank you man, very detailed. I plan on trying this with my vertical smoker
You're welcome! Thanks for watching and good luck!
Thank you for the great video. I have a Chargriller Duo and just added the smoke box. I could not figure out how to seal the odd sized gaps in the side of the cooking chamber. I'm going to try your double gasket idea!
Hey John! Thanks for you comment and I'm glad my video helped. Good luck with sealing it up!
On the back. It’s the lid that is buckled in the middle. So why not use a rubber mallet to tap it in so you don’t have to use as much of the gasket. As well as the sides with the same issue? This is a question. And if you can show this type of clip. It would also be as helpful. Just my thoughts. But I like the way it seals. Ordering some lava rock sealer immediately. Thank you.
Bout to do this. Just bought the Oklahoma joe longhorn combo, man so many gaps!!!
Nice! Good metal on that rig. Sealing it up will help a ton. Let me know how it goes! Thanks!
Do you have a video or pic of your smoking patio?
Hey Scott! I moved a couple of months ago and I've been working on setting up a new outdoor cooking pad, and i just finished it today! Thanks for asking! I made this video for you. ua-cam.com/users/shorts3Ax2cg4SX3s?feature=share
Excellent video. Thank you! Just bought and put together a vertical offset smoker and was looking for the best ways to make it go from good to great.
Hey Rich! Congrats on your new vertical offset! I'm glad my video is helpful. You're going to have a lot of good time making delicious barbeque. Check out the video I just uploaded on Prime Rib. Might be a good option for an awesome Christmas dinner. Smoke on!
ua-cam.com/video/rsrDAhQjUFQ/v-deo.html
@@TonyToneBBQ Thanks man! Followed all your steps with the sealer tape and the RTV silicon. Worked like champ - no leaking! Thank you so much!
@@RichLeighton AWESOME!!! That's great to hear! Glad I could help!
I know this is an old video but I have the exact same one of these all the way in Australia. Did you have a problem also with the firebox the slide out part not sealing up too?
Awesome! It's great to hear from you, friend from Australia. Yes, I still have this smoker and the drawer does not seal against the side of the firebox however, that hasn't been a problem. As long as the main cooking chamber lid is sealed up as much as possible, you can even leave that drawer sticking out a half an inch and it doesn't cause a problem. That's because air will be drawn in from that point and it should be pulled upward into the main cooking chamber and will escape out through the exhaust chimney. Smoke should never run the other way. Just seal up that main cooking chamber lid and you should be good to go. Thanks for watching!
Hey brother!!! Love the videos, I tried doing this and the right side of my lid was lifted up pretty high of the gasket but the other side was good. I think it's warped or bent a little, Any tips?
thanks for the tips I'm doing it on mine! Is it a reason to not seal the 2 tiny holes on the left side?
You're welcome and I hope it goes well for you! How about those two tiny holes, I didn't feel like it was necessary. It just depends on how perfect you want it to be, but I didn't feel like those two tiny holes would make much of a difference. Thanks for watching!
My gasket didn't worked, damn thing fell off after the second cool, yes I cleaned the surface before sticking the gasket to it. So can I use the lava lock on the sticky part of the gasket so it attaches better?
Awe bummer! Yes, I'd go ahead and use the Lava Lock RTV with the gasket. Just make sure it has at least 24 hours to cure before firing up the smoker.
Did one packet of the gasket take care of your smoker? Great vid, btw!
Thank you! Yes, one was enough but I purchased two just to be safe and I've used most of it on other projects.
I sealed the back of the smoker like you did but unlike your video I see the gasket from the rear. Any suggestions to correct that
Do you recommend the gasket on the firebox?
Thanks I will definitely try this after watching your video
You're welcome Dan! Thanks for watching!
I was hoping he would show it in action. Otherwise, great video.
Thanks! Please check my channel. I posted a short showing it in action, plus there are other videos or I'm using this smoker.
U just installed the gasket without silicone? Whats the silicone for?
I used the silicone to build up a thick bead along the right side and the left side where the lid meets the body. There's a part in the video where I show you what I'm talking about but basically I installed a strip of gasket, but it wasn't quite thick enough to do the job so I put a thick bead of silicone on top of the gasket and that did the trick.
Hi! I’m totally new to bbq. My dad had a black charcoal Weber when I was a kid. Now I just bought my first house and I want a charcoal bbq grill that also has a smoker so I can smoke fish, beef jerky, etc but also grill when I wanna grill.
I want to buy something cheaper and fix it up just like this video. Is the one in this video a grill also? Any suggestions for a charcoal grill/smoker combo that’s on the cheaper side. I don’t wanna go over $400 if possible
Hi Ms. Angela! Thanks for watching and thank you for your question! Yes, the Char-Griller Smokin Champ can be used as a charcoal grill. There is a removable, adjustable height charcoal grate in the main cooking chamber specifically for this purpose. I've used it for direct heat grilling many times and it works great. If you're looking for something on the lower end of the price scale, but still good quality, I'd recommend the Champ. I purchased mine at Home Depot for $200. I think the price has gone up to $250 since then but still a great value. Good luck and have fun!
@@TonyToneBBQ thank you for the recommendation
@@Ang.0910 my pleasure!
Watching now! Thx again
You're welcome! Please let me know how it goes!
I’m guessing lava rock is safe around high heat and food?
Yes! It's actually made for smokers. Thanks for asking!
So glad to see this! I got a very similar smoker (still in the box) ordering gasket set today
Awesome! Fun times ahead! Thank you for watching and thank you for your comment.
My chargriller doesnt leak at all
That's great!
I appreciate the video and information but, fire it up! I wanna see that smoke!
Thanks Gregory! You should check out my channel. I've got a bunch of videos with the smoke rolling. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the video.
You're welcome! Thanks for watching!
another great vid
Thank you!
Awesome I am looking to get one of these!
I got mine at Home Depot. I love it! Use it every week. Can't beat the Champ for the money.
Thanks 😊
Genius!!!👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks!
Good info 👍 Thsnks
Awesome.
Thanks! Glad you liked it!
Have you ever owned a charbroil brand offset smoker? Walmart has a 1280 sq in smoker with the smoker box for $129. Watching videos of it. It looks like it's built poorly
I have not, but you should probably go with your gut. I'd look it over very carefully, check it's weight, check if it's loose and rattling. Also check out other brands and note the differences. Any Home Depot stores near you?
@@TonyToneBBQ yes i go often. It will be my first smoker i buy. Bjs has it without the smoker box for $97 820 sq in so it's smaller
@@StudCity718 yes, you should shop around and compare different models before buying. It could be worth spending a little more for better quality.
@@TonyToneBBQ cool thanks
@@StudCity718 you're welcome! Good luck!
6.32, so are you sating it was leaking all around, cook in it lets see the results.
Ask and Ye shall receive! Yes, it was leaking from all around the lid. Thanks for your comment! Check back in a few minutes. I just shot a new short video showing the results. Should be ready any minute. Thanks for watching!
This video could have been 4 minutes long
It could have been. Thanks for watching!
Holy cow could you stop talking so much about personal stuff and get to the point of what you used and how you did it. I hate when people drag out the video with useless BS.
I bought one just like that on sale for $57.00 @ Kroger grocery store. and I am going to get the fire box soon.
I don't use a lot of charcoal and more wood and the smoker works great, I would just wish it sealed better.
Thanks for the comment Richard! Yes, I'll keep that in mide for sure. In fact, this video is about 2 years old now and getting right to the point is something I have been working on. Take care and I hope you succeed in sealing that smoker up. It makes a big difference.
Damn I paid 400 for mine that's shitty
Man I appreciate the video but you take a VERY long time to explain this
P.S Do not cut cast iron with a angel grinder in thongs/flip flops stains your feet for 3 days 😅 Aussie's
you talk too much
Yeah, I gotta learn sign language. Thanks for watching!
To much talking...
Still trying to figure out how to explain without talking. Thanks for watching!
You're the one trying to learn about smoking from a white man.....😅
BAD VIDEO AND LONG WINDED!!!!!
Thanks for the feedback
What a clown, this is a great video.
Thank you! I appreciate that!