As a single mom who has boys that love grilled cheeseburgers, pizza, hotdogs and me..a nice ribeye, this video helped so much once I got help lifting it onto the base. Thank you for all your videos. They are extremely helpful!!
As always, very informative unboxing, assembly and first use video. For those looking to master a Kamado Joe, James videos and channel is the place to get started to gain great confidence in using your KJ.
I thought I found a good assembly video and then I found this one and it blew the other one away. Speaking specifically about putting the fire ring on. The toilet paper trick is a game changer!! Thank you!!! Broke my classic III in tonight with its first burn. Grilling tomorrow!!!
Thanks so much! Just got my Kamado Joe III. I cant imagine going through this put together with just the simple instructions they include. Thank you for the in depth informative video's !
I just put together my first Kamado Joe and I can't think how much time and frustration I saved by watching this video and learning the toilet paper trick! Thanks!
Thanks James for the informative setup video. Just bought a Kamado Joe classic 3 from a great bbq store Masons place in Keswick and found this very handy for helping the setup go very smoothly. Cant wait to fire it up!
Thanks so much for this video. It was immensely helpful as I set up my first Kamado Joe Classic III. I knew exactly what to do and in what order. My only hiccup was thinking that because you and your wife put it on the stand that perhaps my wife and I could heft the shell around back of the house from our driveway where it was delivered. One quasi lift from her and we knew that wasn't happening. But I was able to quickly find a moving company that would do it quickly and pretty cheaply. I got it up to 350 and held it there for a bit after watching your technique in this and other videos. All that's left now is to go buy a chicken to spatchcock and dry brine for our first cook tomorrow. Thanks again
I have been watching several of your Kamado Joe videos and I have enjoyed them all. You have a passion and enthusiasm for this brand. Having said this, the thing that caught my attention is your shirt. I love it and all it’s color.
Just built mine after seeing a lot of your videos that motivated to buy one. This video is much more helpful than the manual - which isn't that bad but your videos are just better! 🎉
This is a great video (as are all of them on this channel). I just got my first Kamado Joe yesterday (Classic III) and I followed this video step-by-step to set it up. Now I'm doing my first burn and can't wait to get started cooking. Thank you so much for putting all these videos together. If nothing else it's nice to watch something on UA-cam that's not baby shark or cocomelon for my toddler ;)
In this video, you talk about checking the bands before the grill gets too hot, and you are going to show a close-up of doing that, but it's not in this video. Is there another video where you do check the bands?
Thanks James, enjoyed your video. I'm getting my Classic III in about 3 weeks. Questions about your break in burn: 1. How long did you leave it on? At what temperature? 2. How did you turn it "off"? Just close the vents? 3. Why do you leave it closed for at least 24 hours after turning it off? Thanks Man, I can't wait to try some of your recipes!
congratulations on your new grill. an hour at 350-400 is plenty. I leave it sealed up for 24 hours as that helps the glue on the gaskets cure to reduce the risk of them falling off after some use. yes just close the bottom vent and then the top vent
Thanks James - it may just be a barbeque but your advice and step by step guidance for sure enables the novice with a Kamado to get it assembled right the first time - looking forward to using the Joe now and checking out your other videos. Greetings from the south of France !
My Classic III was delivered a couple of weeks ago. I have watched so many videos, I didn't have any issues setting it up, but when I saw this video posted I wanted to watch it to see if there was anything I missed. Lots of good information, and great tips for cooking with the a KJ. If you're thinking of buying one but are still on the fence, let me say that Kamado Joe is definitely the ceramic grill you want. Great quality, and lots of great videos here for ideas on using it and using it correctly.
Just want to give some big thanks to you for all of the help and advice your channel has provided. I only received my long awaited Classic III today and I followed your guide from start to finish. Every thing went fine and I'm now sitting out the initial burn. My coals only lasted about 4 hours though, as I was using the Weber Premium Lumpwood Charcoal and not the Kamdo XL (which wasn't delivered with my bundle!). I wasn't really sure where the bottom air intake should've been set, but it was nice to watch the temps climb and hold steady. Thanks for creating such an informative and super clear guide for the Kamado!
Thank you for this... Helped a lot!! Am shocked that some people gave this a thumbs down! 🤔?... It's clear, well expressed and very informative. Thank you.
Yay! Mine finally arrived today and I’m performing the burn-in after watching your vid. Can’t wait for its first assignment tomorrow, a rib eye! 😊. Thanks for all the great info. Keep it up!!
@smokingdadbbq the manual seems to show 2 nuts threading over each of the 8 bolts to put the cart together. But only 8 nuts were included. Is it just a weird picture showing sort of an "animation" of putting the nut on, so really just one per bolt?
Awesome video. Thank you. I got my Joe Classic 3 right before Xmas and the weather is finally perfect for me to start my adventure cooking with this beast
I have a fake complaint!! I got my classic 3 last Wednesday and this video wasn’t available yet. Also, I had to build my cart, it didn’t come assembled and in a separate box. My gaps in the firebox seem bigger than yours. I had to really space them equally or I might have had a gap. Is it possible the 5 pieces need to be in a 1-5 configuration? They seem to be the same size.
haha sorry Tom, I made it as soon as it arrived assuming lots of folks will be in a similar position. the gaps should just barley overlap on the bottom and will not cover properly on the top until you pull them out from the wall with the paper ... i also assembled the cart (just needs wheels). I like the locking wheels on the front
Setting up KJCIII. The dome handle, hinge, etc are off center with the ash bin opening. Can this be realigned so the front is symmetrical? A bit pearly of loosing such in order to ropero y align. Do you have video demonstrating correction of improper alignment? Thanks
Thanks for the tutorial. Don’t have a Kamado Joe yet, but this is the model we’re interested in. We’re buildinga new home. When it’s complete, we’llbuy the Joe.
Congrats on the new house, and how awesome to already be thinking about your outdoor kitchen. Counter space is important as is lighting, if I did it again I would prioritize these features even more than the basic rain protection I have
Howdy. Just this afternoon I built my first kJ. I had to lift it a few times and used the arms the the side tables connect to. Have I likely damaged my bbq? I didn’t hear any cracking or anything. Cheers
Congrats, you may have avoided disaster if nothing happened. The arms are held on by screws embedded in the band. the band and the screws don't have the shear strength to support the weight of the joe, if it didn't snap and fall out of your hands then you're good but for next time i would lift it by the draft door and the back bottom of the hinge
Getting my grill in twenty minutes. Driver already called letting me know he’s on the way. Great video. Can’t wait to cook using some of your techniques.
Great video. Just got my grill assembled - the toilet paper trick is brilliant! Question: did I miss the part about the bands? I watched it twice and I still don’t know where the bands are or how to check them.
i would do basket if you don't have one, assuming you have it then (1) something like a thermapen, i suggest the IR - www.thermoworks.com?tw=SDBBQ or the meater probe (you will use both) - bit.ly/SSDBBQMEATER (2) Soapstone (3) JoeTisserie
@@SmokingDadBBQ yea I have been fighting them for months, they want $190 to ship, I have yoder coming in it cost $222 & it weighs 500 pounds, so I'm done with grill dome
First of all, a huge thank you: like many, watching your videos has given me the confidence to buy a KJ... My Big Joe 3 arrives this weekend and I cannot wait to get started. One question on the unboxing... I note you do not use the complete ash collector, just the tray part you pull out ... I understand that doing this means you should not need to take everything out every so often to clean the ash that slips by, but what I don't understand is how you deal with the ash that has fallen to either side of the tray itself after each cook ... I don't think you explained that part? Many thanks!
yes i leave the wings out in mine as i can just scope it all out each time... if you install it, it goes under the fire box ring which means IF you need to clean out behind it you need to remove the entire multi piece firebox and put it back together again
A buddy of mine just received his Kamdo Joe Classic 3 from the Atlanta Grilling Company. He sent me a text describing his issues with a difficult latch. The Atlanta Grilling Company said they would send him a new latch. I'm curious if you've ever heard of this issue. Mine works like a champ! I sent him your excellent assembly video for reference.
its easier to do this than to remove the assembly. I would also check and make sure the dome is aligned properly. If its not aligned a latch won't fix this. you need to lock the air hinge, loosen the bands, move the dome, re-tighten everything and continue on
Thanks for your amazing videos. How big was the box? I am getting my next month and want to make sure that it can get through the front door to make it through the back.
So I purchased the Kamado Joe classic version 2. At the time of purchase I was not aware there was a version 3, and my kamado Joe will be deceived to my house on Monday. I noticed the series 3 has a longer or taller base than the version 2. Is there a reason why? And will the different base shapes change how this grill cooks?
the big joe size is more important IMO than gen 2 vs gen 3. gen 3 is the best breathing kamado i have ever used and comes with the sloroller and three tier rack system. but i would take a big joe 2 over a classic 3 if i had to choose just one grill
I was hoping your chapter on tightening bands had a little more detail perhaps you can do a quick video on that sometime because I think that would be extremely helpful. Otherwise, despite other people’s whining comments I think you did great and following exactly what your title says ... Unboxing, assembly, and first use. Ignore the overly negative folks with zero constructive feedback.
That lighting video would be super useful too James - had to use lighter fluid in a grill when on vacation over the weekend and it just makes the meat smell. The most natural way to light must be the best.
I just went in store today to pay for my Kamado Joe classic 3! If all goes as planned I'll have it delivered this Satuday! I have a vacuumed sealed rack of ribs I'll try out the 321 method with.
Ribs were the first thing I cooked on my new Classic III. The sloRoller did a great job. Best ribs I've every cooked, and it was just my first attempt.
Very nice video. I'm just got the KJ 1 18" and am doing the initial burn in right now. I was wondering if you or anyone else here knows if the Slow Roller "for sure" fits this model. It's expensive and I don't want to find out the hard way that it does not. Thx
it fits the classic 1 and 2... both 1 and 2 are 4" shorter than the series 3 so the model comes with a raiser and grid that is smaller than 18" FYI. I have seen it in action on series 1 and 2 as well as large BGE so i know it fits
How long did you have to wait for the delivery ? After ten days ordering via KJ and no correspondence, I canceled the order and bought through Amazon two days ago. Yesterday the freight company called to set-up delivery. It was impossible to contact KJ in Georgia.
Just discovered Kamado Joe and took delivery of a classic III today. Question, did I hear you say on a recent video that a burn-in is no longer required? Thanks! Excited to start cooking. Your videos give me a lot of confidence.
James, is it safe to move the kamado once you have assembled it? I just got mine and just brought it inside the house and put it on the cart. I didn’t put in all the ceramics yet because I plan to roll it across inside the house and then take it out the back door and move it on the deck. Can I do that with all the ceramics in or should I move it to its final destination before setting it all up?
i move my classic together, the big joe is too heavy so i pull everything out. its just easier / lighter with things not installed. if they are not in yet, i would wait to install once its in the right location
My kamado joe classic iii also came in one box. The cart was not assembled. Even worse it only came with 4 M6X6 screws, the manual shows it is supposed to come with 12. It also did not come with an adequate number of lock washers. Although i havent been able to put the cart together, it seems a lot cheaper in quality then it looks in the videos. I am a bit disappointed that not only did the cart come unassembled but they didnt provide me all the screws to put it together.
I'm going to by the KJ Classic 3 soon. Can you have 2 grate levels and still use the slo-roller at the same time? I like to do ribs on the grill and would like to do at least 4 to 5 racks on the grill but know I will need at least two grate levels to do them. Thanks for your input.
Have you tried moving the plates around so that the seam is directly above the lower vent, rather than the vent hole in the plate? I'd be interested to see if that makes a difference as to whether there's a hot spot in the front or not.
I went to get some Jealous Devil lump coal hoping my Joe Jr would get here soon and ended up with a classic 3. I can't pick it up till next week but I'm excited. Thanks for the videos.
I like it. it’s not mandatory... kick ash basket and Kamado Joe make them for the older models. the advantage is more air, easier to clean... and on the Joe jr it’s a must have as you can remove the coals / heat source which speeds up the cooling down
Hi, I just bought and assemble a classic II. I rewatch your video just to make sure I did allright and by doing so, I notice that on my classic II I had a black round piece of metal full of holes to put a the bottom of the heat box. Is it necessary? And why. Thank you.
I saw that the bake in period is 350-450* for 1 hour; then shut the vents and let it sit for 24 hours. What about baking in the slo-roller? What if you also have the pizza dojoe, should that be baked in too? If so, how long on those?
@@SmokingDadBBQ Thanks. So if I understand you correctly, the 24 hour sit allows the glue to cure and the slo-roller and pizza dojoe don't need any kind of bake in to get rid of manufacturing leftovers.
Hi James. I watched this video specifically to get tips on how to put those pesky ceramic plates back in my Kamado Joe Big Joe Series 2. Mission accomplished after help with the toilet paper trick. My son bought me a charcoal basket for Father’s Day which was supposed to fit the Big Joe 2. However once I installed it, the basket sits higher on the ceramic plate walls than yours did in this video. It sits a good 3” above where the grate would normally sit. Is this too high in your opinion? The base of the charcoal basket is about 16.75” across. The diameter of the Joe at grate level is about 12.5”. Pls help! Edgar Smith
Good video, I did look at the fire box and think there not that tight together and in a ceramic expansion should be minimal? Does it close up after use?
After a couple of months of use of my Kamado Joe Classic 3, I have to agree with James and not install the stainless steel whatchamacallit thingy in the bottom of the fire pit. As he notes, it just collects ash that can't be removed unless you take apart the entire assembly or use a shop vac (as I did) to suck the stuff out. If I have any gripe about the KMJ Classic 3, it's this superfluous bit of kit. Take James' advice and leave it out.
Very well done - really extremely helpful. As a newbie allow me a question concerning the Slow Roller setup on a Classic Joe III. After my first cook, I noticed marks of the D&C Rack inside the dome lid. Seems like the whole rack due to the elevated position caused by the Slow Roller has touched the dome. The lid was shutting flawlessly. Is there any further adjustment to be done or can it be left like this? Thanks, Chris
you can move your firebox around, might need to shift forward.... you can also move the base of the sloroller some, between these two minor adjustments you will be all set
Must watch KJ videos:
KJ 101 (start here) - ua-cam.com/video/x3nvkwmwuFw/v-deo.html
Top 10 KJ beginner mistakes - ua-cam.com/video/gdcaOjQt_I0/v-deo.html
Dome alignment issue? - ua-cam.com/video/qWM6mFkfnmI/v-deo.html
Top 5 KJ maintenance tips - ua-cam.com/video/gphUQFW6uIo/v-deo.html
Don’t buy these accessories - ua-cam.com/video/ORcbo6fTHmk/v-deo.html
Smoke wood secret - ua-cam.com/video/2qtHrFjWY1U/v-deo.html
First 5 cooks for a new owner - ua-cam.com/video/JA84ZvYL47Y/v-deo.html
Your videos are lifesaving!!! We just purchased the Joe Classic III and I was feeling overwhelmed 😅 Thank you for all of your videos 😊
As a single mom who has boys that love grilled cheeseburgers, pizza, hotdogs and me..a nice ribeye, this video helped so much once I got help lifting it onto the base. Thank you for all your videos. They are extremely helpful!!
Glad it was helpful!
As always, very informative unboxing, assembly and first use video. For those looking to master a Kamado Joe, James videos and channel is the place to get started to gain great confidence in using your KJ.
Well said! Thanks Scott
Smoking Dad BBQ You are welcome!
I thought I found a good assembly video and then I found this one and it blew the other one away. Speaking specifically about putting the fire ring on. The toilet paper trick is a game changer!! Thank you!!! Broke my classic III in tonight with its first burn. Grilling tomorrow!!!
Thanks so much! Just got my Kamado Joe III. I cant imagine going through this put together with just the simple instructions they include. Thank you for the in depth informative video's !
I just put together my first Kamado Joe and I can't think how much time and frustration I saved by watching this video and learning the toilet paper trick! Thanks!
hahaha amen right? Glad it helped!
Great video! Helped me heaps with setup and loved the toilet paper trick. Thank you, keep the content coming. From Sydney, Australia 🇦🇺
Thanks! I'm glad it helped.
I just assembled my first Kamado Joe with the step-by-step instructions in this video. The break-in burn is underway right now! Thank you!
Glad I could help!
Thanks James for the informative setup video. Just bought a Kamado Joe classic 3 from a great bbq store Masons place in Keswick and found this very handy for helping the setup go very smoothly. Cant wait to fire it up!
Thanks so much for this video. It was immensely helpful as I set up my first Kamado Joe Classic III. I knew exactly what to do and in what order. My only hiccup was thinking that because you and your wife put it on the stand that perhaps my wife and I could heft the shell around back of the house from our driveway where it was delivered. One quasi lift from her and we knew that wasn't happening. But I was able to quickly find a moving company that would do it quickly and pretty cheaply. I got it up to 350 and held it there for a bit after watching your technique in this and other videos. All that's left now is to go buy a chicken to spatchcock and dry brine for our first cook tomorrow. Thanks again
If I ever get a Kamado I'll have to come back to this video! Nice job James!
Glad you enjoyed it. Take care
I have been watching several of your Kamado Joe videos and I have enjoyed them all. You have a passion and enthusiasm for this brand. Having said this, the thing that caught my attention is your shirt. I love it and all it’s color.
hahaha thanks mark
Just built mine after seeing a lot of your videos that motivated to buy one. This video is much more helpful than the manual - which isn't that bad but your videos are just better! 🎉
Good job 👏
I don’t know why so many grumpy rude people commented 🤦♂️
Woke up on the wrong side of the bed today it seems lol
Just discovered Kamado Joe and found your video very interesting. Thank you from the Czech Republic
Awesome, thank you!
This is a great video (as are all of them on this channel). I just got my first Kamado Joe yesterday (Classic III) and I followed this video step-by-step to set it up. Now I'm doing my first burn and can't wait to get started cooking. Thank you so much for putting all these videos together. If nothing else it's nice to watch something on UA-cam that's not baby shark or cocomelon for my toddler ;)
I FINALLY received my Big Joe III today, after ordering in NOVEMBER 2020....SIXTEEN MONTHS AGO! So excited!!
oh wow... i am cooking a brisket for a friend today who ordered the same time as you. he hasn't gotten his yet either
In this video, you talk about checking the bands before the grill gets too hot, and you are going to show a close-up of doing that, but it's not in this video. Is there another video where you do check the bands?
Nice video; Your tip using the paper to prop the baffle was a life saver!!
Glad it helped
I wish I had watched this before assembling my Joe!!!...Brilliant
thanks
Just watched your video to install my FIRST kamado classic III. Huge fan already thanks a bunch!
Glad I could help!
These instructions are outstanding. I just set my Joe up and it’s coming up to temp! Keep making videos, this is my favorite BBQ channel.
Awesome! Thank you!
Thanks James, enjoyed your video. I'm getting my Classic III in about 3 weeks. Questions about your break in burn:
1. How long did you leave it on? At what temperature?
2. How did you turn it "off"? Just close the vents?
3. Why do you leave it closed for at least 24 hours after turning it off?
Thanks Man, I can't wait to try some of your recipes!
congratulations on your new grill. an hour at 350-400 is plenty. I leave it sealed up for 24 hours as that helps the glue on the gaskets cure to reduce the risk of them falling off after some use. yes just close the bottom vent and then the top vent
Thanks for asking these questions as I just received mine today and went back to watch this particular video. Thanks for the answer, SD!
Thank you so much for that toilet paper trick. I set mine up not knowing how to get them together. Your videos are always so informational.
Happy to help!
My Classic 3 arrives in about 11 days. My first Kamado style smoker. This was a great video. Thanks James.
Congrats. Enjoy it
No joke, I got my Classic 3 today. Great timing
Congrats Alan
"I've never had one of my rings warp." Very good James. Very very good. :-)
Many thanks!
Thanks James - it may just be a barbeque but your advice and step by step guidance for sure enables the novice with a Kamado to get it assembled right the first time - looking forward to using the Joe now and checking out your other videos. Greetings from the south of France !
Greetings, glad the video was helpful!
Great video thanks. I have just purchased the classic II. Is there any reason why you didn’t fit the bottom grate?
the classic 3 doesnt come with it anymore as it has the basket only
My Classic III was delivered a couple of weeks ago. I have watched so many videos, I didn't have any issues setting it up, but when I saw this video posted I wanted to watch it to see if there was anything I missed. Lots of good information, and great tips for cooking with the a KJ. If you're thinking of buying one but are still on the fence, let me say that Kamado Joe is definitely the ceramic grill you want. Great quality, and lots of great videos here for ideas on using it and using it correctly.
Thanks for sharing! congratulations on the new grill Cody
Just took delivery of my Big Joe III, the paper towel trick really did it! Now going to rewatch your videos again...for the third time?
haha congrats
Very informative unboxing. I just got my kamado today and I felt really confident with the steps with your help. Thanks!
Glad I could help!
Just want to give some big thanks to you for all of the help and advice your channel has provided.
I only received my long awaited Classic III today and I followed your guide from start to finish. Every thing went fine and I'm now sitting out the initial burn. My coals only lasted about 4 hours though, as I was using the Weber Premium Lumpwood Charcoal and not the Kamdo XL (which wasn't delivered with my bundle!). I wasn't really sure where the bottom air intake should've been set, but it was nice to watch the temps climb and hold steady.
Thanks for creating such an informative and super clear guide for the Kamado!
Congrats Henry on the new Joe
Yesterday I bought this kamado in Hungary. This video is very helpful, thank You.😉
You are welcome 😊
hey that was a great tutorial especially the tip about the toilet paper to bring the things forward.Thanks from the UK Stuart
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for this... Helped a lot!! Am shocked that some people gave this a thumbs down! 🤔?... It's clear, well expressed and very informative. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful! Trolls be trolls lol
Oh... nothing better than a classic! The cart on that is really nice! Take care James.
thanks Johnny
When I unboxed mine, the quality of the cart stood out immediately. Kamado Joe grills are worth every penny, IMO.
Thank you for this video. I just received my KJC III. This video was a life saver!
Glad it helped and enjoy the new KJ!
Yay! Mine finally arrived today and I’m performing the burn-in after watching your vid. Can’t wait for its first assignment tomorrow, a rib eye! 😊. Thanks for all the great info. Keep it up!!
Fantastic!
Our Classic Joe 3 arrives next week, this video has been invaluable, thank you James
happy to help, and congrats
I just ordered my Classic Friday 5-14 and will be delivered Monday 5-17. Can't wait.
congratulations
@smokingdadbbq the manual seems to show 2 nuts threading over each of the 8 bolts to put the cart together. But only 8 nuts were included. Is it just a weird picture showing sort of an "animation" of putting the nut on, so really just one per bolt?
Awesome video. Thank you. I got my Joe Classic 3 right before Xmas and the weather is finally perfect for me to start my adventure cooking with this beast
Glad it helped! Congrats on your new joe
This video is the reason I got the classic III. Thanks James!
thanks and congrats Todd
Great video! Much appreciated. Just got my classic 3 yesterday and will be doing this as soon as the rain stops :)
Have fun!
You are the reason I got the Big Joe 3
I have a fake complaint!! I got my classic 3 last Wednesday and this video wasn’t available yet. Also, I had to build my cart, it didn’t come assembled and in a separate box.
My gaps in the firebox seem bigger than yours. I had to really space them equally or I might have had a gap. Is it possible the 5 pieces need to be in a 1-5 configuration? They seem to be the same size.
haha sorry Tom, I made it as soon as it arrived assuming lots of folks will be in a similar position. the gaps should just barley overlap on the bottom and will not cover properly on the top until you pull them out from the wall with the paper ... i also assembled the cart (just needs wheels). I like the locking wheels on the front
My Cart also came unassembled... Should not be to hard - hoping to lock rings on correctly.
What do you recommend for the parameters of doing the initial burn in
Setting up KJCIII. The dome handle, hinge, etc are off center with the ash bin opening. Can this be realigned so the front is symmetrical? A bit pearly of loosing such in order to ropero y align. Do you have video demonstrating correction of improper alignment? Thanks
Thanks for the tutorial. Don’t have a Kamado Joe yet, but this is the model we’re interested in. We’re buildinga new home. When it’s complete, we’llbuy the Joe.
Congrats on the new house, and how awesome to already be thinking about your outdoor kitchen. Counter space is important as is lighting, if I did it again I would prioritize these features even more than the basic rain protection I have
Howdy.
Just this afternoon I built my first kJ.
I had to lift it a few times and used the arms the the side tables connect to.
Have I likely damaged my bbq? I didn’t hear any cracking or anything.
Cheers
Congrats, you may have avoided disaster if nothing happened. The arms are held on by screws embedded in the band. the band and the screws don't have the shear strength to support the weight of the joe, if it didn't snap and fall out of your hands then you're good but for next time i would lift it by the draft door and the back bottom of the hinge
That shirt is a classic 🤣 but seriously love the unboxing my man and how you break down the process. Cannot wait to see what you cook on that bad boy!
Appreciate it!! Thanks Matt
Getting my grill in twenty minutes. Driver already called letting me know he’s on the way. Great video. Can’t wait to cook using some of your techniques.
fantastic. Hope you enjoy
Does it come with the half moon deflector plates or was that a accessory?
How long do you do the break-in burn???
30-40min is fine
Great video James - have just unpacked my new KJ-C3 can’t wait to fire it up!
Hope you enjoy it! Congrats
I am deciding between a classic 3 or big joe 3. Your videos are invaluable in helping with this decision. Thank you, Brian
Glad to help!
Please read the title before giving negative comments, well presented video did what the title said !!
Finally some common sense lol 😂, thanks
Great video. Just got my grill assembled - the toilet paper trick is brilliant! Question: did I miss the part about the bands? I watched it twice and I still don’t know where the bands are or how to check them.
Congrats James on finally getting your grill! Im still waiting for my Big Joe III. Thanks for continuing to post such great videos!
Thanks for watching!
Thank you for your detail and methodical approach to these videos!
Glad you like them! Much appreciated Tim
I just received my Joe Classic 3 I was forced to purchase thanks to you.
hahaha you’ll thank me later
Do you have a video of necessary(1.2.3.) accessories to get for your KJ III? I saw your Christmas list.
i would do basket if you don't have one, assuming you have it then (1) something like a thermapen, i suggest the IR - www.thermoworks.com?tw=SDBBQ or the meater probe (you will use both) - bit.ly/SSDBBQMEATER (2) Soapstone (3) JoeTisserie
@@SmokingDadBBQ I already have the pen.
Soapstone 1/2 or whole, are all soapstone the same or do I just order for the Joe?
Thank you.
Ty for the info, my grill dome has a cracked lid after 10 years, so its time for a joe
can you get a warranty replacement
@@SmokingDadBBQ yea I have been fighting them for months, they want $190 to ship, I have yoder coming in it cost $222 & it weighs 500 pounds, so I'm done with grill dome
Just got my KJ today! Super stoked and grateful for this channel. Good stuff :)
Rock on!
First of all, a huge thank you: like many, watching your videos has given me the confidence to buy a KJ... My Big Joe 3 arrives this weekend and I cannot wait to get started. One question on the unboxing... I note you do not use the complete ash collector, just the tray part you pull out ... I understand that doing this means you should not need to take everything out every so often to clean the ash that slips by, but what I don't understand is how you deal with the ash that has fallen to either side of the tray itself after each cook ... I don't think you explained that part? Many thanks!
yes i leave the wings out in mine as i can just scope it all out each time... if you install it, it goes under the fire box ring which means IF you need to clean out behind it you need to remove the entire multi piece firebox and put it back together again
@@SmokingDadBBQ So do you just scoop out whatever ash falls to the side with your (gloved) hands? Is the bottom plate wide enough to do this?
@@gideonandbelinda yes, i use the glove to push the ash into the sliding drawer and then pull it all out at once
A buddy of mine just received his Kamdo Joe Classic 3 from the Atlanta Grilling Company. He sent me a text describing his issues with a difficult latch. The Atlanta Grilling Company said they would send him a new latch. I'm curious if you've ever heard of this issue. Mine works like a champ! I sent him your excellent assembly video for reference.
the latch can move left and right with the 4 nuts, the latch also has a hex screw to adjust it vertically. did he try any of the adjustments first?
its easier to do this than to remove the assembly. I would also check and make sure the dome is aligned properly. If its not aligned a latch won't fix this. you need to lock the air hinge, loosen the bands, move the dome, re-tighten everything and continue on
@@SmokingDadBBQ Thank you so much for the information. I will pass this along to Mike.
Great video. May I ask how many racks of spareribs can you fit in the Classic Joe without using accessories? Thanks!
Thanks for your amazing videos. How big was the box? I am getting my next month and want to make sure that it can get through the front door to make it through the back.
in the crate? no, assembled with the shelves down should be ok
Thanks for keeping the volume level on the music low. Great video!
thanks!
We expect to receive our KJ3 sometime this week. We will be referring to this vid for sure. Thanks, James!
thanks and congrats
So I purchased the Kamado Joe classic version 2. At the time of purchase I was not aware there was a version 3, and my kamado Joe will be deceived to my house on Monday.
I noticed the series 3 has a longer or taller base than the version 2. Is there a reason why? And will the different base shapes change how this grill cooks?
Great teacher, can’t wait to learn all that he teaches. Love your style.
Thanks so much!
Giving this video a second watch while I set up my classic 3. What should I cook first on it? Anything that’s good for getting to know your Kamado?
i love chicken as a first cook as its just so surprising in how much more moist it is. SloRoller at 425f for about 45min
I’d be very interested in your view of the 3 vs 2 and whether it’s worth the uplift.
the big joe size is more important IMO than gen 2 vs gen 3. gen 3 is the best breathing kamado i have ever used and comes with the sloroller and three tier rack system. but i would take a big joe 2 over a classic 3 if i had to choose just one grill
Does everything shown, come standard? Racks, divide and conquer, slow roller? Thanks
yes all with the series 3
Do you still recommend leaving the 'ash guide' first or leaving it out? Assembling the new Classic 2 tonight and hoping for your insight :)
yes for me i never put it in anymore as its a pain to get it out for cleaning the build up that gets stuck behind
I was hoping your chapter on tightening bands had a little more detail perhaps you can do a quick video on that sometime because I think that would be extremely helpful. Otherwise, despite other people’s whining comments I think you did great and following exactly what your title says ... Unboxing, assembly, and first use. Ignore the overly negative folks with zero constructive feedback.
Houston Mccain again you are another example of another whiny online commenter and offer ZERO constructive feedback on even what supposedly was bad.
Great suggestion! There is a great deal of adjustability in the bands so lots to cover
That lighting video would be super useful too James - had to use lighter fluid in a grill when on vacation over the weekend and it just makes the meat smell. The most natural way to light must be the best.
Absolutely, will make it happen
I just went in store today to pay for my Kamado Joe classic 3! If all goes as planned I'll have it delivered this Satuday!
I have a vacuumed sealed rack of ribs I'll try out the 321 method with.
amazing. I personally love the 2-1 method I used in this video but you can’t go wrong - ua-cam.com/video/k3hLMNQCnE8/v-deo.html
Ribs were the first thing I cooked on my new Classic III. The sloRoller did a great job. Best ribs I've every cooked, and it was just my first attempt.
Very nice video. I'm just got the KJ 1 18" and am doing the initial burn in right now. I was wondering if you or anyone else here knows if the Slow Roller "for sure" fits this model. It's expensive and I don't want to find out the hard way that it does not. Thx
it fits the classic 1 and 2... both 1 and 2 are 4" shorter than the series 3 so the model comes with a raiser and grid that is smaller than 18" FYI. I have seen it in action on series 1 and 2 as well as large BGE so i know it fits
@@SmokingDadBBQ I'm glad I found you and your videos! Thank You.
How long did you have to wait for the delivery ? After ten days ordering via KJ and no correspondence, I canceled the order and bought through Amazon two days ago. Yesterday the freight company called to set-up delivery. It was impossible to contact KJ in Georgia.
It’s like Christmas Day!!! Congrats on finally receiving your long awaited grill, James!!💃🏻🔥
Yes! Thank you!
Just discovered Kamado Joe and took delivery of a classic III today. Question, did I hear you say on a recent video that a burn-in is no longer required? Thanks! Excited to start cooking. Your videos give me a lot of confidence.
James, is it safe to move the kamado once you have assembled it? I just got mine and just brought it inside the house and put it on the cart. I didn’t put in all the ceramics yet because I plan to roll it across inside the house and then take it out the back door and move it on the deck. Can I do that with all the ceramics in or should I move it to its final destination before setting it all up?
i move my classic together, the big joe is too heavy so i pull everything out. its just easier / lighter with things not installed. if they are not in yet, i would wait to install once its in the right location
@@SmokingDadBBQ thanks james!!!
My kamado joe classic iii also came in one box. The cart was not assembled. Even worse it only came with 4 M6X6 screws, the manual shows it is supposed to come with 12. It also did not come with an adequate number of lock washers. Although i havent been able to put the cart together, it seems a lot cheaper in quality then it looks in the videos. I am a bit disappointed that not only did the cart come unassembled but they didnt provide me all the screws to put it together.
oh bummer. I did hear the cart now comes in the same box but haven’t heard about any hardware issues. hope they sort you out with the missing parts
I'm going to by the KJ Classic 3 soon. Can you have 2 grate levels and still use the slo-roller at the same time? I like to do ribs on the grill and would like to do at least 4 to 5 racks on the grill but know I will need at least two grate levels to do them. Thanks for your input.
yes I use the grid extender... max five racks is what I have done
Have you tried moving the plates around so that the seam is directly above the lower vent, rather than the vent hole in the plate? I'd be interested to see if that makes a difference as to whether there's a hot spot in the front or not.
I haven't tried experimenting with that, i just install them close together often with the line running front to back
I went to get some Jealous Devil lump coal hoping my Joe Jr would get here soon and ended up with a classic 3. I can't pick it up till next week but I'm excited. Thanks for the videos.
Right on. thanks for watching
Is an charcoal basket a must? My kamado did not have that included and now im thinking of buying it..
I like it. it’s not mandatory... kick ash basket and Kamado Joe make them for the older models. the advantage is more air, easier to clean... and on the Joe jr it’s a must have as you can remove the coals / heat source which speeds up the cooling down
Hi, I just bought and assemble a classic II. I rewatch your video just to make sure I did allright and by doing so, I notice that on my classic II I had a black round piece of metal full of holes to put a the bottom of the heat box. Is it necessary? And why. Thank you.
I’ve not seen that piece before. not sure what that might be for
@@SmokingDadBBQ Sounds like it's the cast iron fire grate.
@@eltakeiteasy I am not sure what I was thinking lol. You’re 100% right. I missed classic 2, they don’t come with the basket
I saw that the bake in period is 350-450* for 1 hour; then shut the vents and let it sit for 24 hours. What about baking in the slo-roller? What if you also have the pizza dojoe, should that be baked in too? If so, how long on those?
this is only to help cure the gasket glue, those other things are fine
@@SmokingDadBBQ Thanks. So if I understand you correctly, the 24 hour sit allows the glue to cure and the slo-roller and pizza dojoe don't need any kind of bake in to get rid of manufacturing leftovers.
@@KayakFishingAddict that’s what I did. If you’d like no harm in doing it
Did you use the ash pan in the joe jr
i use the charcoal basket from kick ash basket
Hi James. I watched this video specifically to get tips on how to put those pesky ceramic plates back in my Kamado Joe Big Joe Series 2. Mission accomplished after help with the toilet paper trick. My son bought me a charcoal basket for Father’s Day which was supposed to fit the Big Joe 2. However once I installed it, the basket sits higher on the ceramic plate walls than yours did in this video. It sits a good 3” above where the grate would normally sit. Is this too high in your opinion? The base of the charcoal basket is about 16.75” across. The diameter of the Joe at grate level is about 12.5”. Pls help!
Edgar Smith
Good video, I did look at the fire box and think there not that tight together and in a ceramic expansion should be minimal? Does it close up after use?
I don’t think it moves enough for the eye to see. it’s just enough to crack the box if it was all one piece
After a couple of months of use of my Kamado Joe Classic 3, I have to agree with James and not install the stainless steel whatchamacallit thingy in the bottom of the fire pit. As he notes, it just collects ash that can't be removed unless you take apart the entire assembly or use a shop vac (as I did) to suck the stuff out.
If I have any gripe about the KMJ Classic 3, it's this superfluous bit of kit. Take James' advice and leave it out.
cheers
Very well done - really extremely helpful. As a newbie allow me a question concerning the Slow Roller setup on a Classic Joe III. After my first cook, I noticed marks of the D&C Rack inside the dome lid. Seems like the whole rack due to the elevated position caused by the Slow Roller has touched the dome. The lid was shutting flawlessly. Is there any further adjustment to be done or can it be left like this? Thanks, Chris
you can move your firebox around, might need to shift forward.... you can also move the base of the sloroller some, between these two minor adjustments you will be all set
Have fun with your nice new grill 🍀😊
Thank you, I will. Cheers 🍻
Have you seen this new Joe Kettle that is coming soon? Wonder if that will be a nice grill to begin with vs the expensive ceramic?
I just saw it, looks like something I can't wait to try
Whats the main reason to use the divided basket? Would you do that in all cooks?
Just recieved my classic 3, tommorow ill be doing the initial burn.
i dont use that tool as i find its easier to bank the coals and then you have the flexibility to move them around
@@SmokingDadBBQ thanks for your quick reply! That was exactly what I expected. Looking forward learning more from your other video's :)