Hi outdoordiva, my name is mike and I just bought the vertical smoker from Brinkmann and have used it twice in 3 days. Outside of adding a nuclear burning device :) I cant get this smoker past 150 degrees. I am trying to figure it out since most recipes call for getting it up to 250. Have you had any luck with 1/2 water or any other ideas? I think the charcoal is getting smothered and lacking oxygen since it is in a bowl. I am registered with this site but if you could email me any suggestions I would really greatly appreciate it. My email is mikes@xlnttint.com The weekend is coming up and I would love to tackle on nice brisket or something, but not if I am going to ruin it. Thanks for your help.
S/ Mike