In line throttle valve for propane tank supply

[lupi]

I bought a propane smoker a couple months ago. Have now used it 4 times. One of the main negative points I read about it where comments of having difficulty maintaining heat. So I did some research and was prepared to help insulate the door/door seal as needed.

In actual use, i'm having the problem of mine running too hot even with the burner set to its lowest setting.

During the initial cure I had no problem hitting 400+, and with the door closed and burner set at minimum it probably would hover around 230.

So to use it i've had to adjust amount of door opening as a method of temperature control. Has anyone used an additional throttle valve to give more control over the gas supply?

 

[WHAMPOM]

!. Barely crack the tank valve open.

2. Replace the old gas regulator with an adjustable one with a gauge.

 

[NoTine42]

I would think a smaller orifice is the proper way to reduce gas flow before a burner.

Here is some mention in a smoker forum

http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t/86635/propane-to-ng-conversion

Personally, I've only installed a few NG to LP conversion kits in dryers and a stove top. In my 4-burner stove top, the smallest burner has the smallest orifice as means of reducing output for the burner size.

The big question is whether or not your grill company offers different orifices.

 

[TonyG]

I would suggest replacing the regulator with an adjustable version also. The current regulator should have a standard 1/4" NPT thread and be easy enough to replace. If you are unsure about this, take the hose and regulator assembly to your local propane supply house and tell them what you are wanting to do and they should be happy to help. A regulator and maybe a fitting or two should be around $50, maybe less.
You could put a ball valve in line with the regulator, but it would be very crude in its adjustment, and be easy to knock open/closed, and I would suggest staying away from that option.

 

[fatjohnny]

I bought a propane smoker a couple months ago.

<snip>

Has anyone used an additional throttle valve to give more control over the gas supply?

I used to have a propane smoker (now went to electric). What you are looking for is a needle valve. Something like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Bayou-Classic-Brass-Control-Valve/dp/B0016IZZZU

Read the reviews, several people mention a smoker. This is exactly what you want.

Good luck and happy smoking,
FJ