The Wild Pig Smoker

Step 5 Install Door seals

I removed the tank from the trailer to make it easier for me to get close to my welder but this could be done on the trailer.

What you want to do here is get some flat steel to weld inside the door openings. The flat stock doesn't have to be very thick but wide enough to weld on and have about half the flat overlap the opening. I used 1 1/2 inch flat stock.

Cut and bend the pieces to conform to the inside of the door openings in the tank. I use several clamps or vice grips on each piece to hold it in place while I spot-weld it. Place half of the flat stock width in the tank allowing the other half of the width to overlap the opening. This will not only help seal the opening to prevent too much heat/smoke from escaping but it will act as a door stop also. Line all sides of the door openings with this.

Some builders elect to place the flat stock on the outside of their doors. This is a builders choice. I prefer inside as I think it makes a better seal. You can put flat on the outside for looks if required.

Comments

[KapnKluck]

Looks like a great job. When I weld the door trim on the inside I find it easier to blow holes around the opening, clamp in trim, weld from the outside and grind smooth. I don't like sticking my head in there, breathing the gas and trying to get my bi-focals in the right place. Let's eat!

[purplewg]

Thanks KapnKluck, I will sure give that a try on my next one.