New Smoker

[Swimbait2009]

Picked up a Grillpro vertical propane smoker today, and I tossed a couple racks of ribs in. So far, I've been having trouble keeping the temp down in it. It wants to cook around 315F. This is about 100 degrees higher than what I would like. The burner control knob is all the way down. Are there any other tips for getting the temp down a bit further?

[sdpikehntr]

Try turning the gas down at the tank.

[Redlantern]

I believe I have the same smoker. I notice on warm calm days it's hard to regulate the temp. I tried turning down the gas as is suggested above but it's such a fine line between off and low. I'm looking at finding a needle valve that I can install between the cylinder and the burner to see if this helps limit the flow. I'll let you know how it turns out.

[Swimbait2009]

My other thought is that maybe the thermometer on the front of the cabinet is just not accurate. I'm going to find myself an oven thermometer and check it that way.

[Redlantern]

Swimbait, I put a 1/4 inch ball valve inline right after my regulator. Had to go 1/4" since I didn't find an 1/8th inch valve at Menards. I also had to use a 1/4 x 1/8 reducing nipple and a 1/4 x 1/8 pipe bushing. Use a touch of pipe dope and don't tighten too much. They are brass and the reg is aluminum. Pretty soft metals. Soap it up with soapy water and check for leaks. Make sure you put the valve in so that you can easily open and close it. Put it in the wrong direction and the handle will be blocked by the regulator. It seems to help reduce the flow quite well.

Total cost for parts, $8.05 plus tax.

This is my first picture I've ever been able to get on here. Woohoo!