This is so easy only minimal tools & skill needed.
Perfect father & child project.
It's a real cooker! Will smoke 1 turkey, or 2 chickens, 3 racks ribs , or 2 six lb. butts.
Will smoke for 8-9 hours without tending!
Cost is about $80
Made of quality components, should last 10+ years!
First this is not my idea
Saw one , & loved it. Long discussion on "weber virtual bullet "
Easy to make & a perfect project for a father & child
I geared mine for tailgating , but works great as a backyard cooker for small cooks
You need
1) 14 in portable kettle grill For tailgating, I think the Weber smoky joe gold, with enclosed bottom makes most sense .
2) 32 qt IMUSA brand tamale pot, runs about $20. If you live in an area of large hispanic population Wally World & Target carry, I ordered mine from Walmart.
3) nine 1/2 in X 1/4 bolts washers & nuts.
4) a replacement charcoal rack for 18.5 in kettle (weber)
5) 2 in smoker thermometer. (I used one acadamy had $10)
6) High temp paint , optional,
Grill paint is too dull so I got engine enamel ,high temp paint.
I used "FORD RED" , 2nd was saints gold
7) the only tools needed are screw driver, pliers, & drill.
Drill 3 holes 1/2 in from top rim evenly around circumference, 1/4 in size.
Drill 3 holes 4 in from top same way
Drill 1 3/8 in hole5 in from top for thermometer.
Drill (12) 3/8 in holes ( or (6) 5/8 in holes) circumferentially around bottom 1 1/2 in from edge.
hack saw, tin snips etc.
Install support bolts
Wash soap & water & dry ( clean for painting ) Mask tape handles ( I think looks better)
Paint let dry & install therm.
Hint the metal is soft, drill the bigger holes in steps ( drill small holes & enlarge)
A step drill bit works perfectly
Heat deflector either a 9 in steel pie pan or 10 in flower pot bottom