Even though I don't own a Pit Barrel Cooker, I have done more than my share of cooking on a Weber Kettle, so let me chime in here just a bit.
Don, being an analytical thinker, I love knowing how things work and probably would've over-thunk using the PBC a bit myself (yes I used the word "over-thunk"
).
I think you summed up your issue right here:
I've done two reasonably successful cooks on this thing: Chicken and ribs. Because neither was blow me away spectacular, I began to fret.
Based on your comments, I think you did have a couple of relatively successful cooks, so I don't think it's a cooker issue as much as you're just not totally happy with the flavor.
Here are a couple of suggestions:
► I noticed in another post you used a chimney starter. If, like me, you can't stand using charcoal lighter fluid, then you may need to invest in a couple of chimney starters to get enough charcoal going to fill the basket all at once. At least that way you'd be starting with the proper amount of charcoal, and you'd be up and running in the allotted 20 minutes.
There are people with super sensitive smelling that can detect even a small amount of lighter fluid, and I'm one of them. And that smell affects the flavor and could be a hindrance to enjoying an otherwise great cooker!
► I think you're on the right track with your turkey cook in regards to seasoning. Next time you do a rib cook, use the rubs/seasonings that YOU like, and then see if the flavor is more to your liking.
► Dare I say it? I know the testing was all done using Kingsford, but DON'T be afraid to try a different brand of charcoal.
I like Royal Oak briquettes much better than Kingsford, because I just think they have a cleaner smoke flavor, and they cook just as well, if not better.
If you can't find briquettes branded "Royal Oak", go to Wal-Mart and get the "Sam's Choice" or to Ace Hardware and get their "Grillmark" brand. Both are made by Royal Oak and should give equivalent results.
In the mean time, start taking some pics to share with us, and keep posting your experiences, good and bad, with this cooker. The things you learn may help someone else!