Just finished a partial refurbishment to my old New Braunfels Black Diamond. What that entailed was pretty much taking it apart and handing my kids the electric sander and some serious grit paper and then repainting with black grill paint and new bolts, nuts, etc.
What I really wanted to do was something a bit more custom....but trying to find any high-heat paint that wasn't white or black was a pain in the ass. What I did find was insanely expensive.
I also want to get a bit more insulation going on this puppy. I'm going to add some metal oven gasket to both the cooking area and smoker box doors. Wish I still had the welder...I'd add a lip around the gaps of the vent door on the side of the smoker box.
Any ideas on the paint or some simple ways to retain just a bit more heat?
I think you should talk to Mikey. I believe he could help you but not sure if it was the same smoker. I seem to remember a custom mod he did. Can't seem to find the post right now. All the best...
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Oddly enough- black is your best bet for heat retention. You could consider some firebricks for thermal mass- but of course those must be heated too. I guess I'm not familiar enough with the NB smoker, but gaskets/sealing edges can't hurt either.
Matso98: The unit I have is a Bandera and had the same issues. I'm guessing that your problem is with the firebox lid and if that's the case, here's a link to some material that should take care of the problem. I used ceramic fiber board from the same co. but this is blanket material which should work on curved firebox lids. Also, try using a good high heat primer first, then your bbq black. I used Rustoleum on mine which is good to 1200 degrees (that temp is questionable). Hope this helps. BTW, after I get through with my latest lid mod, my Bandera is going to get a two tone paint job; black & ivy green.
Also at Auto motive stores (napa) they have header paint in differnt colors with ceramic dust in them. pretty good stuff. and looks nice. just have to keep it shook up good while using.
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What I really wanted to do was something a bit more custom....but trying to find any high-heat paint that wasn't white or black was a pain in the ass. What I did find was insanely expensive.
I have got my drum rippin' hot (not really on purpose) and the paint has held up very well.
Good luck.
Dave
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Thanks to all for the replies. I'm thinking Alma-mater colors of burnt orange, black. white and silver. Now to go find or make some Longhorn paint templates....
I have got my drum rippin' hot (not really on purpose) and the paint has held up very well.
Good luck.
Dave
Thanks for the info... looks like it might be time to buy a bead blaster too
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