My 7 Simple Mods for the Oklahoma Joe Longhorn Smoker – April(2024)

In this guide, I address many of the questions you might have about Oklahoma Joe Longhorn Smoker Mods..

Finding accurate and comprehensive information on these mods was a challenge for me.

But through my personal experiences and learnings, I’ve gathered valuable insights that I believe will be beneficial for you..

I’ve delved into common topics such as:

• Oklahoma Joe longhorn tuning plate
• Oklahoma Joe accessories
• Oklahoma Joe firebox upgrade
• Oklahoma Joe longhorn baffle plate, and more.

I genuinely hope my insights provide the answers you’re seeking…;

Make sure to explore my other insights:

-A comprehensive list of over 12 top modifications for various grills, smokers, and cookers.
-A detailed comparison: Oklahoma Joe vs. Char-Griller.
-Personal experiences with Oklahoma Joe Longhorn combo mods.
-My top picks for Oklahoma Joe accessories.

Oklahoma Joe Longhorn Smoker Mods- Easy and to the point.

Mod 1 : Installing Lock Gauges.

Smoke leakages in the Oklahoma Joe Longhorn are a common issue I’ve noticed. One primary culprit? The cooking chamber lids not sealing correctly.

To combat this, I personally opted for the Lava Lock clamp, installing it directly on the chamber doors. It made a significant difference in ensuring a tight seal.

While some prefer positioning the clamp lower, I found it most effective on the upper side.

However, a word of caution: its placement can sometimes interfere with opening the firebox lids.

Ultimately, the decision on where to place it rests with you, based on your preferences and needs..

Mod 2: Incorporating Additional Thermometers

The Oklahoma Joe Longhorn comes equipped with two slots for thermometers right out of the box. Wanting to maximize this feature, I decided to install new thermometers myself.

To my surprise, I observed a temperature difference of 10-15 degrees between the two sides. But, rather than seeing it as an issue, I’ve come to appreciate this variance. Having one side hotter than the other is quite beneficial for me, especially when I’m cooking different dishes simultaneously..

Recommended Reading:
–How to keep meat warm for hours

Mod 3: Incorporating a Water Pan

I can’t recommend this enough. I’ve positioned a water pan right under the grates.

Not only is it space-efficient, but it’s also a game-changer when it comes to temperature management. Take a look at how I’ve set mine up..

Mod 4 : Using Diffuser or Tuning Plates (Oklahoma Joe Longhorn Tuning Plate)

This modification has been a game-changer for me, and I can’t stress its value enough.

Tuning plates play a crucial role in distributing smoke evenly throughout the cooking chamber.

Plus, they’re instrumental in maintaining a consistent temperature.

I opted to purchase one online, sidestepping the DIY route to save time and effort.

Installation choices vary: you can either secure it with screws for a permanent setup or leave it temporary.

In my setup, I firmly screwed it in place. And trust me, when it’s cleaning time, unscrewing it is a breeze..

Mod 5: Eliminating Spot Welds and Brackets

Upon inspecting the inside of the cooking chamber, you might notice tiny spot welds situated beneath where the baffle plate rests, along with some brackets. It’s worth noting that these are specifically for reverse flow models.

For my setup, they weren’t necessary. So, with the aid of an air hammer, I promptly removed them. My goal was to optimize the tuning system, and to ensure my tuning plates sat perfectly, these welds had to go..

Mod 6: Securing the Firebox (Aka the Oklahoma Joe Firebox Upgrade)

Sealing the firebox with silicone is a smart move. In my journey with the Oklahoma Joe, I took it a step further. I applied silicone to virtually every spot where I noticed smoke escaping during my cooking sessions.

If smoke leakage is a persistent issue for you, as it was for me, then this modification is essential..

Tips : 

It is useless to put sealant around the area of the firebox lid closing as it burns off with heat soon..  

Mod 7: Introducing Ports for Probes

There’s nothing more frustrating than witnessing smoke leakages when trying to insert a temperature probe through the lid.

To tackle this, I took the initiative to drill a hole, allowing for direct probe insertion..

This modification has been incredibly convenient, eliminating the need to thread my probe through the lid.

For an added touch, consider attaching a rubber port. It not only prevents leakages but also facilitates smoother insertion of temperature probes..

# Tools and Items I used for the Modifications:

Find your Accessories…

Oklahoma Joe’s Temperature gauge

Oklahoma Joe’s Steel Griddle

Oklahoma Joe’s Charcoal Firebox

Oklahoma Joe’s Dirp Bucket

Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Outdoor combo grill cover:

Oklahoma Joe’s Smoker Lid Latch Kit

Smoke stack extension for OKLAHOMA JOE’S LONGHORN

FAQ

# How can I improve my Oklahoma Joe smoker?

Elevate your Oklahoma Joe Smoker experience with a few modifications. Consider sealing any joint leakages, applying gaskets across the lids, utilizing a charcoal basket, and adding a temperature gauge. I’ve detailed the most impactful modifications in this article for your convenience.

# Are Oklahoma Joe’s smokers manufactured in China?

While the brand is under the umbrella of Charbroil, a US-based company known for its quality, the mass production of Oklahoma Joe’s units takes place in China. That said, its performance and build quality stand out, making it superior to many competitors in its category..

# How do I operate an Oklahoma Joe’s Highland offset smoker?

Operating the Oklahoma Joe’s Highland offset smoker is straightforward, much like other offset smokers. For a hands-on guide, check out this video tutorial on “Smoked Ribs and Fire Management.“

# Which is the largest Oklahoma Joe smoker available?

The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn offset smoker takes the crown as the most spacious model, boasting approximately 751-square-inches of primary cooking area.

# Does the Oklahoma Joe Longhorn Smoker feature a reverse flow exhaust port?

No, the Longhorn Offset Smoker comes with a single smoke stack, without a reverse flow exhaust port.

# Conclusion

In conclusion, these simple modifications for the Oklahoma Joe Longhorn Smoker can greatly improve its functionality and usability. You may improve temperature control and efficiency with these adjustments, which range from installing heat management systems to closing air leaks. By putting these straightforward improvements into practice, you can elevate your smoking skills and easily enjoy mouthwatering bbq…