This project started in my head after seeing portuguese chicken on food safari. I considered using a 44 gallon drum, corrugated iron and any manner of other components. I discussed it with dad and we uncovered this old copper water heater at the back of his shed. Planning started then and modifications continued throughout the project.
The picture above shows our first steps. The internal copper to the left and the metal surrounding tank that contained insulation. Here we have cut the first shapes. Cut the hatch in the copper and sliced the outer tank in two.

Next we shaped the bbq housing. The second half of the outer casing has been pop riveted to the bottom of the larger piece. The copper cylinder will sit in this. I imagine filling the void between this housing and the cylinder with perlite or some other insulation. This was achieved with pop rivets, an angle grinder, tin snips and some banging. It was very satisfying to see it take shape.

We have sealed the base and we continued to snip and shape until the copper cylinder sat neatly.

Next we did the bbq cylinder. We finished cutting the hatch, then reattached it with 3 hinges. We got these second hand and soaked them in old engine oil to get them moving again. The end also is reattached with a hinge and latch.

Here we have fitted two pieces of rebar through the old copper inlet and outlet holes. A custom grill can sit on these and the hatch close to create a wood fired oven. As seen in this picture you can also insert a rotisserie.

Now the payoff. Above is the fire burning down to coals nicely. It is important to let the fire burn a while before cooking, and to have quality timber that burns to coals well. The marinated pork ribs are clamped in the grill.
Imagine collapsible chairs with friends downing beers, the sound of fat dripping in the fire and the wafting aroma of fried meat.
It is as good as it sounds. The meat has a great rich smoked flavour and cooks quite quickly.