I had a 2012 MES 40 which I returned because of problems I had with it, but while it was working, I had a great New Year's eve party where I was able to do 8 racks of ribs. That has my wheels spinning for this summer. If I get an extra rack for the Model 3, could I potentially do 10 racks at once, or would that be overkill for the heating element? Not a deal breaker for me, so please be candid
Hi Suya.The #3 has a 1200 w element which is one thing I wanted and why I went for it . I smoked 5- 8 lb butts in it at Christmas and could have done more but they were too tall for that many racks.( I used 2). At 185 internal temperature (IT) I put them in the tray and removed a shelf. That when I squirt with apple juice/rub mix.. It was so tender, after reaching 200 IT, that It about fell apart . In truth, a hunk fell on the garage floor- much to the puppies delight.
The shelves are long so I seriously doubt that you will need to cut the racks unless you are smoking an elephant and 3 or 4 racks per shelf would be my guess. I don't use the very top rack holder because I don't want to be in so close to the top where the heavier smoke is exiting.
This smoker is so well designed it put the disc one I had several years ago to shame. This is a Cadillac and my disc one was a yugo. No comparison.
bordercollie