Hi all,
I have noticed a few post on here that mention the Don Godke`s Downdraft.  I have looked at the videos and I really don't get the purpose of this device.  Can someone clue me into the problem that this device solves for?  It the problem is sufficient to require an add on device, why hasn't the issue been resolved by GMG?
thanks

Not sure it was made to address issues. I have never had temperature issues on either of my Daniel Boones.  I did a Product review of the Hurd's downdraft. I want to say that the main purpose was to keep the smoke in the chamber longer.  It may have evened out grate temperatures for others.  Another benefit was that it decreased Pellet consumption by about 7%, so that was an advantage. 

And the downdrafts are for many more units then just the GMG's...

Thanks Bentley. 
I did a bit more Googling and found a few images of hacks/mods.   I now have a better idea of the purpose.  I did like the idea of the reverse flow version.  I guess I will toast some white bread and have to spend time cooking to get to know the grill. ( Once I have it! )

Hi all,
I have noticed a few post on here that mention the Don Godke`s Downdraft.  I have looked at the videos and I really don't get the purpose of this device.  Can someone clue me into the problem that this device solves for?  It the problem is sufficient to require an add on device, why hasn't the issue been resolved by GMG?
thanks

I've had Dons downdraft for about 2 years now and I love it.  It's helped even out my temps and lowered my pellet consumption.

I did a cheapo $3 elbow and a short length of pipe to get it to grate level. It did reduce pellet consumption,  but did nothing to stabilize temps left to right. Did help some on set and actual temp.

Now granted, it may not work as well as a Godke's downdraft as I've never seen anyone do a direct comparison test.
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I did a cheapo $3 elbow and a short length of pipe to get it to grate level. It did reduce pellet consumption,  but did nothing to stabilize temps left to right. Did help some on set and actual temp.

Now granted, it may not work as well as a Godke's downdraft as I've never seen anyone do a direct comparison test.
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I use the exact same thing!! Just have to modify the end to get it to fit into chimney. 

I did a cheapo $3 elbow and a short length of pipe to get it to grate level. It did reduce pellet consumption,  but did nothing to stabilize temps left to right. Did help some on set and actual temp.

Now granted, it may not work as well as a Godke's downdraft as I've never seen anyone do a direct comparison test.
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I use the exact same thing!! Just have to modify the end to get it to fit into chimney.

I cut there 1" slices in the crimped end. Fits great.

I did pretty much the same. Used and angle grinder with a slicing blade and cut four 1/8' wide pieces out at each 90 degrees and it fit right in. It is also easy to change around if you don't want to keep it facing straight down. 

I took the dryer vent tube and ran it across the top of the unit to the left side.  This evened grate temps dramatically essentially making it a reverse flow design.

Good ideas - I like home-built innovation 

I just added my downdraft the other afternoon.  Very nicely made.  I have done the burn in but that is it.  Hope to try it out this weekend.

I took the dryer vent tube and ran it across the top of the unit to the left side.  This evened grate temps dramatically essentially making it a reverse flow design.

I may have seen a pic of this on another site.   How much open space do you leave on the left side between the wall and the end of the tube?  Is the vent tube just open on the left end? Hmmm.... curious about trying this......

I've been very happy with Don Godkes Downdraft and I definitely recommend them!  Don is very knowledgeable...

I did a cheapo $3 elbow and a short length of pipe to get it to grate level. It did reduce pellet consumption,  but did nothing to stabilize temps left to right. Did help some on set and actual temp.

Now granted, it may not work as well as a Godke's downdraft as I've never seen anyone do a direct comparison test.
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I use the exact same thing!! Just have to modify the end to get it to fit into chimney. 

Are the elbows steel or aluminium?  All I can find around here are aluminium.  I guess that would fine for low temp smoking and just remove it for anything above 300 or so.  Thanks!!  BP

According to GMG use of the downdraft will probably void your warranty.