Correct, that is absurd. Everyone fully cleans the V-tray and bowl each use. I seldom bother washing the bottom drip tray, just wipe it once in a while esp if you did a greasy butt or something that splashed grease around. Leave the inside of the cabinet alone as much as possible. Quick wipe here and there is all. I use a wire brush to knock off flaking smoke "flavour" off the walls and doors, but just the stuff that's pealing as it can wind up on your food[xx(]
I wire brush the smoke generator a few times and year, and blow it out with compressed air as the pucks flake and the sawdust builds up.
I asked this question as a newbie and the response was quite strong - do not clean out the tower as described in the manual. I listened and have not had any trouble in nearly 2 years of smoking now.
Important almost forgot - wipe down your door seal as often as you can remember. The smoke builds up a film, stronger sometimes it seems, than "super glue". Just a damp papertowel makes a world of difference in how your door operates, and I use a soapy J-cloth once in a while just for good measure.
Good luck and welcome
Edited for spelling only
<font color="green">whitetailfan</font id="green">
"Nice Rack"
Lethbridge, AB
