Counterweights for heavy doors

[Mo Smoke]

I am planning on a single door for my 125 gallon Reverse Flow Smoker build. I know that the door will be heavy. I would like to add a counterweight to make it easier to lift up. Can you explain how it works and how to construct and install one? BTW does the counterweight make it easier to lower the door safely as well or is there some sort of damper that can be installed to help with this?

[Smokeone]

A counterweight should help both ways, if constructed right. Most that I have seen take two pieces of tubing welded as standoffish on the door. They are mounted on an angle facing up and back. Then a connecting tube is welded between the two uprights. You then add weight (scrap metal, rebar) in the connecting tube until it feels right. Once it's right weld the scrap in place, and cap the tube ends. Look in the reverse flow section, you should find some pics.

[Rodcrafter]

[Clover Ridge Smokers]

S1 Nailed it. I use a 60 degree angle on most of my counterweights.