what wood for seasoning?

[DoubleJ]

Which wood would be better for seasoning a new smoker?  Apple or Mesquite?  I plan to smoke primarily with apple or alder once I get it up and going.

[Kc_Kracker]

i personally rub the walls down with veggie oil then use something really thick like hickory or mesquite, usually hickory. apple and alder are a light thin smoke and dont take near as fast. 

[Hawgdawg]

IMO i don't think it matters. I would use what I had most of or the cheaper alder. good luck.

[Kc_Kracker]

100% true, i just use a thicker smoke so i can be done fast 

[DoubleJ]

Do you season the grates as well or keep those clean and spotless?

[Blacklab]

I keep my grates like my weber wire brush 

[NRA4LIFE]

Another vote for hickory here.  I bought a large shallow tub to soak my grates in, especially after doing fish.  A little automatic dishwashing liquid and an overnight soak and then hit them with the powerwasher gets them squeeky clean.  Be care using alder, I find the taste a little bitter and you can get a pitchy taste if you put too much smoke on.  Hickory, cherry and maple for me.

[DoubleJ]

Using mesquite to season the new smoker.

Will be smoking occasionally with apple, mostly my pork shoulders.

Most everything else will be with alder because I have an endless supply for free already cut up and dried in my back yard.  Been using it to smoke things for years and like it well enough.

[Blacklab]

Doublej for kicks and giggles down the road you got a try pecan. Somtimes hard to fine though well worth it imo  gl and enjoy