Actually, Dave, it doesn't really require much in the way of metal working skills. I'm a human resources supervisor with little formal training in the manual arts and I've done it a number of times with just a hacksaw blade in a sabre saw and installed the ring in the top of the drum using RTV high temp silicone caulking compound. If I can do it, anyone can, including my brother.
If you look closely at the top of the drum in the photo below, you can see what I'm talking about.
D.J. It was good to meet you yesterday. Keep us posted on your drum's progress!
Sterling
HEY!
I resemble that remark!
Guys, Sterling's method is about the easiest I've seen. My current UDS has a weber lid, with the lower edge pried out to fit on the barrel. Works just fine. Maybe, I'll try the weber base ring as an adapter.
After helping him make a dozen or so, the method is really quite easy
I use 1 thermometer just below the lower level, and a turkey fryer therm pushed into one of the lid vents. Both read different, because of the levels.
steve