After failing at several attempts to forge weld with a liquid fueled forge, I built this coal /charcoal cracker  with some stuff I had laying around the shop. I think it will serve me well.

It should serve you well, resembles the one I use.

Open up the air holes. Air causes fuel to burn not more fuel. More air equals more heat.

 

These brake drum forge post have a 2 inch and a 3 inch air pipe. The three inch pipe works better with two cross bars. I used 2 pieces of 3/8 round bar in the final build.

 

This is a 2-1/5 inch pipe with two pieces of 1/4 inch round bar for a grate.

Thanks Glenn, I will open it up. Probably help more ash to fall too. Should I put clay in the drum or should I be ok ?