Use the Minion Method, be patient and remember it takes about 15min for an adjustment to take effect, use only a few small pieces of wood. Oh yeah cover the water pan with two wide strips of foil before you fill it it will make clean up easier. I use sand in my pan but I'm assuming that you are going to use water for your first cook.
Don't fight the temps if it sets up a little higher than you want it go with it..the same with if it's a little lower. If you are looking you aren't cooking..leave the lid on as much as possible.
Couple of questions
What kind of charcoal?
Why kind of wood?
Water/sand in pan?
What kind off ribs?
Are you going to use the texas crutch?
Once the ribs are on think about going to the store and picking up some chicken thighs and a fattie. You can toss that stuff on after the ribs are done and you still have charcoal left.
Have fun and if you have any questions the people on this fourm are good to provide answers..you might get 10 different answers to the same question but...