So I plan on smoking a 7lb pork shoulder tomm and I have little to no idea what i'm doing. I'm looking for some rules of thumb, tips pointers in such things as: approx cooking time per pound, temp to maintain in the grill, meat temps, after smoking process (wrapping it in foil), rub ideas (whether or not to use the mustard method)and so on. I have a loose idea of what i need to do, but definitely looking for some expert help. Thanks

All the information you are looking for is here someplace. Since time is short here are a few links. I am sure there are more.

Sounds like you have the one one the right.
Pork Butt Defined

Pork Butt and Pork Shoulder cook the same -
Cooking Pork Butt

Around 1.5-2 hrs per pound at 225-250 degrees, 7lbs - 10-14 hours.

If you don't have the time -
Quick Cook

Russell

Kevin,

I am somewhat of a "newbie" myself. I have found it to be pretty hard to screw up a butt/shoulder. They are very forgiving. here are some of the things I do...

1. cook at lid temp. 235-250
2. cook meat to 195
3. rub only (no mustard)
4. rest for 20 min. then pull (no foil, I feel it softens the bark)

In time, you will find there are very few "right" or "wrong" ways to do things when q'ing. Find what works best for you and you will be ok.

I also would recommend using The Minion Method or some variation of it.

Good luck.