PID question

[Tacklewasher2]

I have an old 4 rack smoker (blue, not black). I've added a PID but have a question as to the wiring.

I've split the output wire and ran it to the SSR so both controls still do something. Am I better off terminating the normal output wire and powering the SSR straight from power in?

First use with the PID and it seemed to take longer to heat up and never got to temp. Was just doing a steak, so not a long time in smoke.

Thinking of putting in a 900 w as well.