Temperature cyling

[Seattlecajun]

Hello,

I am a relatively new Bradley digital smoker owner/user (got it July 2014).  When I set the oven to 120 degrees, I notice that the actual temperature cycles up to about 138 degrees.  The ambient temperature outside is in the mid-40's.  Is there a way to tighten the range so it is closer to 120?  I'm trying to get a good, long smoke on some homemade Andouille.  Any guidance would be appreciated.

[dave01]

generally speaking the temps should get a little tighter the longer your meat is in the smoker. I'm no expert on sausage but if your going to be making it more than once or twice I think I would look into getting a PID, you won't regret it

[renoman]

If you are going to mostly make sausage get yourself a PID. The Bradley's temps are all over the map

[Beekeeper]

I have made venison summer sausage twice in my year-old Bradley Digital, and I won't even think about trying another batch before I purchase a PID from Auber Instruments.  Both batches I have done consisted of 5, 3 lb. sticks.  There is just no way to trust the temp swings to be consistent enough to produce repeatable results.

The first batch came out very nice, but I had a devil of a time getting the temps right, and to hold, on the second batch.  That 2nd batch was just OK, but not nearly as nice as the first.  I monitor the temps of the box and meat with an Igrill unit, and without a PID, one does not have the temperature control that is needed for sausage. 

Other than this little issue, I really like this Bradley Digital Smoker!

[Salmonsmoker]

Welcome to the forum SC, just a bit to the north of you. I've had a PID for so long I almost can't remember having to deal with the temp. swings like you're experiencing. The PID and a small circulation fan inside the box have virtually eliminated having to change the rack positions and the 180 degree rack spin. (it's hotter up the back where the element is located) I smoke a lot of salmon and use 4 temp. settings for the process. I've set the PID with the  temps. and time at each level and all I have to do is flip on the toggle switch. Monitoring is minimal and frees me up for other stuff while smoking.