DBS Newbie - Smoker Temp. Problem

keithstg · October 15, 2007, 06:06:36 AM

Hello Everyone,

After lurking here for a while, I purchased a 4 rack DBS, which was delivered two weeks ago. So far I've found one major problem - the oven portion of the DBS will not come to temperature. For example, this weekend I attempted to smoke some ribs - I set the oven to 220 degrees and waited for the box to come to temp. However, after an hour, the box temp was only 65. Turning on the smoker raised the temp to 145, but that was the max. It seems as though the heating element will not turn on, or will not turn on hot enough to warm the box.

I have the 120 volt model - could there be an issue with my electrical outlet, or is there something I'm missing? I'll rig an extension cord tonight to see if the outlet was the issue, but aside from that is there anything I should try?

Thanks very much!

KyNola · October 15, 2007, 06:24:56 AM

Check to be sure the cables between the smoke generator and the box are securely plugged in to the back of the box. Sometimes they feel like they are adequately plugged in when in fact they aren't. Hope this helps!

KyNola

keithstg · October 15, 2007, 06:27:18 AM

Thanks KyNola - I checked the cables this weekend, and they were securely plugged in. Any other ideas?

Wildcat · October 15, 2007, 07:06:51 AM

Welcome to the forum. I have the OBS. You may want to check and make sure the heating element is seated properly. When doing so, be sure that you do not over tighten the screws because the ceramic will crack. It may be a fuse/circuit breaker issue between the plug and heating element. Does the element glow when turned on? My knowledge in this area is very limited, but common sense dictates that power must get from point A to point B. Have you tried setting the digital temp to a higher temp?

keithstg · October 15, 2007, 07:36:42 AM

The heating element does not glow, at least that I have seen. I am thinking that power is either not reaching the box, or that the element itself is malfunctioning. Looking at the element, the left side of the element appears to be screwed on straight, while the right side is on a bit of an angle. I did not change, or move the element in any way since recieving the unit two weeks ago. Is there a need to readjust the heating element or to modify the fuse in any way prior to starting the smoker up?

Thanks so much for all of your help!

Wildcat · October 15, 2007, 08:11:11 AM

Not sure about the digital, but I suspect the element is installed the same way as the OBS. In the OBS, there are 2 screws on either side of the element that holds the element in place. It also holds the reflector and a wire cage to protect the element. Simply take out the screws (might as well clean the reflector while you are at it) then reassemble making sure everything is properly in place.

Mr Walleye · October 15, 2007, 08:38:22 AM

Keith

When you plug the unit in and turn it on what does the display show?
Knowing what the display is indicateing may narrow it down.

Nine times out of ten it is a cord problem as indicated by KyNola. Make sure you work (wiggle) the plugs in really well. Have you checked the fuse?

Mike

keithstg · October 15, 2007, 09:24:29 AM

Hey Mr.Walleye,

When I plug in the unit and turn on the oven, I get a "set temperature: reading on the right of the display, and a "oven temp" reading on the right of the display. I am able to set the temperature to any setting I desire, however, there is absolutely no movement in the "oven temp" until the smoke generator is turned on, and then I am maxing out at 130-150. Should I see more on the display when the oven has been turned on?

I'll unscrew and check the fuse tonight as well. I have not checked it - I assumed that since it was new I didn't need to, but worth a look.

Thanks for all of your replies! Can't wait to get smokin'...

Mr Walleye · October 15, 2007, 11:08:50 AM

It sounds like your display is showing correctly which is kinda odd. Usually if it is a plug situation the display is either showing an error or nothing at all. I have heard of wires becoming unplugged inside the generator, usually caused by shipping. I would check the fuse but I would also call Bradley just in case it is something more serious. They will certianly look after you, for me they have always been great to deal with any issues.

I know if it was me I would trace the power from the generator to the tower in order to find where & why it's not working. Having said that not everybody is comfortable with that and certianly a call to Bradley would be the right thing to do.

Keep us posted how you make out.

Mike

keithstg · October 16, 2007, 05:20:46 AM

So, after screwing in the fuse a bit more, the smoker is now fully operational! Looking forward to smoking up some brisket this weekend!

Thanks very much for all of your help! I look forward to contributing here!

Mr Walleye · October 16, 2007, 07:11:50 AM

Excellent Keith! ;D

Ya gotta like simple repairs!

Mike

Duster · October 16, 2007, 04:11:05 PM

getting on this one kinda late but it sounds like ya got it figured out :) the only thing I might add is that my OBS has a hard time running off a long extension cord but congrats on the repair Keith. looking forward to hearing more from your adventures.