Modifications Done

[kickedback]

I finally got around to finishing up all the mods to the OBS. I started a couple weeks ago, but had to take a break to get ice fishing gear around. Warmer temps put me back to original task, no ice yet. I did the dual element mod with dual temp sensors for an extra safety measure. Did the circulation fan mod with 2 1/2 inch fan blade. Replaced the front faceplate that was cracked and added the front feet pegs to the bottom. My only question is, Do I have to run auto-tune for the Auber PID to compensate for the dual elements? and with or without fan on? Guess that's 2 questions. I'm ready to do some jerky to give the fan circulation a try.

[devo]

Do I have to run auto-tune for the Auber PID to compensate for the dual elements?

I never did with mine and found that every temp probe I put in there to compare temps it's almost right on +or- a few degrees

[TedEbear]

My only question is, Do I have to run auto-tune for the Auber PID to compensate for the dual elements? and with or without fan on?

If the PID is currently programmed to maintain a certain temp based on a 500W element and it is suddenly controlling twice that amount I recommend running the auto tune so it can relearn certain parameters.  Run the auto tune with the fan on, if that's how you you will be using the smoker.

[kickedback]

Should I have the smoker loaded with meat? I think I read somewhere that this is how to run the auto tune with meat in smoker. I have some GB Jerky to do anyways,to test everything out. Thanks for your input.

[TestRocket]

kickedback

I good while back right after I did the second element mod I came across a post that said all you had to do is change ?P? value in the PID to 140.

Its initial settings are:
?P? = 70
?I? = 600
?D? = 150

So change the ?P? value and leave the others alone and you will be good. This is how I have my PID setup and it?s almost always within + or ? 1 deg.  ;D

*** This is only for adding the second 500 watt element.

[TedEbear]

Should I have the smoker loaded with meat? I think I read somewhere that this is how to run the auto tune with meat in smoker. I have some GB Jerky to do anyways,to test everything out. Thanks for your input.

Yes, you're supposed to have something in the cooking chamber to simulate a load of meat.  I wrapped several cold bricks in aluminum foil and stuck them on different racks.