External access for probes

[aris]

Has anyone done a mod on their smoker, or added a hole for a probe of any sort? I'm thinking of using an engine grommet. I suspect they are designed to handle high heats. If I use one small enough, no heat should escape.

http://www.eurocarparts.com/gromets/sea ... rd/grommet

[BBQFanatic]

We used grommets from Cajun Bandit for our WSM the process is documented here, a pretty pain free experience.

http://bbqfanatic.blogspot.co.uk/2012/0 ... ation.html

[aris]

What are these grommets made from?

[BBQFanatic]

Its really just a copper pipe thats been opened at one end so its got a wider opening. Then there is ring that you slide over this pipe that can be locked, as a result it does not move once you have mounted it.

http://cajunbandit.com/i/grommets.jpg

[bencops]

Steve told me they're "flesh tunnels" - something to do with the ear piercing!

i feel a bulk order coming on...

[BBQFanatic]

Dont know about flesh tunnels, but if you want a do it yourself, this will do - Threaded pipe, cut to size and 2x screw either side.

http://www.bbq-brethren.com/forum/showt ... ost2024152

[aris]

I've got my probes. I'm going to try a rubber grommet. If that doesn't work, I'll try something else.

[BBQFanatic]

Really? What temp is the rubber rated to? The outer edge of the wsm gets the brunt of the heat, as will the grommet, I have recorded temps of 400f+ when putting the lid on my smoker, though it quickly drops down.

[aris]

Good point - I will have to get a silicone grommet rated to 250C. Might prove difficult to find in small quantities though - so in the meantime I'll use a 5 or 6mm brass compression fitting, and stuff the hole with a bit of foil if I find it is leaking too much.

[BBQFanatic]

Good thinking. I wouldnt worry about it leaking too much. There is significantly more draw from the top of the smoker than there is from a little hole in the side. Since I have installed mine I hardly get any heat/smoke leakage out of it. There is more lost around the edge of the door and the lip of the lids. Let us know how you get on & pics please!!