Is your Borniak smoke generator letting you down with a spiral that’s jammed or twisted? Don’t panic!
A stuck spiral can halt your smoking plans, but often, it’s a problem you can tackle yourself with a bit of patience and the right approach. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of diagnosing and potentially fixing a twisted spiral in your Borniak smoke generator.
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Understanding the Problem: Why Spirals Get Stuck
The spiral inside your Borniak smoke generator is responsible for pushing wood chips through to the heating element, creating that delicious smoke we all crave. A spiral can get stuck for several reasons, including:
Twisting or Distortion: The spiral can become twisted or deformed, preventing it from moving smoothly.
Wood Chip Size: Using wood chips that are too large or uneven in size can cause jams. Borniak Smoke Generator works perfectly with 2-4mm wood chips. Don’t use large pieces of wood chips to avoid issues with stuck spiral
Buildup of Residue: Over time, residue can accumulate, causing the spiral to stick.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Stuck Spiral
Here’s a breakdown of how to approach the problem:
1. Assessment and Initial Attempts
Identify the Issue: If the spiral has pushed itself inwards, creating a twisted bulge, this is a sign of distortion.
Gentle Manipulation: Try using a tool like the handle of a hammer to gently push the spiral back into its proper position. Proceed with caution and avoid excessive force.
2. Removing the Spiral (If Necessary)
If simply pushing the spiral back isn’t enough, you’ll need to remove it:
Loosening the Spiral: Using long-nosed pliers, carefully grip the spiral and twist it anti-clockwise to loosen it. This can be a delicate process.
Extraction: Once loosened, gently push the spiral out from the outside. This might require some wiggling and turning.
Careful Handling: Be extremely careful when extracting the spiral. Inside the generator there is a tube the spiral passes through, so do not pull it out with the spiral.
3. Inspecting and Diagnosing the Damage
Once the spiral is out, examine it carefully:
Check for Twists and Bends: Look for any noticeable bends, twists, or deformities in the spiral.
Spiral Integrity: A healthy spiral has a clear, unbroken thread. If the thread is missing or significantly damaged, the spiral may be beyond repair.
The End is Important: Examine the end of the spiral, where the wood chips are dispensed. Ensure this end is properly shaped and aligned.
4. Repair Attempts (With Caution)
Straightening: If the spiral is only slightly bent, you might be able to carefully straighten it. However, be aware that forcing it can cause further damage. Use pliers to gently manipulate bent sections.
Assess Repair: Once straightened test for free movement and damage. If the damage is significant, move to replacement.
5. Replacement (If Repair Fails)
Source a Replacement: If the spiral is too damaged, you’ll need to purchase a new Borniak Smoke Generator Spiral from Smokehouse.Guru
Install Carefully: Carefully insert the new spiral into the smoke generator, ensuring it’s properly aligned.
6. Cleaning and Prevention
Clean the Generator: Before reassembling, clean the inside of the smoke generator, removing any accumulated residue. A wire brush can be helpful for removing stubborn deposits.
Use Appropriate Wood Chips: Only use wood chips specifically designed for smoke generators, the best wood chips are 2-4mm size from Borniak. Avoid using overly large or uneven chips. We recommend a mix of wood chips up to 2mm – 4mm. If using larger chips, mix with the smaller chips to avoid jamming.
Inspect Wood Chips: Check your wood chips prior to adding to the hopper for large foreign bodies such as pieces of wood over 2 cm.
7. Testing and Fine-Tuning
Reassemble: Once you’ve cleaned the components, reassemble the smoke generator.
Test Run: Fill the hopper with wood chips and run the generator for a short period to ensure the spiral is working correctly and the chips are being fed smoothly.
Observe Smoke Production: Monitor the smoke production to ensure it’s consistent and even.
Important Considerations
Safety First: Always disconnect the smoke generator from the power supply before attempting any repairs.
Gentle Approach: Avoid using excessive force when manipulating the spiral, as this can cause further damage.
Consider a Professional: If you’re unsure about any of these steps, or if the problem persists, it’s always best to consult a qualified appliance technician.
By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and potentially fix a stuck spiral in your Borniak smoke generator, allowing you to get back to creating delicious smoked foods. Remember, prevention is key, so always use appropriate wood chips and clean your generator regularly. Happy smoking!
If you’re interested in learning more about Borniak Smokers, how to cook in Borniak Smoker read our blog post here.