Running Thermometer Wires


 
J

J. E. Goode

New member
I saw the thread posted earlier about notching, and while I'm not opposed to going under the knife, I'm curious how y'all run your probe wires without drilling or cutting your kettles. I'm about to put in an order for a Maverick for my 22.5" OTG, so I'd love some good advice. Thanks!
 
That's what I assumed. What's your process for maneuvering the lid with wires hanging through it to tend the meat, or work the fire?
 
I know you are seeking non drill solutions but this one is quick cheap and easy:
<a href="http://s112.photobucket.com/user/CLAUER55/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zps17f2a93e.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n182/CLAUER55/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zps17f2a93e.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo image_zps17f2a93e.jpg"/></a>

http://m.homedepot.com/p/Halex-1-2-...ater-tight-Conduit-Connector-90661/100170032/

It's a one minute job with a step drill bit. Tape over kettle to prevent porcelain chipping. Drill hole screw in and you are done. You can even buy caps to close off when not in use. It fits two maverick probes perfectly. I've done this on my SJ MINI and kettle. My .02, I've done the vent wiring and it was a pain as the grate probe got tugged out every time. The lid was moved.
 
I've tried the holes and the notch and much prefer the notch, easy in and easy out. You can use a dremel and in about 5 minuets you're done.
 
I'm with Rich on this one. I originally had the grommet mod on my WSM's. When I got the performer I just ran the wires through the top vent. That is definitely a pain, even with the lid holder. Wires always pulling out or in the way.

Then I did the slot mod on my WSM and man, what a difference. MUCH easier. But I just kept putting off doing the performer.

3 days ago I was doing some meatloaf and in a hurry so I grabbed an angle grinder, made 2 cuts, grabbed some pliers, bent off the tab, filed it down and was done. It took about 2 minutes and looks great and was much easier. I cut the notch facing the table and it works great.

I only feel a little bad about cutting it, but that will go away after a few cooks :)
 
If you are cool with monkeying around with threading cables through vents/ports go for it.
However, the slot is the most convenient and user-friendly solution.

If you're not comfortable with slotting, get a gasket kit and leave a small gap in the gasket where you want to run your cables.
The "Mav Gap".
Your lid will bridge across the gap and pressure on the cables will be alleviated.
 
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Food probe, if I'm using one, goes under the lid. Kettle probe through top vent hole. Unless you slam the lid on the food probe wire, and why would you do that, you're fine. I've used the same two Polder food probes for 7 years
 
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