The most common causes of a pit boss auger not turning include a jammed or obstructed auger, a broken or worn auger motor, a faulty auger control board, a clogged pellet hopper or auger tube, and a tripped thermal overload switch.
Other possible causes include a malfunctioning auger drive belt or a loose or disconnected wiring connection. It is important to troubleshoot the issue and fix the root cause to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the pellet grill or smoker.
Common Causes of Pit Boss Auger Not Turning: Troubleshooting Steps
The Pit Boss pellet grill is popular for outdoor cooking enthusiasts due to its versatility and ease of use. However, like any mechanical device, it can experience issues preventing it from functioning properly.
One common problem that users may encounter is the auger not turning, which can be caused by several factors. In this article, we will discuss the common causes of this issue and provide troubleshooting steps for each cause.
1. Auger Jamming
The auger feeds the pellets into the firebox to generate heat and smoke. If the auger is jammed, it will be unable to turn and feed the pellets, resulting in the grill not heating up. This can happen due to several reasons, such as:
- Obstruction in the hopper: Sometimes, the pellets can get stuck, preventing the auger from turning. To troubleshoot this issue, remove the pellets from the hopper and inspect it for any obstructions. Clear out any blockages and ensure that the pellets are flowing freely.
- Damaged or bent auger: The auger can get damaged or bent due to regular wear and tear or accidental mishandling. If the auger is bent, it will not be able to turn smoothly, causing it to jam. To resolve this issue, you may need to replace the auger.
2. Lack of Power
The Pit Boss pellet grill requires electricity to power its components, including the auger. If the grill is not receiving sufficient power, the auger may not turn. Some of the reasons for this issue are:
- Dead or faulty batteries: If your grill uses batteries, ensure that they are not dead or faulty. Replace the batteries and try turning on the grill.
- Power outlet issues: Ensure that your power outlet is functioning correctly. Try plugging the grill into a different outlet to rule out any issues with the outlet.
3. Motor or Gear Malfunction
The motor and gear work together to turn the auger. If either of them is malfunctioning, the auger will not turn. Some of the reasons for this issue are:
- Worn-out motor or gear: The motor and gear can wear out over time due to regular use. If they are worn out, they cannot turn the auger. To fix this issue, you may need to replace the motor or gear, depending on which component is faulty.
- Loose or disconnected components: The motor or gear can sometimes become loose or disconnected, preventing them from functioning correctly. Check the motor and gear to ensure they are securely attached to the grill.
4. Wet Pellets
If the pellets in the hopper are wet, they will not be able to flow smoothly through the auger, causing it to jam. Some of the reasons for this issue are:
- Exposure to moisture: If the pellets are exposed to moisture, they can become wet and clump together, making it difficult for them to flow through the auger. Store your pellets in a dry and airtight container to prevent them from getting wet.
- Old or expired pellets: Old or expired pellets can absorb moisture from the air, causing them to become damp. Ensure that you use fresh pellets that are not past their expiration date.
5. Broken or Disconnected Wires
The wires that connect the grill’s components can become damaged or disconnected, preventing the grill from receiving power. Some of the reasons for this issue are:
- Accidental damage: The wires can become damaged due to accidental mishandling or exposure to extreme temperatures. Check the wires for any visible damage and replace them if necessary.
- Loose connections: The wires can become loose over time, preventing the grill from receiving power. Check the connections
How do You Fix a Stuck Auger on Pit Boss Pellet Grill?
If your Pit Boss auger is not turning, it can be frustrating and prevent you from cooking your favorite meals. However, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix this issue. In this article, we will discuss ways to fix a Pit Boss auger that is not turning.
1. Replacing the motor or gears
If the motor or gear is worn out or damaged, it may need to be replaced to fix the auger. To replace these components, you must disassemble the grill and remove the old motor or gear. You can purchase replacement parts from the manufacturer or authorized dealers. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the new components and reassemble the grill.
2. Cleaning the auger
The auger can sometimes become clogged or jammed due to debris or pellet dust buildup. To clean the auger, you must remove it from the grill and disassemble it. Use a soft-bristled brush or vacuum to remove debris or pellet dust buildup. Once the auger is clean, reassemble it and reinstall it in the grill.
3. Repairing or replacing damaged wires
If the wires that connect the grill’s components are damaged or disconnected, you will need to repair or replace them. To do this, you must disassemble the grill and locate the damaged wires. Use a wire stripper to remove the damaged section of the wire and splice in a new section using wire connectors. Alternatively, you can replace the entire wire if it is too damaged to repair.
4. Seeking professional help
If you are uncomfortable troubleshooting or repairing your Pit Boss auger, it is best to seek professional help. Contact the manufacturer or an authorized dealer to schedule a repair appointment. They will be able to diagnose and fix the issue, ensuring that your grill is working correctly.
How do You Clear the Auger Jam Pit Boss Vertical?
Clearing an auger jam in a Pit Boss Vertical pellet grill is a simple process that can be completed in a few easy steps:
- Turn off and unplug the pellet grill from the power source.
- Remove the pellet hopper lid and vacuum out any excess pellets or debris from the hopper.
- Locate the auger motor and remove the screws securing it to the hopper.
- Carefully remove the auger from the hopper, not damaging it.
- Inspect the auger for obstructions or blockages, such as large clumps of pellets or foreign objects.
- If there is an obstruction, use a long, thin object such as a screwdriver or wooden dowel to remove it.
- Check the auger motor for any damage or wear and tear, such as broken or worn gears, and replace it if necessary.
- Reassemble the auger and motor, making sure everything is securely in place.
- Reconnect the auger motor to the hopper and secure it with the screws.
- Replace the hopper lid and plug in the pellet grill.
- Turn on the pellet grill and test the auger to ensure it is running smoothly and the jam has been cleared.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do you know if Auger is jammed?
A jammed auger will typically result in little to no pellets being dispensed, and you may hear a grinding or clicking noise coming from the pellet grill. You can also check the hopper and auger tube for blockages or obstructions.
Q: Why does the auger keeps jamming?
The auger may keep jamming due to several reasons, such as a clogged hopper or auger tube, a broken or worn auger motor, a faulty auger control board, or a jammed or obstructed auger. It is important to troubleshoot and address the root cause to prevent future jams.
Q: How do you test an auger motor?
To test an auger motor, unplug the pellet grill and disconnect the motor from the hopper. Apply power to the motor and observe if the motor spins freely without any unusual noise or vibration. If the motor does not spin or makes grinding or clicking noises, it may be faulty and require replacement.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, a Pit Boss auger not turning can be a frustrating experience for grill enthusiasts. However, there are various reasons why the auger may not turn, including obstructions, motor issues, and control board malfunctions.
It is crucial to identify and address the root cause to prevent further problems and ensure the safe and efficient operation of the pellet grill. By following the troubleshooting steps and seeking professional help if necessary, you can fix the issue and get back to enjoying delicious grilled meals.
