Another MES40 with GFI issues

[bigfurmn]

I remember lots of people talking about this issue at one point but I suck and can't find the thread again, so I apologize. MES40 with legs bought at Sams a few years back. Haven't used it a lot in the last two years or so but worked perfectly last time it did, until it didn't. Plugged it in last weekend and after about 5 minutes it tripped the GFI. Seemed to be warming up fine before that. I have a Pit Boss pellet pooper also that I use more often but want to try a few more ideas on the MES. thanks in advance for the advice!

 

[chef jimmyj]

Here you go my friend...JJ

Masterbuilt Tripping GFI Outlet

Well, dang. Uncovered my MBS this morning, set the PID controller to 250 and let it come up to temp. Then I put in two butts and lit the AMAZN pellet smoker and waited for the box to come back up to temp. Before it got there it tripped the GFI. First time that has ever happened. Tried several...

www.smokingmeatforums.com

 

[bigfurmn]

Thanks Jimmy! Trying to search things in my phone is not easy.

 

[bigfurmn]

Crap... Just figured out between work and a 17 month old fixing this might not be in my budget or time. Anyone want a nice MB40???

 

[cmayna]

Thought about running the smoker thru a PID controller such as an Auber, bypassing the stock controller altogether? There's tons of threads about this.

 

[bigfurmn]

Very true. I just don't have the time or money right now. If I have an extra couple bucks I'm getting something for that little man.

 

[splendorlex]

Very true. I just don't have the time or money right now. If I have an extra couple bucks I'm getting something for that little man.

I had this kind of issue, and all I needed to do was bend the metal cover away from the heating element a bit. Apparently, over time it slowly started to come into contact with the element, and that caused a short. It's been fine ever since.