Installing a Probe Port

  • Some of the links on this forum allow SMF, at no cost to you, to earn a small commission when you click through and make a purchase. Let me know if you have any questions about this.
SmokingMeatForums.com is reader supported and as an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases.

JustinLoos

Fire Starter
Original poster
May 17, 2020
49
45
Perrysburg, Ohio
Hi, I have a Horizon 20” Classic offset (0.25” steel) smoker. I’ve been running wired temp probes (ThermoWorks smoke) to my meats. As there is no probe port I run the wires under my cooking chamber door causing a continuous small leak. I run 2-4 probes during a cook. What port do you recommend adding?

I need it to be able to accommodate 2-4 wired probes and be usable with 1/4” steel.

IMG_1631.jpeg
 
  • Like
Reactions: JLeonard
Not sure what you mean by "adding" a probe port.
Probe ports are just holes drilled in the side with a little flap that swings down to close when not in use.
 
  • Like
Reactions: JustinLoos
Here is one option. If you think you need a larger one, they also make a 'smoke hole' which is designed as a vent, but can also work as a probe port.

 
By “adding” I mean drilling into my smoker above the grate and using some kind of metal or silicone device to accommodate the probes.
 
I'd recommend drilling a hole about 2-1/4 times the width of the widest part of the probe.
The more probes you have going through it will make the hole smaller for the next probe.

Then add a probe port cover large enough to cover the hole.
 
  • Like
Reactions: JustinLoos
I would run all four through the stack side, between the stack and the front, just above the grate. I'd also make a little mount for the display device. That would keep all that mess out of the way of the door, shelf and rack.
 
  • Like
Reactions: JustinLoos
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: JustinLoos
I came here to post about cord grips but see I'm late to the party
 
  • Like
Reactions: JustinLoos
I can sneak mine through the vertical cook chamber, but I would have a hard time drilling a hole in my smoker.
6DB677F3-D595-4D65-8638-0D4F7B8595E4.jpeg

I would certainly look at all your options first. I guess it’s not very tough to weld the hole back up if you don’t like it
 
  • Like
Reactions: JustinLoos
I can sneak mine through the vertical cook chamber, but I would have a hard time drilling a hole in my smoker.
View attachment 671196
I would certainly look at all your options first. I guess it’s not very tough to weld the hole back up if you don’t like it
Running the cords through the stack is definitely the easiest solution.

That’s a nice setup you have there! You got those dogs to guard the smoker, right?
 
Running the cords through the stack is definitely the easiest solution.

That’s a nice setup you have there! You got those dogs to guard the smoker, right?
Thanks. My pups are always close when a smoker fires up.
 
SmokingMeatForums.com is reader supported and as an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases.
Great deal on LEM Grinders!

Latest posts

Hot Threads

Clicky