MES 30" won't go past 235f

[LaLaMatt]

Folks - ok, this is my new ACE Masterbuilt 30" (gen 1) unit. I did the 3 hour burn in and my ThermPro (which I boil tested) had it right at the 275F I'd set it at - I thought I was good. Today is my first actual smoke - prime rib! I'm struggling to get the temp up. I have now gotten it to my target temp of 235F - but that's by setting the unit to 275F - so obviously, if I need to cook anything at a higher temp then 235F I can't do it.

What's the cause of this issue? Anything to try other then calling Masterbuilt? Does a replacement heat element normally fix this?

thanks!!!
Matt

 

[mosparky]

Feel free to follow this thread, as I am having nearly the same issue with my Gen 2.5 http://smokingmeatforums.com/index.php?threads/open-up-an-mes-gen-2-5.269948/

If you have volt/ohm meter and know how to use it, I can walk you thru it

 

[LaLaMatt]

ok, I have a decent multimeter, but haven't done more then take battery at outlet readings from it. Is it complicated?

I assume the fact that there was a 5lb prime rib in there shouldn't have effected the temp right? I mean - it should still be able to get up to 275f...it might take a little longer etc., but it should get there right...?

 

[mosparky]

No the rib should not effect it that much.
Does the coil glow orange the whole time ? Does the remote and control panel light indicate heating the entire time ?

 

[LaLaMatt]

well anyhow - Prime Rib came out ok. I think it was cooked well, but perhaps a bit *too* smokey. Actually took a bit of getting use to! I don't think I've had smoked prime rib before, and this one was really really smokey. It was cooked nice inside etc. I did one single row on the AMAZE tray, and that kept the smoke going for 3 1/2 hours - using hickory pellets. Cooked at 235F for just over 4hrs to 130F IT, and then a 10min rest.