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So is there a secret to getting the
AMNPS good and lit to ensure it doesn't go out? Or do you just light it and let it smoke for a few mins before putting out in the MES 30?
Hoops I commend you, you keep statring its an MES30 which does make a difference in the air flow as alluded to by Workstghr.
First and foremost, if you are going to use a device which is going to create smoke for in excess of 12 hours, spend a bit more than a few mins ensuring its working. I always (or try to), let mine start and establish a good burn for at least 30 mins, while I allow the MES toPreheat to 275 degree. This is before I add any meat. It not only starts to smoke better but you get so much air flow to the AMPs, it would makes happy sounds while starting up I think.
Air flow in the MES30, I use no modifiers that I know of only I changed where I set the AMP's and I crack open the reload tube for more air flow.
Heres your suction or air inlet, the three holes are located in the end of the reload tuibe.
As a safety concern which I have now learned, you should not crack this open and try to use both the chip tray and the AMPs together. When cracking or unlocking the loader to allow more oxygen into the smoker you offer the chips a chance to combust, basically making a small explosion in the box. I learned because it blew my reloader out the side of the unit. This wouldn't have happened had the reloader been securly locked in place.
If you'll only use the AMPs this can not happen. If you only use the chips the same. But combinded there is a possibility.
When using my AMPs I relocate the resting point to move it closer into the air flow. This is where it is designed to be resting.
Below is where I relocated mine to without any mods just moved the dang tray. Set one of the grates on the smoke box and the AMPs on it. Yes it is unstable, but just remember that it is. It made all the difference in keeping my MES lit without ever a worry.
My suggestion to any new AMPs user is to fill a line and burn it outside the box first. That way if you have any problems you know what it is not involving. Most problems come back to air flow, some from pellets, and some from hurried lighting practices.
I like my AMPs it works just fine when you get used to it. You'll not need to worry about air flow in the MES40, I guess it has to do with the size of the cooking chamber cause the reloader and the vent are the same.
I hope something here helps ya. But if ya lite it well, ya should have no problems.