How to route probe wires
- Dirtytires
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How to route probe wires
I just purchased a couple of new thermoworks probes. How does everyone get the leads into the smoker? I'm going to be running a total of 4 leads off 2 meters into a newly built reverse flow. I have a gasket on this one and thicker/stiffer leads so I'm not sure running them thru the door gap is the best way as I don't want to damage the leads.
I am considering a "port" of some kind...maybe with a threaded plug but that would mean the leads have to be fished thru a hole each time. Not a big deal for the grate temps but I usually punch my food probes in while in the kitchen so I don't have to touch raw meat outside while I stick it.
Other thought is to run a small horizontal cut in the cook chamber at the bottom of each side of the door opening. I could just set the leads in the groove and the door would not hit them when closed. Issue with this is th gap and how to seal it?
I have the same issue in the warmer cabinet....
What works for you guys?
I am considering a "port" of some kind...maybe with a threaded plug but that would mean the leads have to be fished thru a hole each time. Not a big deal for the grate temps but I usually punch my food probes in while in the kitchen so I don't have to touch raw meat outside while I stick it.
Other thought is to run a small horizontal cut in the cook chamber at the bottom of each side of the door opening. I could just set the leads in the groove and the door would not hit them when closed. Issue with this is th gap and how to seal it?
I have the same issue in the warmer cabinet....
What works for you guys?
- Pete Mazz
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Re: How to route probe wires
I fish mine in each cook. Buy a pack of cheap food grade latex gloves. I use them when I'm handling food away from a sink.
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- Squiggle
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Re: How to route probe wires
Check out Bkndsdls idea in his thread, pretty nifty using light mounting tube threads. I'm sure you won't loose too much through the holes & if you're worried you can always stuff a piece of rock wool insulation in there with the probe lead. 

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- Rodcrafter
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Re: How to route probe wires
I normally just drill a hole big enough to fit all the wires through, then put a bolt in it when not using probes. On an insulated cabinet the lamp tube is ideal.
jm2cw
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- Dirtytires
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Re: How to route probe wires
Appreciate the replies.....but I really don't want to use a hole. I've got the k-plugs on the leads so will have to run the probe end thru the hole. The grate probes have clips on the end so I would need a pretty big hole for them.
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Re: How to route probe wires
Hi,
I've seen pictures about leading the wires through the chimney (if it's a gravity feed).
I've seen pictures about leading the wires through the chimney (if it's a gravity feed).
- Dirtytires
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Re: How to route probe wires
As stated, it's a reverse flow....has a 25 inch chimney making that not a practical solution.
The end goal is to stick the probe in the meat in the kitchen and plop the meat on the grate without having to fish the wires thru anything. Keeps my hands clean, all the mess in the kitchen, and the smoker door open for a minimial amount of time.
The end goal is to stick the probe in the meat in the kitchen and plop the meat on the grate without having to fish the wires thru anything. Keeps my hands clean, all the mess in the kitchen, and the smoker door open for a minimial amount of time.
- Squiggle
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Re: How to route probe wires
Wow, those K-plugs are massive!
What about making a slightly wider channel/port in the CC door frame(1-2") & double up the seal? Then you could just sandwich the cables between the seal & then when you shut the door it will have full seal contact too

What about making a slightly wider channel/port in the CC door frame(1-2") & double up the seal? Then you could just sandwich the cables between the seal & then when you shut the door it will have full seal contact too

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- Rodcrafter
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Re: How to route probe wires
I would have to say that I would cut a bigger hole than needed and make a wooden plug to allow the wires, then plug the extra hole space
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