This document is an installation manual for the Traeger Digital Thermostat Kit (BAC236), designed for Traeger Wood Pellet Grills. The kit is compatible with grill models BBQ055, BBQ070, BBQ07E, and BBQ075. The primary function of this kit is to upgrade existing Traeger grills from a 3-speed smoker control to a digital thermostat, offering a new level of precise temperature control for cooking.
Function Description:
The Traeger Digital Thermostat Kit (BAC236) replaces the original 3-speed smoker control with a digital thermostat, allowing users to set and maintain specific cooking temperatures. This enhances the grilling experience by providing more consistent heat and better control over the cooking process. The digital control features a temperature dial with settings ranging from Smoke (approximately 160-180°F) to High (350-400°F), with intermediate settings at 180°F, 225°F, 275°F, 325°F, and 375°F. The digital display shows the current temperature in Fahrenheit. The system includes an RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) sensor that measures the internal grill temperature, feeding this information back to the digital control for accurate regulation. The control also manages the auger drive motor, draft inducer fan, and hot rod to maintain the desired temperature.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Part Number: BAC236 (Digital Thermostat Kit)
- Digital Thermostat Control (P/N BAC283): The main control unit with a digital display and temperature dial.
- 7" RTD - Temperature Sensor Rod (P/N BAC194): The sensor responsible for measuring grill temperature. It is mounted inside the grill on the left end.
- Voltage: 90v-240v, indicating broad compatibility with various electrical systems.
- Wiring: The system uses Molex connectors for various components (power cord, auger drive motor, draft inducer fan, hot rod) and a green terminal block for the RTD wires.
- Fuse Holder: Located on the back of the control for circuit protection.
- Auger Motor On-Time (P-Settings): The auger motor on-time remains constant at 15 seconds across all P-settings.
- Auger Motor Off-Time (P-Settings):
- P-2 (factory default): 65 seconds off-time.
- P-3: 75 seconds off-time.
- P-4: 85 seconds off-time.
- P-5: 95 seconds off-time.
- Increasing the P-setting number decreases the smoking temperature, and vice-versa.
Usage Features:
- Precise Temperature Control: Users can select specific temperatures using the dial, from "Smoke" for low-and-slow cooking to "High" for searing.
- Digital Display: Provides a clear, real-time readout of the grill's internal temperature.
- P-Setting Adjustment (Smoke Function): The digital controller includes a hidden micro-switch accessible via a small hole on the faceplate. This allows users to adjust the "P" settings (P-0 to P-5) to fine-tune the smoke function, especially in varying environmental conditions. This adjustment influences the auger motor's off-time, thereby affecting the smoking temperature. It is recommended to contact customer service before making these adjustments.
- Automatic Shut Down Cycle: The digital control for the BBQ020 (and likely other compatible models) includes an automatic shutdown cycle. When the dial knob is set to the "off" position, the Draft Induction Fan continues to run for ten minutes to burn off excess pellets in the firepot, then powers off.
- Compatibility: Designed for specific Traeger grill models (BBQ055, BBQ070, BBQ07E, BBQ075), ensuring a seamless upgrade.
- Initial Firing Instructions: Detailed steps are provided for the first use, including charging the auger tube with pellets, confirming fan and hot rod operation, filling the hopper with Traeger BBQ pellets, and allowing pellets to ignite and flame.
- Subsequent Start-Up: Simplified instructions for starting the grill after the initial firing, involving opening the door, setting the dial to "Smoke," waiting for ignition, and then closing the door and setting the desired temperature.
- Grill Seasoning: Before cooking the first batch of food, users are instructed to season the grill by running it at "HIGH" for 45 minutes with the door closed.
- Pre-heating: The grill should be pre-heated for approximately 10 minutes with the door closed before placing food inside.
Maintenance Features:
- Installation Process: The manual provides step-by-step instructions for removing the existing 3-speed smoker control, installing the new RTD sensor, and wiring/mounting the digital thermostat control. This includes detailed diagrams for RTD placement and wiring.
- Troubleshooting Assistance: In case of issues, users are advised to contact Traeger Technical Support.
- Recovery Process (Fire Out during Smoking): If the fire goes out while "Smoking," users are instructed to turn the controller to the OFF POSITION, ensure the grill is cool to the touch, and remove all unburned pellets and ash from the firepot using a Shop-Vac before attempting to restart. This prevents "over firing" and potential damage.
- Cleaning: For ease of clean-up, it is recommended to line the Grease Drain Pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil.
- Part Ordering: Information is provided on how to order replacement parts or accessories, including contact details for Traeger Pellet Grills, LLC, Technical Support, Parts Department, and Sales/Order Desk.
- Safety Precautions: Emphasizes disconnecting the power cord from the electrical outlet before any removal or installation to prevent electrical shock. Also warns against touching the hot rod during initial firing.
- Older Model Grill Replacement: Specific instructions and visual aids are included for installing the digital thermostat in older model grills that may have a smaller control cutout, detailing how to manage the fuse and wiring during insertion.
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