Auger not pausing

EdGs · Aug 3, 2024

Hello all,

I was given a PBV3PW1 vertical pellet smoker that, as soon as power is switched on, the auger runs constantly.

The smoker is 3 to 4 years old, and is well used, but well taken care of, so I figured I would see if I could fix it.

I am going to troubleshoot the board tomorrow, as I am hopeful that I can verify if its a component thats easily replaceable. If I cannot easily fix it, I will replace the controller board.

Anybody here have similar issues? I am stoked to have the smoker and looking forward to fixing and using it.

Thanks in advance.

Cowboy1955 · Aug 3, 2024

Welcome from Texas to the group!
Hopefully you get it fixed.
Stay safe down there with storms coming in

EdGs · Aug 3, 2024

Thanks very much. Looks like rain, maybe some wind.

brewersfan73 · Aug 3, 2024

First thing I would check is if any of the wiring harnesses are swapped. There was someone on here a while ago whose auger was wired to the fan harness, so the auger ran continuously. Other than that, I can't help. Good luck.

EdGs · Aug 3, 2024

AFAIK, not an issue with this unit, as the person that gave it to me used it quite often, and never opened it up.

There are only 3 plugs on the controller board, 2 for the probes, and 1 for the AC power. The wiring for the auger, fan, igniter, etc. are all hardwired on the pcb (there may be plugs closer to the fan and auger, I haven't opened it up that far yet).

I will get a closer look at the wiring tomorrow. Best case will be shorted triac on the controller ($2 and a little time to fix). Fingers crossed.

Mike From R.I. · Aug 4, 2024

Welcome from Rhode Island. Customer service will have a controller and help you trouble shoot. 877 303 3134

EdGs · Aug 4, 2024

Mike From R.I. said:
Welcome from Rhode Island. Customer service will have a controller and help you trouble shoot. 877 303 3134

Thank you very much. Looks like I will have to give them a buzz. Triac and associated components check good, so most likely something with the main control chip.

I don't think this unit is even 5 years old. The person that gave it to me got this one as a replacement when their original caught fire shortly after purchase.

It's giving me mixed feelings, but I will give them a call monday.

EdGs · Aug 4, 2024

Update: after completely removing the controller and using a q-tip and some alcohol around the main chip and other areas where there were specks of grease?, it looks like the auger might be working ok.

I emptied the pellets, so I only had a small amount in the auger tube, but it seems like it stopped when it should.

I'm gonna read through the manual to make sure I do the checking right, and then I think this unit could benefit from a thorough cleaning, the glass on the door is solid black with buildup.

Fingers crossed, I'm not giving up just yet.

Cowboy1955 · Aug 4, 2024

Great news hopefully your on the right track

Sparky · Aug 4, 2024

Welcome to the club

Freedbyjc · Aug 10, 2024

EdGs said:
AFAIK, not an issue with this unit, as the person that gave it to me used it quite often, and never opened it up.

There are only 3 plugs on the controller board, 2 for the probes, and 1 for the AC power. The wiring for the auger, fan, igniter, etc. are all hardwired on the pcb (there may be plugs closer to the fan and auger, I haven't opened it up that far yet).

I will get a closer look at the wiring tomorrow. Best case will be shorted triac on the controller ($2 and a little time to fix). Fingers crossed.

Definitely some crossed wire…
The wiring diagram is on the silver label under the hopper lid. And on the PITBOSS website.

EdGs · Aug 17, 2024

Update:

Got the new controller installed. Mixed Traeger Hickory pellets with Pit Boss Fruitwood pellets 1:1.

Fired up the smoker, and she worked just fine. There is a little condensation on the inside of the controller asssembly, hopefully it clears up after use.

I did find out that the built in probe of the Pit Boss is reading ~ 25° low. I have a ThermPro 2 probe that I placed on the 2 shelves in the cooking zone.