How to install a permanent Auber temperature probe

The permanent probe hole convinced me that I didn't need no stinking switch!  :o  I'll gladly unscrew the back panel if and when I ever have to go back to the OEM controller. 
 
The exact same reason i did not install a switch. I just installed the thermal fuse and called it a day
 
I spent a lot of time with cobalt bits (smaller size) and they were taking forever. I switched to some "quick start bits" with 135º point and they really got things started good and tore through it quickly (seconds). I was using new bits each time too. Having the fine starting tip to really grab into metal helps get things started and tears through the stainless steel fast.
 
Tried titanium. Still no luck. Just going to run auto tne again so I can smoke a brisket tomorrow. Much quicker than multiple trips to get another bit or bits. Anyway I have had great results without the permanent placement for almost a year so will try again later.
BTW only one bit broken but two rendered no-op.
 
I used new titanium and mine went right thru no problem.  I know it sounds stupid but check to make sure your drill is not running in reverse.  I happens some times without you noticing.  Good luck.
 
    DivotMaker--I ordered the wall mounted PID sensor from Auber vice Smokin-it.  I noted something that may need to be reported.  On the Smokin-it site the only wall mounted PID sensor I saw listed is product code: WS-SENSOR05.  On the Auber site it specifically says that this product code will not work on the PID I bought from Smokin-it Product Code: WSD-1200GPH.  From Auber site: "Please note, this sensor will not work for the A, B, and G series WS or WSD controllers (model number WS-XXXXA, WS-XXXXAPH, WS-XXXXB, WSD-1200GPH, or WSD-1500GPH). It does not work for Auber SYL series controllers either."
    Appears this is true for the PID Smoker Controller, Dual Probes 1800 watts product code/model# WSD-1500GPH.
    After more research on the Auber site I found that product code/model number: WS-Sensor11 is the right product for the PID I bought WSD-1200GPH and the WSD-1500GPH.
    Just my observations--correct me if I am wrong.  Dale
 
Good observation, Dale!  It's a website error that Steve has to fix.  The probes he sells now are the ones for the GPH (large plugs), not the old style.  Looks like I need to poke him again about getting this done! ;)
 
Thanks Tony--I have been reading a lot on the different forums.  Noticed this issue was found earlier.  Hope to be smoking by next weekend.  :D
 
I installed the sensor and bypassed the controller.  Thank you for all the great advice in this forum. Sorry no pictures--no way I could out do, or add to what you fine gentlemen have already provided.  Will auto tune tomorrow morning--hoping to do my first smoke tomorrow afternoon-venison steaks.  Plan is to smoke them at low temperature for purposes of flavor--pull them out and finish on grill.  Wish me luck! 
 
Congrats, Dale!  Sounds like you're set up, and have a plan!  Be sure to post something about your cook (for drool purposes, of course!). ;)
 
Thanks to all for your help I have now completed my second smoke.  This one lasted six hours and my set up required three steps on the Auber.  Here is the SMOKE:
http://smokinitforums.com/index.php?topic=3285.0
The system worked great.  Over shot the 225F temp initially--ramped up to 232F, but cooled back to 225 pretty quick.  Once back down to 225 it held steady for over four hours.  Very impressed with this system, and thank again for all your guidance and instruction in this forum.  Much thanks to Tony, and all that have posted in this Subject forum--could not have done it with out it. 
 
I got my permanent probe installed today.  Thanks to everyone's great advise it was pretty easy.  I used some cobalt (material not brand) drill bits that worked fine.  I dipped them in cooking oil about every 10-15 seconds or when I saw any smoke.  I started with a pilot hole and then went with the 5/16" hole.  I started slow but went to high gear and I was through in no time.

I put my probe down about 1-1/2" from the inside top.  As mentioned earlier there was a spot weld on the back right at the 1" mark.  I used the 1" nylon spacer from Lowes and it worked like a champ.

I drilled another 7/16" hole on the bottom for the cord to go through.  Once the grommet was in the connector would not fit. I had to put the connector thought the hole and then push the grommet over the connector and then install the grommet. If I had to do it over I would drill a 1/2" hole and I would of been ok.  I have the WSD-1500GPH and the WS-sensor11.

I will do an auto tune tomorrow. Thanks again!
 
DivotMaker said:
However, it's been pointed out that the smarter move is to route the wire along one of the power wires, and out through the same hole as the power cord! (Duh!).  Still can't believe I didn't think of this!  If I install another one, that's what I'll do.
Click to expand...

I gave this some thought before installing the permanent PID probe and I really like having the wire run out the back instead of out the bottom.  I figured since the meat probe would have to run down the top vent anyway, running the smoker probe straight out the back of the unit keeps the two leads at equal lengths.  I also have the smoker sitting next to a prep table that I like to put the Auber PID on while smoking.  Running the wire out the back of the cabinet allows me to have more lead length.  I did add a wire anchor just in case I ever accidently snag the wire on anything. 

Thank you for the write up, it was very helpful for mounting the probe!
 

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Good idea on the anchor, DL!  Nice to have you with us.  Be sure and head over to the Introductions section and tell us a little about yourself, and BBQ experience.  Also, a first name and town, in your Forum Profile signature line, is nice to see.  We're kind of one big family here, so we like to know our new family members!
 
Quick question, I have the SI#1 would you suggest mounting the sensor 1 inch from the inside top of the smoker or just below the top rack? I should get my pid next week. And will be doing the modifications then, both the bypass and adding the permanent sensor. I spoke with Auber this morning and mine should ship today. Also was able to change my order am getting the permanent sensor for $2.00 additional charge. I may call Steve this morning and get his thoughts on the mounting area in the #1.
 
elkins20 said:
Quick question, I have the SI#1 would you suggest mounting the sensor 1 inch from the inside top of the smoker or just below the top rack? I should get my pid next week. And will be doing the modifications then, both the bypass and adding the permanent sensor.
Click to expand...
I'll be interested to follow the answers on this.  With a #1, the space is pretty tight and I'm curious if the pat answer to this question will apply. 
 
Hey Dave, Read some advice on the Smokin-It site under Instructions. Looks like it was in a #1 and was mounted 3/8 inch under the top rack. I am leaning towards going with an inch from the inside top of the smoker. As I do ribs on the top rack. But, probably for brisket and butts will do the middle rack. Eventually will also get a third rack but not sure what I would smoke there as it will be very close to the smoke box.
 
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