Your Traeger grill is made up of multiple internal components.
All of these work in harmony in normal operation to give you the best grilling experience.
But like most things in life, something might fail.
And cause a disruption that can stop the functioning.
One of these disruptions is an auger jam.
But don’t worry!
A jammed auger isn’t that serious.
With a little knowledge, you can get back to the cooking process.
Table of contents
What Is the Auger & Its Function on a Traeger Pellet Grill
Before we start troubleshooting, what is an auger?
A piece of metal is fixed in an auger tube and is rotated via the auger motor.
It is situated under the pellet hopper.
The rotation feeds your wood pellets below and through the auger shaft.
Into the fire pot to be ignited.
The rotation speed of the auger will depend on the set cook temperature.
This is done via the temperature dial on the control panel.
How to Clear the Auger on Your Traeger Pellet Grill
Below are fault indicators and steps on how to clear your Traeger auger.
In the end, I have also highlighted some safety precautions.
Do I Need Anything?
Before clearing or fixing you will need the following;
– Enough space to work in.
– A safe and clean area to put the removed parts.
– A soft brush.
– Phillips & flathead screwdriver.
– 7/64 Allen key
– Pipe wrench.
– Pliers.
– Safety glasses.
– Wet-dry vacuum (shop vac works well)
Is There an Error Code?
A temp error code can indicate a blocked auger.
This is will happen when the ambient temperature falls below 125°F.
A Ler code (Low Error Temp) will appear on the LCD screen on the control panel.
Step 1 – Remove the Control Panel & Hopper
– Remove all power to your grill and wait until cools.
– Empty the hopper.
– Vacuum any dust or hard-to-reach wood pellets at the bottom.
– Move your Traeger grill to the designated workspace.
– Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the 4 screws holding the control panel.
– After the panel is released, turn it vertically to fit back into its housing space.
– Remove the 2 screws on the back and front of your hopper and completely remove them.
Note: When removing the hopper’s grill exterior, be sure to grip the bottom.
This will stop it from slipping or falling.
– The auger is now exposed.
Step 2 – Remove the Auger Shaft From the Auger Motor
– Take your Allen key and pliers.
– Insert the Allen key into the shear pin nut that is holding the motor and shaft together.
– Grip the opposite end with the pliers.
– Screw the pin out.
– Remove the motor from the shaft being careful of the connecting orange wires.
Step 3 – Removing the Auger
– Remove the bushing screw on the circular auger hatch.
This is located near where you removed the sheer auger pin.
– Try to gently pull off the bushing face.
Note: If unable to pull off then use your pipe wrench.
– Completely remove the auger from the auger tunnel.
Step 4 – Cleaning the Auger Shaft
– Put your safety glasses on and gently blow into the tunnel.
– Vacuum excess dust and unburned pellets from the shaft.
– Use your brush to remove any dust on the top of the auger and fire pot.
– Inspect for any dirt or grease build-up.
– Clean accordingly.
Step 5 – Put Your Traeger Back Together
– Check you have all the components.
– Install each part back exactly how you found it.
– Fill your hopper.
– Initiate start-up procedure.
– Troubleshoot for any remaining issues.
Why Do I Have to Clear the Auger?
From the explanation above, it is easy to see why you need to do this.
If the fuel source is not reaching the ignition chamber you will have no heat.
Or temperature swings that will affect your entire cook.
No heat = no smoky chicken wings or other delicious meals!
An obstruction can also permanently damage the motor.
A damaged motor requires a specialist technician from Traeger Grills.
Read further for warranty notes and the customer support contact.
How Long Will It Take?
This always depends on if other grill components are affected.
Or how bad the jam is.
You can expect anywhere between 30-60 minutes.
How Can I Prevent Future Auger Blockage?
Below are some quick key things to note that will help you avoid an auger blockage.
– Buy good quality and natural hardwood pellets.
– Store your pellets in an airtight condition.
– Check for swollen pellets due to moisture before cooking.
– Do not leave pellets in the hopper if you are not using the Traeger.
– Follow the correct maintenance procedures.
Safety Notes Before Clearing the Auger
Notes of safety before attempting to troubleshoot and fix the auger cycle blockage.
– Ensure the power cord is completely removed from the power source outlet.
– Wait until it has cooled completed before attempting to fix it.
– Give yourself appropriate space.
– Make sure you have the above tools ready.
– Always refer to your instruction manual and manufacturer instructions.
– Have a clean and safe designated area for removed parts.
– Be aware of any pinch points and the motor’s orange wires that can be damaged.
– A clicking sound can indicate a faulty auger motor or induction fan.
– If you are unsure then contact the Traeger customer service team via https://support.traeger.com
Traeger Warranty Policy Notes
– Check your warranty policy and warranty claims.
– There is a three-year warranty period for all Traeger models.
– Contact Traeger’s customer service department if you are unsure.
– Be aware of how consequential damages may affect your warranty coverage.
Smoke On!
Charlie
Hi, I’m Charlie, I have been meat-smoking and grilling for the past 15 years. I have an array of different smokers, thermometers, and have a love for finding the right wood and charcoal combo My favourite recipes are my EXTRA CRISPY smoked pork belly, juicy pulled pork, smoked brisket, duck poppers, and ANY SEAFOOD I grill).
I loves sharing his tips with beginners, helping them navigate the world of smoking. I find it’s not just about cooking; it’s a quest for that perfect smoky flavor.
You will usually find me playing with the kids, perfecting my brisket bark, or sipping beers with boys around the fire. Can’t wait to share all my delicious smoking and grilling recipes with you!
You can read more about me on our About Us page.
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