Flying my flag at half mast today....

[jord hawkins]

Went out to start up my MES yesterday to do some ribs....plugged it in and pushed the power button.........nothing. Tried a different outlet......nothing. Admittedly I haven't used it a lot lately but I'm certainly bummed that it's gone the way of the dodo. My guess is that it's just the electric controls that have died......does anyone know of any easy ways to try and fix this that doesn't involve a plasma torch and an engineering degree.

If not does anyone have a recommendation for a replacement? I've been quite happy with this model up to the point of it epically failing but am willing to look at other models too. I'm afraid I'm too lazy for a non-electric smoker.

Thanks.

 

[beer-b-q]

From reading posts here I believe there is a problem with the wiring on the MES which leads to failure. From reading the posts of some members I also believe it is an easy fix...

Someone who has experienced this problem will be along and advise you of the solution, just be patient...

 

[oneshot]

Jord, if you can't fix it may I suggest looking into and getting a Traeger.
You can do anything you want on these, really!!!! I've had mine for 2 1/2 years now and smoked a lot of stuff. They are the easiest to use and produce fantastic smokes. Here is the link and when ya get there check out the video with Jay Leno and Terry Bradshaw, funny and informative.

Good luck buddy and if you have any questions about them send me a pm and I'll help you out .....

http://www.traegergrills.com/?gclid=...FRcXIwodykaQ-A

 

[bud lite]

Take a look here:
http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/for...ad.php?t=73815

 

[meat hunter]

Sorry to hear about your loss. Not real familiar with electric models, but if you want something that does not take as much effort like a wood smoker, maybe look into a propane model? Just a thought.
By the way, a flag flown at half mast is one on a ship, when on land, its flown at half staff. Just a little military trivia for ya

.

Look on the bright side. At least it did not go out on you half way thru your smoke?

 

[chainsaw]

I feel your pain. I too had electrical problems with my MES, but fortunately it was still under warranty. They suggested to keep the electronic box inside when not in use.
If you can't fix it I would recommend the Cookshack. More money, but Cadillacs always are more.
I have read comments on here regarding a more robust replacement electronic control than the original.
I looked at the Brinkman too (bullet cooker) but it is pretty light weight, and has no insulation in it. It comes in sections, but is very inexpensive. The electrics are easier to keep a steady heat in (when they work properly)

 

[alx]

DITTO^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

 

[ronp]

Call Masterbuilt they will help. I had a bit of a scare last week, just unpluged the control box for 30 minutes and it started right up.

Worse case you may need a new box, and they are only 30 dollars. Or maybe it is the wiring.

Good luck.

 

[jord hawkins]

......and how do you know that I don't live on a house boat?!?

When I wrote it I knew it didn't sound right but I was too depressed to worry about it.

Thanks for the info guys. Seeing as it's over two years old I figure I might as well rip it open and see if I can fix it myself as I'm sure it won't be covered by the warranty.

 

[alx]

ROFLMAO...Wish you good luck....