- Aug 6, 2023
- 2
- 7
A long time lurker so I thought I’d share some modifications and upgrades I have completed on my cabinet. I know there is a wide consensus on the short comings of the installed temperature controller though I have been satisfied with mine, that is until it failed! I removed the failed controller and stripped it down to assess my next steps.
I have the MES30-Ver1.0 (square corner controller) for well over 10 years and use it frequently. Rather than buying a new smoker or an Auber temperature controller I elected to us my DigiQ DX2 that I own to replace the failed controller. The DigiQ is typically used to control a fan in my wood/charcoal smokers.
I did a total rewire using the 12VDC output from the DigiQ to drive a SSR (solid state relay) controlling the MES heater. Very happy with the outcome and have been utilizing it about 9 months. Just an idea for those that own a DigiQ and may want to dual purpose it. Minor parts cost and all items can be sourced from e-bay.
Additional mods:
-Removed the chip loader and tray many years ago and utilize the A-maz-N smoke tube.
-Reversed the heater element and added a stainless steel diffuser, the diffuser is about 25% open. Not certain it improves heat distribution but completed anyway.
-Added exterior handles for carrying ease. One of my favorite mods! Makes it much easier to lug around.
I have attached a few photos to highlight my changes.
I have the MES30-Ver1.0 (square corner controller) for well over 10 years and use it frequently. Rather than buying a new smoker or an Auber temperature controller I elected to us my DigiQ DX2 that I own to replace the failed controller. The DigiQ is typically used to control a fan in my wood/charcoal smokers.
I did a total rewire using the 12VDC output from the DigiQ to drive a SSR (solid state relay) controlling the MES heater. Very happy with the outcome and have been utilizing it about 9 months. Just an idea for those that own a DigiQ and may want to dual purpose it. Minor parts cost and all items can be sourced from e-bay.
Additional mods:
-Removed the chip loader and tray many years ago and utilize the A-maz-N smoke tube.
-Reversed the heater element and added a stainless steel diffuser, the diffuser is about 25% open. Not certain it improves heat distribution but completed anyway.
-Added exterior handles for carrying ease. One of my favorite mods! Makes it much easier to lug around.
I have attached a few photos to highlight my changes.