Spare parts

[4wd-n-archery]

Gonna pull the trigger on a #3.
Looks like the Smokin It warranty is rock solid.  Still if there is a failure it is going to be when you have seasoned ribs ready to go in, and company waiting.
I was thinking that I might buy some spare parts just in case.  And if there is a failure, Iwould still take advantage of the warranty, and still have spare parts.
Overkill?  Am I worried about nothing? Should I risk it?  I just like being prepared.  This type of breakdown is the only downside I can see to electric smoking.

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[old sarge]

I would not worry. Save the money for food.

[DivotMaker]

Unlike some of the plastic "big box" smokers, that are so prone to failure of elements and controllers, these are not.  Save your money, have fun, and don't worry.

[swthorpe]

I agree...I doubt anything will break any time soon.  I am coming up to my 1 year anniversary with a #2, and it is smoking better than ever...no issues.   In terms of an add on, though, I would recommend the Maverick or some other therm for measuring the smoker temp and IT of the meat that you plan to smoke.  They have one on the SI web site, or you can find other Mavs/etc on amazon.

[es1025]

I would recommend heavy duty aluminum foil, it does wonders when you line the bottom of the smoker and the wood box.  don't forget to open the drip hole.

If you have some extra cash (around $100) a thermopen is an awesome instant read thermometer.  I have one used it two weeks ago on a brisket.  The maverick is a must!

[DivotMaker]

Perfect use for "spare parts" money, Ed!!

[Three Sons BBQ]

Be very concerned!!!

So much so that I would order the new unit and spend the rest of the money on beer to pass the time until it shows up!!

[puddle jumper]

I had the same thoughts when I got mine,,
I have had zero problems out of mine so far...
I would spend the money on a seafood rack, cold smoke plate and wood if you want to get extra stuff and maybe and jerky dryer..
PJ

[DivotMaker]

Now we're doing some serious brainstorming!  Way to go, PJ!

[4wd-n-archery]

Thanks everyone. Guess that's why I talked myself into spending over $500. The warranty on the box store brands is 90 days and limited at best. Smoking it's Warranty should speak for its quality.
I'm definetly getting a maverick and gonna weld up my own custom cart in the spring.  Guess I can buy ribs with the spare parts money.

[DivotMaker]

Sounds like you just figured it out, 4wheel!

[benjammn]

AMEN! Don't waste money on things that aren't broke. I have had mine just over a year now and everything is working as good if not better than it was new. I agree on getting the extra gear: cold smoke plate, racks, wood, etc. Maveric is a major must have, just ordered a newer version of my ET73 and got the ET733. Can't wait, kinda like Christmas all over. Plus some Bear Claws and the digital scale (was going to order a week or so ago but figured I would get more for free shipping from Amazon).

Oh and yes on getting the great wood varieties from Fruitawood!

Foil is your friend, too. Must do that. Also doesn't hurt to buy a few stacks of the disposable aluminum mini-loaf pans for liquids, always a good choice.

[4wd-n-archery]

Looks like I'm gonna have to put together a shopping list.

[swthorpe]

Ben...I second the choice of a digital scale!   I just got one and realized that I had been under weighting the wood for the box...this weekend I did a pork loin with a correct amount of wood (4oz) and finally got the smoke taste that I was looking for!  Can't wait for the 3 racks of ribs this weekend with correct weight of wood....

[old sarge]

A good scale has saved my bacon many a time.