I am wanting to get a flame boss, but was wondering how long it takes to learn a different cooker. I would like to use it on a weber kettle and a pbc. What do you think, doable, or do I have to buy 2?
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My thoughts are that you learn the general behavior of your cooker over about 10 cooks, but learning how to make top notch BBQ on it might take longer. Say 3-5 cooks of each food category (ribs, brisket, pulled pork, etc) to dial in the best way for that particular BBQ. And I don't think you ever stop learning. Just my opinion. -
Second time I read your post I realized that you were speaking specifically about the flame boss, but I don't think I would change my answer much.Comment
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I am wondering about the question like JCGrill. Are you asking about learning about the Flame Boss or a new BBQ? You mentioned you might buy two, so I am guessing you are familiar with your Weber and have bought a new unit. If it is the Flame Boss, I do not have one. However, when I bought my Fireboard thermo I learned certain things about the internal temps of my meats and the difference between it's temp and the units' mounted thermometers. I have found it invaluable for brisket, pork butt and ribeye roast. I have found that I don't use it for tri-tips or large cuts of steak that I smoke first. If you are referring to a new smoker, let us know what that the new one is - thinking it may be the PBC. If that is the case you can look at this thread: https://pitmaster.amazingribs.com/fo...er-on-your-pbcComment
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I'm beginning to think that the question is how long it takes for the Flame Boss to 'learn' a new cooker. I believe the answer is no time, it's just a PID control. Temperature input, and fan speed output. It will speed up and slow down to get the desired results. Essentially it never learns, it uses trial and error each time.Comment
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Yes, I mean the controller itself. I was under the impression that they "learn" a cooker. For example if it first overshoot on a small cooker by 40 degrees, it will back the fan down sooner to keep from overshooting.
My only experience with a PID controller was on a large oven, and it took over 6 hours to stop overshooting the set temp. This is why I was curious about switching different size cookers.Comment
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Ah, now the question is clear. Just like your oven, any PID controller that "learns" takes time. To a certain extent, it "rewrites the algorithm" based on actual performance. I don't have a FB, but I have used learning PID controllers and my experience is in line with yours that it takes about 4-6 hours to get maximum stability.
That said, with a grill, there are so many variables that the controller has to "keep learning". If you add a water pan to your kettle cook this time or use different wood chunks or the ambient temperature/wind direction/cloud cover/etc. changes, the controller has to adjust. It won't take as long on the second cook as it did on the first, but it will make adjustments.
So, if you switch from kettle to PBC to kettle, it may take more time than you want to adjust. Again, this is generally speaking…. I don't own a FB, so YMMV.Comment
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I really don't think there is a need to use a controller with a PBC, not to mention they are a bit of a pain to retro fit the the PBC.
Like others have said, it is important to learn your cooker before you use a controller. The controller will make things easier but it is important to learn the basics. Then when the controller acts up, it will be much easier to trouble shoot any issues.Comment
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What method do you use to maintain temp in the winter? I have found that I am having to crack the lid constantly, and the bottom vent really only makes things worse when not adjusted as directed.Originally posted by Spinaker View Post
Edit; I guess I really only read your first sentence. I probably only have 40 or 50 cooks on the pbc, but I have all but given up on anything other than fair weather cooks on it.Last edited by snowandsmoke; August 26, 2017, 03:12 PM.Comment
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Not to speak to the PBC part but changing cookers with a FlameBoss is no issue. Just set it what you want it to do and it does it. I move it to different cookers constantly.Comment
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That is exactly what I was looking for, someone who has swapped from smoker to smoker to smoker. ThanksOriginally posted by Jon Solberg View Post
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I just ordered a partyq and if that goes well, I will likely order a flame boss 300 for the house. We will see....Comment
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I cook through out the Minnesota winter with my PBC. I have done overnight cooks when it was -15 -20 F. And she purred right along. I even cook in snow and rain as well. If you are running too cool, adjust the bottom damper. You will get all of the oxygen you need there. Cracking the lid is a great way to boost temps, but it is meant to be a short term solution. IF you are consistently having trouble maintaining higher temps, the bottom needs to be adjusted. Another option is to buy a welding blanket and wrap that around the PBC for insulation. That makes a difference. I just never bother with it anymore. I bought one and it worked great, but now I just open the bottom damper a bit more during the winter months.Originally posted by snowandsmoke View Post
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Ran the pbc with the partyq for about 4 hours this evening, and I am very impressed. I think I'm going to build a new charcoal basket for it. There is room for a lot of fuel down there if you can control the burn.Last edited by snowandsmoke; September 2, 2017, 07:56 PM.Comment
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I'm trying to understand the concept that the Flame Boss (or PartyQ or other PID) can "learn" the cooker. None of these are smart devices. The brains of the Flame Boss are basically the same brains in your kitchen oven.Comment
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