Love your PK Grill but looking to add a thermometer for better cooking? You are in the right place!
PK Grills is one of the most popular charcoal grills out there.
These cast aluminum grills are highly portable and easy to use. However, not all PK Grill comes with a built-in thermometer.
So, if your PK Grill doesn’t have one or your thermometer is out of order, this guide will show you how to add a thermometer to PK Grill for various models. Let’s dive right in!
What PK Grill Models Come with a Built-in Thermometer?
The only PK Grill model that comes ready with a built-in thermometer is the company’s flagship “the PK 360” model.
However, other models like the Original PK Grill, the PK GO, the PK TX, and others don’t have one.
Luckily, PK Grills also make various grill accessories, including a built-in grill thermometer that you can attach to any of these models.
How to Install a Thermometer to a PK 360 Grill
First, you should keep in mind that the PK 360 model comes with a built-in thermometer, so you won’t have to install it to the grill if you need one.
However, if yours is not working and is out of warranty, you can follow this guide to install a new one.
In the case of the PK 360 Grill, you won’t need any extra tools to get the job done.
Step 1: Locate a Spot
In the PK 360, the thermometer is installed on the front of the lid, usually to the left of the holding handles.
If you’re installing one for the first time, take it out of the box and locate the pre-drilled hole found at that spot.
Step 2: Remove the Existing Thermometer if You Have Any
If you already have an old thermometer attached, you’ll have to remove it first.
To do that, all you have to do is to unscrew the wing nut that is found on the same spot but on the interior of the lid, then pull it out gently.
Step 3: Attach to the Lid
Now that the hole is exposed, attach your thermometer into the hole through the long metal screw so that it sticks out from the other end.
Fasten the wing nut that comes with the thermometer but don’t go all the way and make sure that the thermometer still has wiggle room.
Step 4: Align and Stabilize
Adjust the thermometer so that the (°F) mark is exactly at the bottom and make sure that the thermometer is aligned correctly, then stabilize it by fastening the wing nut all the way.
How to Install a Thermometer to a PK GO Grill
In the case of other models, whether it’s the PK GO, the PK TX, or the Original, you should follow this guide.
Keep in mind, before you go drilling into your PK Grill, understand you can always use a probe thermometer like this one, and not have any holes in your expensive grills.
What you’re Going to Need for the Installation
Since there’s not drilled holes in other PK Grill models, you’ll have to drill one yourself. For this project, you’ll need the following items:
- PK Grill Thermometer Accessory
- Electric drill with a 1/4 inch drill bit (the accessory above won’t arrive with the drill bit needed for the job, so you have to get one separately)
- Any black marker to mark the spot where you’re going to drill.
Step 1: Drill a Suitable Hole in the Lid
The first thing you need to do is to take out the thermometer accessory and make sure that it works properly.
You may test it out by exposing it to heat and see if the meter reads out properly, but keep in mind that this has a +/- 1% margin of error.
Once you’re sure it’s functioning as it should, take out the silver flashing (housing) that comes with the kit and install it where you want to place the thermometer.
Ideally, you should install it on either side where it should be easy to read.
Mark the spot in the middle of the flashing with the marker, and use the electric drill with the drill bit to make the hole needed for the probe.
While drilling, keep your hands steady to avoid widening the drilled hole.
Step 2: Insert in the Required Spot
After drilling the hole, insert the thermometer probe into the silver flashing so that the concave side is facing you.
Next, insert the probe through the drilled hole and use the wing nut that comes with the kit to fasten the wing nut but not all the way.
Step 3: Align and Adjust
Adjust the thermometer so that the (°F) mark is exactly at the bottom and make sure that it is aligned correctly, then stabilize it by fastening the wing nut all the way.
When you’re done, clean the metal shavings in the grill before using it.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! A complete guide that shows you everything you need to know in order to add a thermometer to your PK Grill.
As you can see, the process is fairly easy as long as you have the proper tools needed for the job.