We explain 3 different problems and the solutions below:
- A gap between the dome (lid) and base (bottom), across the entire width of the kamado.
- A local gap between the dome (lid) and base (bottom).
- An underbite/overbite between the dome (lid) and base (bottom).
Tip: do the adjustment of the dome/lid with 2 people, with 1 person holding the kamado, to prevent the kamado from tipping over.
Problem with gap across entire width of kamado:
A gap between the dome (lid) and base (bottom), across the entire width of the kamado. Overall, the dome and base do not connect well. The kamado is leaking smoke. The temperature is difficult to control.
Solution:
1: Open the lid and, on the hinge, loosen the locknuts of the socket head screws on the inside of the hinge by 2 turns.
2: Now gently push on the dome to push it down.
3: Now retighten the locknuts and close the lid to see if the gap is resolved.
Problem with local gap:
Locally, the dome/lid does not connect well to the base (bottom). A local gap between the dome and base. The kamado is leaking smoke. The temperature is difficult to control
Solution:
1: Loosen the dome adjustment bolts. Do this carefully and do not twist off the nut completely.
2: If the band of the dome is now looser, press the dome down slightly so that the band sits slightly higher around the dome.
3: If the dome now connects properly, retighten the adjustment bolts. Do not overtighten the bolts. As soon as you feel resistance, this is enough. This is because the ceramic needs room to expand.
Problem with overbite/underbite:
The dome (lid) and base (bottom) do not fit together properly, causing an overbite or underbite somewhere. An overbite/underbite need not affect the operation of the kamado. Only when smoke leaks during use and the temperature is difficult to control is this a problem.
Solution:
1: Keep the dome (lid) closed.
2: On the hinge, loosen the locknuts of the socket head screws on the inside of the hinge by 2 turns.
3: You can now move the dome forwards or backwards, allowing you to align it properly with the base.
4: Once you have adjusted the dome properly, retighten the lock nuts on the inside of the hinge.