Replace bands, hinge or dome and align the dome
Before you start: tension, kit, two people
The hinge and the bands are under high spring tension. The manual: never loosen the bands or take the hinge apart without the hinge disengagement kit fitted, because the hinge cannot be removed safely without it; any change of dome, base or bands needs two people, gloves and safety glasses. Refit the base band first, front pin first, with a helper holding the hinge (Kamado Joe Europe).
The order is Kamado Joe Europe's; the tools come from owner videos. Kamado Joe Europe adds: "if needed, please contact your local dealer for technical service".
Take the hinge and bands off
Kamado Joe Europe's order.
- Take the side shelves off (owner video).
- Lock the hinge spring with the tube, washer and nut.
- Have your helper hold the hinge.
- Undo the bolts joining the band ends.
- Lift the hinge and bands off together, and separate them on the ground.
Refit and align the dome
Kamado Joe Europe: "always start in the front!"
- Fit the base band first: its fixation pin into the hole at the front of the base, then the back pin into its gap.
- Tighten the base band.
- Fit the dome and its band the same way, front pin first.
- Tighten it, with the helper still holding the hinge.
- Unlock the spring: nut, washer and tube off.
- Check the dome's balance and the seal, and re-tighten the bands after a few cooks.