Gap at the back of the lid

A gap at the back between dome and base

The hinge springs are under tension, and the bands hold the hinge on. The 2020 and 2021 Joe Jr. manuals: do not take the hinge off without the proper hardware; to change the dome or base, call Kamado Joe, who will send hardware that holds the hinge safely closed. The 2024 manual says only to check the bands and hinge. Any change of dome, base, bands or hinge needs two people, gloves and safety glasses.

• Loose band screws at the hinge let the dome sit crooked: check and tighten them.
• A new gasket can leave a small gap that settles with use (Kamado Joe video).
• The springs: the Joe Jr.'s hinge has no tension adjustment, so check both springs are hooked on and neither is stretched (our reading).