loco turkey fryer wont stay lit

Troubleshooting Why Your Loco Turkey Fryer Won’t Stay Lit

Frying a turkey is a delicious way to prepare the centerpiece of your holiday meal. But if you’re using a Loco turkey fryer and are having issues keeping the burner lit, your plans for crispy fried bird can quickly go up in smoke.

A temperamental propane burner that won’t stay ignited can be incredibly frustrating But in most cases, there are some simple troubleshooting steps you can take to get your Loco fryer working properly again.

In this article we’ll explore the common reasons why your Loco turkey fryer burner won’t stay lit and provide tips to help get it firing on all cylinders. With a few minor adjustments and safety checks you’ll be back on track for fried turkey perfection.

Checking Propane Tank Connection

One of the first things to check if your Loco turkey fryer burner won’t stay lit is the connection between the propane tank and the regulator.

Make sure the propane tank is full and properly threaded into the regulator inlet. The connection should feel snug and secure. If not, unscrew and reattach to achieve a tight seal. Be careful not to overtighten. You may need to replace a damaged propane tank.

Also inspect the regulator outlet that attaches to the burner tube. This is a common spot for gas leaks which will prevent the burner from lighting. Listen for hissing which indicates a leak. Tighten the connection or replace damaged regulator parts like o-rings or gaskets as needed. A bubble test with soapy water can also check for leaks.

Checking for Obstructions

Another issue that can prevent a good flame is obstructions in the burner tube or gas flow pathways.

Remove the burner tube and inspect for any insects, nests, or food debris that could be blocking the burner. Use a wire brush and pipe cleaner to gently clean out any obstructed areas.

Also check that the venturi (narrow part of the burner tube that increases gas flow velocity) is properly aligned with the gas outlet on the regulator. Misalignment can obstruct gas flow.

Make sure the burner tube is dry before replacing. Even small amounts of water or moisture can block the propane from flowing and lighting properly.

Adjusting Air Shutters

There are small adjustable metal plates called air shutters on propane burners that regulate the amount of air that mixes with the gas. Closing the air shutters causes a narrower, harsher flame while opening them creates a wider, softer flame.

If your burner won’t stay lit, adjusting the air shutters can help improve gas combustion. Use a screwdriver to open or close the air shutters slightly until you achieve a consistently lit flame. Be cautious not to open too wide as this can make the flame float up and away from the burner.

Checking Burner Holes

Your Loco turkey fryer uses a cast iron burner ring with small holes all around it to distribute the gas flame. Over time, grease, debris, and corrosion can build up and clog these burner holes.

Carefully inspect the burner ring holes for any blockages. Use a toothpick, skewer or pipe cleaner to gently clear any closed holes. You want an even circle of small flames all around the burner during use. Uneven flame distribution can indicate blocked holes.

Testing Igniter and Regulator

The igniter button creates a spark to light the propane gas when you begin cooking. If no spark is being created, either the battery needs replacing or the electrode is damaged or misaligned from the burner.

Test a new AAA battery in the igniter. Also check for broken wires or a faulty push button igniter.

Likewise, the propane regulator controls the gas flow from the tank to the burner. Excessive dirt, damage or defects within the regulator can prevent the correct gas pressure to light and sustain the burner flame.

You may need to replace a faulty regulator. Only use the exact replacement part recommended by the fryer manufacturer for safety.

Using Wind Screens

Outdoor propane turkey fryers are very susceptible to wind interference. Even a slight breeze can continuously blow out the burner flame.

Set up rigid wind screens on the sides and back of the Loco turkey fryer to block wind. Avoid placing near trees or structures that create wind channels. You can also construct a three-sided shelter around the fryer using plywood or cardboard.

Keep the fryer burner fully shielded from wind. If it is at all breezy out, reschedule frying the turkey for a calmer day to prevent safety hazards.

Preventing Future Lighting Problems

To avoid ongoing issues with your Loco turkey fryer not staying lit, be sure to:

• Always keep the fryer protected from rain, snow and moisture when not in use. Never submerge the burner in water.

• Completely clean the fryer after each use, including scrubbing the burner tube and orifice.

• Store propane tank and hose indoors when not in use. UV rays can damage rubber components over time.

• Conduct periodic leak tests and visually inspect all gas connections.

• Replace damaged regulators, hoses and other components rather than repairing.

With a few key troubleshooting steps, you can get your temperamental Loco turkey fryer burner lighting properly again. Just be sure to always place safety first when dealing with propane and deep frying. If issues persist after troubleshooting, contact the manufacturer for servicing recommendations. Stay safe and enjoy perfectly fried turkey this holiday season!