This article details a compatibility test between Lone Star Grill pellets chips and a Traeger Ironwood XL pellet grill. The experiment aimed to determine the feasibility of using Lone Star's finely-ground hickory chips, designed for their auger-fed grill, as a supplement or replacement for standard Traeger pellets. Two mixing ratios were tested: a 1:1 blend of pellets and chips, and a more conservative 2:1 blend. The primary focus was on assessing the impact of the chips on the Traeger's auger function, temperature control, and overall performance.The results of this experiment provide valuable insights into the challenges of using wood chips designed for one grill model in another. While initial tests showed some promise, the long-term effects on the Traeger Ironwood XL's auger mechanism were concerning. This article will analyze the findings and ultimately recommend the safest and most reliable fueling method for your Traeger. Specifically, it explores the packaging of the Lone Star chips, the practicalities of mixing them with pellets, and the potential risks associated with using this combination.
Pros And Cons
- Come in a large quantity for the price.
- Packaging is inadequate (came in a box, got wet).
- Not compatible with Traeger grills; caused auger issues and temperature problems.
Read more: 10 Best Electric Smoker Wood Chips for Delicious BBQ
Unboxing and Initial Impressions
Upon receiving the Lone Star Grill pellet chips, I was immediately struck by their simple packaging – a plain cardboard box. While functional, it lacks the protection a more robust container would offer, especially considering the price point and potential for damage during shipping. A simple plastic bag would offer improved protection from the elements during transport and storage.
The chips themselves are small, finely-ground hickory pieces, seemingly sized for use in Lone Star's auger-fed grill. Their small size is key to their intended use, but this raised questions about compatibility with my Traeger Ironwood XL.
The Experiment: 1:1 and 2:1 Pellet-to-Chip Ratios
My experiment involved two pellet-to-chip ratios: a 1:1 mix (equal parts pellets and chips) and a 2:1 mix (twice as many pellets as chips). The 1:1 mix was a significant amount, filling a sizeable portion of the hopper. I started with the 1:1 ratio, aiming for a 225°F super smoke setting to assess the Traeger's ability to handle this blend.
The 2:1 mix was a more conservative approach, intending to minimize the potential for auger jams and other issues. Both ratios allowed me to evaluate the effect of different wood chip concentrations on smoke output, flavor, and auger functionality.
Initial Results and Auger Behavior
Initially, the Traeger handled the 1:1 mix surprisingly well. The auger turned smoothly, and the wood chips seemed to feed without significant clogging. However, the temperature dropped to 146°F and the auger produced a concerning metallic grinding sound, indicating potential stress or strain.
While the auger eventually resumed operation, it was clear that this blend was pushing the system's limits. The persistent grinding sound suggested that the auger was struggling to process the harder, less easily broken wood chips compared to the typical pellets.
Conclusion and Recommendations
The experiment definitively showed that using Lone Star Grill chips in a Traeger Ironwood XL is not recommended. The smaller chips, while ideal for the Lone Star grill's design, proved problematic for the Traeger's auger, leading to unusual noises and potential damage.
While the auger initially functioned, the sustained strain and unusual sounds indicated a significant risk of auger damage. The experiment also showed that the grill struggled to maintain temperature with the chip mixtures, potentially affecting cooking results. Ultimately, sticking to standard pellets is the safer and more reliable approach for a Traeger.