Traeger Ain't What It Used To Be

[Daba's BBQ]

I bought my Traeger several years ago. After about 1 year, I started having mechanical issues. First, it was the temp probe, then the firepot, then the auger, and finally, the entire board died. I cannot tell you how many of my cooks were ruined because the rig stopped working midway. I cannot tell how many times I called customer support and connected via video chat. I made so many videos, Steven Spielberg wanted to hire me!

As a member of the Traeger forums, I have seen a dramatic increase in mechanical issues with Traeger rigs, especially newer ones, posted. Based upon all of the complaints and issues, it seems that Traeger's quality is not what it used to be and is not on par with other brands on the market today.

After two years, I had enough of ruined cooks, replacing parts, and phone calls to Traeger. I sold the rig and bought a Pit Boss Pro Series. It was the best decision I ever made. The Pit Boss is a heavier gauge steel, with superior craftsmanship, the temp is rock steady throughout my cooks, and produces great food. I know what I am saying might be considered heresy on a Traeger forum, but given the increasing number of posts related to mechanical problems, I had to share my experience with the group.

 

[Slimpicker]

My 575: 4 years now, not 1 bad cook or issue. I replaced fire pot as just a maintenance thing, they were at one time real cheap on Traeger web site... Never emptied my hopper, never had a auger clog, I've gone as far as 3/4" of ash in the bottom before vacuuming.

 

[JeffOsorio]

Sorry to hear about your issues with Traeger glad the Pit Boss is working out better for you!

 

[AlanaGalvan]

I totally understand your frustration. It’s disappointing when a product doesn’t live up to expectations, especially when you invest in it for consistent cooking. It sounds like the Pit Boss is working out great for you! Thanks for sharing your experience good to know there are other solid options out there. Hopefully, Traeger steps up their game in the future!

 

[RayClem]

It will be interesting to see how you new Pit Boss performs over the next several years. Many of the parts are interchangeable between various brands, so you might not get the big change you hope for.

I have gone three years using my IW885 without a single issue other than the common temperature offset issues.