cutting thermometer probe?

[odie]

question on the dial thermometers that everyone mounts to their kettle and HLTs....

the probe...can you cut it down if you need to clean something? Is it a solid metal piece? I have 2 of these and they are different lengths...is the length specific to the thermometer for calibration or just a random length of rod that needs to stick into the liquid?

I'm going to install a basket and the probe sticks in too far...I can plug the hole and go without but I kinda like a dial therm on the kettle.

maybe just look for a "stubby" one?

 

[tll77]

maybe just look for a "stubby" one?

yes. You cant cut the probe and have it still function. There is a twist of two metals inside the probe and the must stay intact up to the tip.

in a pinch you could use fittings on the outside of the bulkhead to decrease penetration into the kettle

 

[odie]

Yep. I just realized what an incredibly stupid idea.
Just went on eBay and found a SS bushing and female coupling to do just that...less than 2 bucks...problem solved...lol