Questions about a vertical stuffer

jimmy58 · Joined: 15 Dec 2007 Posts: 9

I�m looking to buy a vertical 5 lb stuffer. I was wondering if the less expensive models work as good as the costlier ones.
I�ve been using my grinder to stuff and I really don�t care for the texture it leaves the meat after being run through the grinder a second time, and the amount that gets stuck and doesn�t make it into the casing. Does the 2 gear models and the air relief valves really make things that much easier?
Thanks for any feedback,
Jim

broncosmoker · BBQ Pro Joined: 04 Aug 2007 Posts: 717

Jim,

I have a few verticals and can recommend a couple things. First IMHO a five pounder is nice but if you are going to buy one get a 10 or even better 15#. When you get into making sausage five pound batches get small real quick. In all the vertical stuffers I have a air relief valve is a must, makes winding down the piston easier and less air onto your sausage. A problem that can be overcome with some modifications is getting all the meat out of the bottom of the piston and into the casings. Most stuffers on the bottom are angled towards the outlet and the piston does not come down all the way. Simply call up the manufacture and buy a spare piston, air valve, and large o ring. I have a LEM and it cost me about $25 for it. I then went to a plastic store around here and got a couple pieces of square 1x1x1 ($2) and glued them to the new piece. I then put this piece inthe stuffer when loaded and crank down with the original piston. This allow the new piston to go down further and push out more meat. Just my opinion on this I am sure more can chime in.

Scott

jimmy58 · Joined: 15 Dec 2007 Posts: 9

Scott,
Thanks for the feedback and the tips for the modifications.
It's always better to know beforehand what you may be in for before you buy...I just wish I knew then what I know now about how expensive car racing is before I jumped in with both feet and check book open..lol

Texas-Hunter · Posted: Dec 18 2007 Post subject:

I do agree with broncosmoker as for what to look for...I have a 5lb LEM V-Stuffer...Works great.. I don't have any problems with it being a 5lb apposed to a 15lb.

There are some inexpensive ones on the market...Make sure they have the stainless gears..Northern Tool has one, that has nylon gears..
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Ken

JamesB · Posted: Dec 18 2007 Post subject:

I just purchased the 5lb vertical stuffer from Northern Tools... It does have the nylon gears, I hope they don't prove to be a problem!

James.
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Texas-Hunter · Posted: Dec 18 2007 Post subject:

JamesB · Posted: Dec 19 2007 Post subject:

Actually it was the reviews that I got about it that helped me with my decision to get this one... Will need to report back after it gets some use...

Thx,
James.
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Jeff T · Posted: Dec 20 2007 Post subject:

JamesB · Posted: Dec 20 2007 Post subject:

Hey there Jeff... I know what ya mean about the 5 lber... It looked good sized in the store, but now that I've used it only once, I'm kinda wishing I had done what I always tell folks when they are considering a new pit... get the next size larger than you think you will ever need!

This one did work like a champ tho... at least for ~10lbs or so for a first run!

James.
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