KONG CERAMIC KAMADO GRILL
OPERATION MANUAL
8
operation
Putting the Kong in Place for Use
Because the Kong is very heavy and difficult to move, enlist at least two to three persons to help you move
it to its final destination. First, remove all of the grill’s internal components, the lid, and the bottom (i.e, the
“outer shell”) to the destination of choice. Don’t loosen the grill’s outer bands or the lid’s hinge assembly.
Carefully place the unit on a wood table or metal stand, remembering that the manufacturer’s warranty will
not cover any damage inflicted by mishandling of the grill.
Once the unit is in place, you simply need to install the firebox and inside components as follows:
• Firebox:
The firebox is a one-piece unit with an air vent installed on the front of the unit. Carefully
position the firebox in the bottom of the grill, aligning the vent holes with the air control vent. This will
ensure proper airflow to your Kong.
• Inside components:
Place the ceramic bottom plate in the bottom of the firebox (the plate fits into the
base of the firebox with its surface facing upward). Put the bottom grate at the firebox’s mid-base with the
divider slots facing upward.
Lighting the Kong
First, place a newspaper roll and either solid relighters or lighter cubes on the Kong’s charcoal plate. Next,
put two to three handfuls of lump charcoal over the top of the newspaper. Open the bottom vent and use
either a long-nosed lighter or safety matches to light the newspaper. Once the newspaper catches, build a
small bed of hot embers by keeping the bottom vent and lid open for at least 10 minutes.
importan t
:
Never use gasoline, lighter fluid, alcohol, or other flammable substance to light or
relight your grill. Never overload the unit with fuel as intense heat may damage your grill.
The charcoal will heat up and should be allowed to remain red hot for at least 30 minutes before you use
your Kong for the first time. Leave the coals in position once they are lit, don’t try to turn or stoke them; this
will ensure a more uniform and efficient burn.
Be sure to use heat-resistant hand protection when touching the grill’s hot cooking surfaces or ceramics. You’ll
find a cooking temperature guide in this manual.
How to Extinguish Your Grill
Extinguish the Kong by closing all of the vents and the lid, stop adding fuel, and then letting the fire go out
naturally. Never use water or any other liquid to extinguish the charcoal; this may damage the ceramic Kong.
After Using Your Grill for the First Time
After using your grill for the first time, inspect all nuts and bolts to ensure that they are tight. Check and
tighten the metal band connecting the Kong’s lid to its base as this component will naturally expand from the
high temperatures and could become loose.