BLACKSTONE 5249 Propane to Natural Gas Conversion Kit User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation and safe operation of your BLACKSTONE 5249 Propane to Natural Gas Conversion Kit. This kit is designed to convert compatible Blackstone propane griddles to operate on a natural gas supply, offering a continuous fuel source for your outdoor cooking equipment. Please read all instructions carefully before beginning the conversion process to ensure proper installation and safe use.

2. Safety Information

Your safety and the safety of others are paramount. Always follow these basic safety precautions when installing or operating this conversion kit.

• Professional Installation Recommended: Gas installations should ideally be performed by a qualified professional to ensure compliance with local codes and safety standards.
• Gas Leak Detection: Always perform a leak test after installation using a soap and water solution. Never use an open flame to check for gas leaks.
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation when working with gas appliances.
• Proposition 65 Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals including carbon monoxide, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
• Disconnect Power: Before any installation or maintenance, ensure the griddle is completely off and disconnected from any fuel source.
• Read Griddle Manual: Refer to your griddle's original instruction manual for additional safety guidelines specific to your appliance.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components listed below are present in your conversion kit package:

• 10 ft. (3/8”) Natural Gas Hose
• 3/8” Quick Connect Fitting
• Natural Gas Orifices (various sizes for compatibility)
• 2 Thread Check Gauges
• 7mm Orifice Wrench

4. Compatibility

This conversion kit is designed for specific Blackstone griddle models. Please confirm your griddle's compatibility before proceeding with installation.

Compatible Griddles:

• Blackstone 28” Griddles
• Blackstone 36” Griddles
• Blackstone Tailgaters
• Blackstone Range Top Combos
• Blackstone Single Burner Rec Stoves

Non-Compatible Griddles:

This kit is not optimized for the following models:

• Blackstone 17” Griddles
• Blackstone 22” Griddles
• Griddles with Propane Air Fryers
• Pizza Ovens

5. Setup Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to convert your griddle to natural gas. It is recommended to have a second person assist with leak testing.

5.1. Before You Begin

• Ensure your griddle is completely cool and all gas supply is turned off.
• Disconnect any existing propane tanks or gas lines.
• Gather necessary tools: adjustable wrench, pipe thread sealant (gas-rated), and a spray bottle with a soap and water solution for leak testing.

5.2. Orifice Replacement

The orifices control the gas flow to the burners. Propane and natural gas require different orifice sizes.

1. Locate the existing propane orifices on your griddle. These are typically found at the base of each burner tube. Refer to your griddle's manual for exact locations.
2. Using the 7mm orifice wrench provided, carefully unscrew and remove each propane orifice. Note that some orifices may be tight; apply steady pressure to avoid stripping.
3. Identify the correct natural gas orifices for your griddle model using the provided thread check gauges. The gauges will help match the thread size of the new orifices to your griddle's burner tubes.
4. Apply a small amount of gas-rated pipe thread sealant to the threads of each new natural gas orifice.
5. Carefully screw the new natural gas orifices into place using the 7mm orifice wrench. Tighten them securely, but do not overtighten, as brass fittings can be damaged.

5.3. Hose and Quick Connect Installation

This section details connecting the natural gas hose and quick connect fitting to your griddle and natural gas supply.

1. Locate the gas inlet on your griddle where the propane regulator was previously connected.
2. Attach the 3/8” quick connect fitting to the griddle's gas inlet. Apply pipe thread sealant to the threads and tighten with an adjustable wrench.
3. Connect the 10 ft. natural gas hose to the quick connect fitting on the griddle. Ensure it clicks securely into place.



4. Connect the other end of the 10 ft. natural gas hose to your home's natural gas supply line. This connection should also be sealed with pipe thread sealant and tightened securely.



5. Leak Test: Turn on the natural gas supply slowly. Spray all connections with the soap and water solution. If bubbles appear, turn off the gas immediately, tighten the connection, and re-test. Repeat until no bubbles are observed.

6. Operating Instructions

Once the conversion is complete and leak-tested, your griddle is ready for use with natural gas.

1. Ensure the natural gas supply valve is fully open.
2. Follow your griddle's original operating instructions for lighting the burners. Natural gas may ignite slightly differently than propane due to different pressure and BTU values, but the general lighting procedure remains the same.
3. Adjust burner controls as needed for desired cooking temperature.
4. After cooking, turn off all griddle burners and close the natural gas supply valve.

7. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your conversion kit and griddle.

• Hose Inspection: Periodically inspect the natural gas hose for any signs of wear, cracks, kinks, or damage. Replace immediately if any damage is found.
• Connection Checks: Annually, or if you suspect a leak, perform a leak test on all gas connections using the soap and water solution.
• Cleaning: Keep the quick connect fittings clean and free of debris to ensure a proper seal.
• Storage: If storing the griddle for an extended period, disconnect it from the natural gas supply and cap the gas line.

8. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues after converting to natural gas, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps.

• No Gas Flow to Burners:
  • Ensure the natural gas supply valve is fully open.
  • Check all quick connect fittings and hose connections for proper seating.
  • Verify that the correct natural gas orifices were installed.
• Low Flame or Inconsistent Heat:
  • Confirm the natural gas supply pressure is adequate.
  • Inspect orifices for any blockages or debris.
  • Ensure the griddle's burner tubes are clean and free of obstructions.
• Gas Odor:
  • Immediately turn off the natural gas supply.
  • Perform a thorough leak test on all connections.
  • If the odor persists or the source cannot be found, evacuate the area and contact your gas provider or a qualified professional.

If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, contact BLACKSTONE customer support or a certified gas technician.

9. Specifications

10. Support

For further assistance, technical support, or warranty inquiries, please refer to the official BLACKSTONE website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt and model number (5249) available when contacting support.