Blackstone On The Go Tailgator Grill Griddle Combo User Manual

1. Introduction

Welcome to the world of versatile outdoor cooking with your new Blackstone On The Go Tailgator Grill Griddle Combo. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your unit. Please read it thoroughly before first use and keep it for future reference.

This grill and griddle combo offers the flexibility to cook on both surfaces simultaneously, each measuring 17 inches, providing a total of 534 square inches of cooking space. It is designed for portability and durability, making it ideal for various outdoor cooking scenarios.

Safety Information

WARNING: For outdoor use only. Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other appliance. Always ensure proper ventilation. Keep children and pets away from the hot appliance.

2. Product Components

Your Blackstone On The Go Tailgator is designed for convenience and performance. Familiarize yourself with its key components:

• Dual Cooking Surfaces: Features a BBQ grill on one side and a flat-top griddle on the other. Both surfaces are 17 inches each.
• Independent Heat Controls: Each cooking area has individual heat controls for precise temperature management.
• Ignition System: No-fuss ignition for quick starts.
• Side Shelf: Provides ample space for food preparation and utensil placement.
• Caster Wheels: Two industrial-strength caster wheels for easy movement.
• Collapsible Design: The unit is designed to collapse for compact storage and transport.
• Grease Management System: Integrated grease trap for easy cleanup.
• Construction: Heavy-duty metal construction with powder-coating for rust resistance, rolled steel griddle plate, and durable cast iron grill grates.

Figure 2.1: Overview of the Blackstone On The Go Tailgator Grill Griddle Combo. This image shows the full assembly with both the grill and griddle surfaces, control knobs, side shelf, and wheels.

Figure 2.2: Close-up view of the ignitor knob and control panel. The ignitor ensures quick and reliable startup for your cooking sessions.

3. Setup and Assembly

The Blackstone On The Go Tailgator is designed for user-friendly assembly, typically taking 10-15 minutes. Follow these steps for initial setup:

1. Unpack Components: Carefully remove all parts from the packaging. Verify all components are present according to the packing list.
2. Assemble Stand: Extend the collapsible stand and ensure it locks securely into place. Attach the wheels to the designated side for portability.
3. Mount Main Unit: Place the main grill/griddle unit onto the assembled stand, ensuring it is stable and properly seated.
4. Install Cooking Surfaces: Place the cast iron grill grates onto the grill side and the rolled steel griddle plate onto the griddle side. Ensure they fit snugly.
5. Attach Side Shelf: Secure the side shelf to the main unit.
6. Connect Propane: Connect your propane tank to the unit's hookup. Ensure all connections are tight and leak-free before operation.

Figure 3.1: The Blackstone Tailgator in its portable configuration, being pulled by a user. The collapsible design and wheels make it easy to transport for tailgating, camping, or backyard use.

4. Operating Instructions

Initial Seasoning (Griddle)

Before first use, it is crucial to season your griddle surface to create a non-stick cooking surface and protect it from rust. This process should be repeated several times for optimal results.

1. Clean the Griddle: Wash the griddle surface with hot, soapy water to remove any manufacturing residues. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
2. Heat the Griddle: Turn on the griddle burners to medium-high heat and allow the surface to heat up for 10-15 minutes until it starts to change color (darken).
3. Apply Seasoning: Apply 2-3 tablespoons of Blackstone Griddle Seasoning & Cast Iron Conditioner (or a high smoke point oil like flaxseed, grapeseed, or vegetable oil) directly onto the hot griddle surface.
4. Spread Evenly: Use a paper towel held with tongs to spread the seasoning evenly across the entire griddle surface, including the sides. Ensure there is no pooling.
5. Burn Off: Allow the griddle to heat until the oil burns off and stops smoking (approximately 6-10 minutes). The surface should turn dark brown or black.
6. Repeat: Repeat steps 3-5 at least 3-5 times, or until the griddle surface has a uniform, dark, non-stick finish.

General Operation

• Lighting the Burners: Ensure the propane tank is connected and the gas supply is open. Push and turn the control knob to the "LIGHT" position while pressing the ignitor button until the burner ignites. Adjust to desired heat.
• Temperature Control: The adjustable ignitor allows for versatile cooking temperatures across the surfaces. The grill side features a temperature gauge ranging from 140°F to 800°F (60°C to 427°C).
• Cooking Versatility: Use the griddle for items like pancakes, eggs, stir-fries, and smash burgers. The grill is perfect for achieving grill marks on meats and vegetables.

Figure 4.3: The Blackstone Tailgator in action, demonstrating simultaneous cooking on both the grill and griddle surfaces. This setup allows for diverse meal preparation at once.

Figure 4.4: A close-up view of food cooking on the grill grates, highlighting the durable cast iron construction and effective heat distribution.

Figure 4.5: Another perspective of the grill and griddle combo in use, showcasing the ample cooking space and the ability to prepare different types of food side-by-side.

Figure 4.6: The integrated side burner, designed to accommodate pots and pans, expanding your cooking capabilities beyond just grilling and griddling.

5. Maintenance and Care

Cleaning the Griddle

• After Each Use: While the griddle is still warm, scrape off any food residue with a griddle scraper.
• Wipe Down: Wipe the surface clean with a paper towel. For stubborn residue, pour a small amount of water onto the hot griddle and scrape.
• Re-oil: Apply a thin layer of cooking oil after each cleaning to maintain the seasoning and prevent rust.
• Grease Trap: Empty and clean the grease trap regularly. The unit features a convenient grease management system with tin foil liners for easy disposal.

Cleaning the Grill Grates

• After Each Use: Use a grill brush to remove food particles from the cast iron grates while they are still warm.
• Deep Cleaning: For a more thorough clean, the grill grates are removable and can be washed with warm, soapy water. Ensure they are completely dry before storing.

Storage

When not in use, store your Blackstone Tailgator in a dry, protected area. The collapsible design allows for compact storage. Consider using a weather-resistant cover to protect it from the elements.

6. Troubleshooting

7. Specifications

8. Warranty & Support

For warranty information, replacement parts, or technical assistance, please contact Blackstone customer support. Details regarding your product's warranty coverage can typically be found on the manufacturer's official website or within the product packaging.

Manufacturer: Blackstone

For more information, visit the official BLACKSTONE Store.