LEM Products Mighty Bite Vertical Stainless Steel 5 Pound Capacity Sausage Stuffer User Manual

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the LEM Products Mighty Bite Vertical Stainless Steel 5 Pound Capacity Sausage Stuffer. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and care of your new sausage stuffer. Please read this manual thoroughly before initial use and retain it for future reference.

Image: The LEM Mighty Bite 5 lb Vertical Stainless Steel Sausage Stuffer with its components, including the main unit, cylinder, and plastic stuffing tubes.

Safety Information

• Always read and understand all instructions before operating the stuffer.
• Keep hands and fingers clear of moving parts, especially the crank and piston mechanism, during operation.
• Ensure the stuffer is securely mounted to a stable surface using the provided C-clamps before use to prevent tipping or movement.
• Do not force the crank if resistance is met; check for obstructions or improper assembly.
• Keep children and pets away from the stuffer during operation and storage.
• Clean all components thoroughly before first use and after each subsequent use to maintain hygiene and prevent bacterial growth.
• Use only genuine LEM replacement parts and accessories.

Parts List

Your LEM Mighty Bite Sausage Stuffer package should include the following components:

• Main Stuffer Unit (Base with vertical rods and gear housing)
• Stainless Steel Cylinder (5 lb capacity)
• Piston with Air Release Valve
• Crank Handle
• 3 Plastic Stuffing Tubes (11/16", 7/8", and 1" outer diameter)
• 2 C-Clamps for mounting

Image: Exploded view of the sausage stuffer showing the removable cylinder, piston, and various stuffing tubes.

Setup

1. Unpacking and Initial Cleaning

1. Carefully remove all components from the packaging.
2. Wash all parts that will come into contact with food (cylinder, piston, stuffing tubes) with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
3. Wipe down the main stuffer unit with a damp cloth.

2. Assembly and Mounting

1. Place the main stuffer unit on a sturdy, flat surface.
2. Secure the stuffer to the surface using the two provided C-clamps. Ensure it is firmly attached to prevent movement during operation.
3. Raise the piston all the way to the top by rotating the crank handle counter-clockwise.
4. Insert the stainless steel cylinder into the base, ensuring it locks securely into place.
5. Select the appropriate plastic stuffing tube for your desired sausage size and attach it to the cylinder's nozzle.

Image: A person demonstrating the process of filling the stuffer's cylinder with prepared meat mixture.

Operating Instructions

1. Preparing Your Meat Mixture

• Ensure your sausage mixture is well-chilled and properly mixed.
• The consistency of the meat mixture is crucial for smooth stuffing. It should not be too dry or too wet.

2. Filling the Cylinder

1. With the piston fully raised, carefully load your prepared meat mixture into the stainless steel cylinder.
2. Avoid overfilling; leave approximately 1 inch of space from the top to prevent overflow when the piston descends.

3. Attaching Casings

• Carefully slide your chosen casing (natural or collagen) onto the end of the stuffing tube.
• Gather the casing onto the tube, leaving a small amount hanging off the end to tie off later.

Image: Close-up of hands carefully sliding a sausage casing onto the end of a stuffing tube.

4. Stuffing Operation

1. Begin turning the crank handle clockwise. The piston will slowly descend, pushing the meat mixture through the stuffing tube and into the casing.
2. The piston features a built-in air release valve to help eliminate air pockets in your sausage.
3. Control the speed of stuffing by adjusting your cranking pace. Aim for an even fill without over-stuffing, which can lead to burst casings.
4. As the casing fills, gently guide it off the tube.
5. Once the desired length is stuffed, tie off the end of the casing.

Image: A visual comparison of the 5 lb and 15 lb sausage stuffers, highlighting their capacities for small and large batch sausage making.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Proper cleaning and maintenance will extend the life of your sausage stuffer.

1. Disassembly for Cleaning

1. After use, raise the piston completely.
2. Remove the stainless steel cylinder from the base.
3. Detach the stuffing tube.
4. The piston can be removed from the main unit for thorough cleaning.

2. Cleaning Procedures

• Wash the stainless steel cylinder, piston, and stuffing tubes immediately after use with warm, soapy water. Use a brush to remove any meat residue.
• Rinse all parts thoroughly with clean water.
• Dry all components completely to prevent water spots and rust, especially on stainless steel parts.
• Wipe down the main stuffer unit and gear housing with a damp cloth, then dry. Do not submerge the main unit in water.

3. Lubrication and Storage

• Periodically apply a food-grade lubricant (e.g., vegetable oil) to the piston's O-ring to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear.
• Store the stuffer in a clean, dry place when not in use.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your sausage stuffer, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

Specifications

Warranty & Support

LEM Products offers a two-year factory warranty on your Mighty Bite Vertical Stainless Steel Sausage Stuffer. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.

For any issues, questions, or to inquire about replacement parts, please contact LEM Products customer support. We are committed to providing lifetime customer support for our products.

Visit the official LEM website or refer to your product packaging for the most current contact information.