Alfresco AIPG BBQ Hood Adjustment Guide
This guide provides instructions for adjusting the opening and closing of the front hood on Alfresco AIPG units. The mechanism utilizes a spring-assisted weight compensation system designed to counterbalance the hood's weight during opening and assist its closure past the balance point.
The adjustment method depends on whether the AIPG BBQ unit is fixed to a countertop or resting freely. For units not permanently mounted (e.g., fixed with silicone) or installed in a cart, use the SIDE adjustment method. For units simply resting on a countertop, use the FRONT adjustment method.
SIDE ADJUSTMENT: (BBQ NOT FIXED IN PLACE)
If the AIPG BBQ is not permanently fixed, slide the unit forward approximately 3 inches to access the adjustment screws. This method is straightforward as it avoids removing the smoker and accessory drawer.
- Grasp the AIPG BBQ from the rear hood and pull it forward to slide it.
- WARNING: The BBQ is very heavy. Do not slide more than 3 inches between the front side mullions and the countertop front face, as it is not necessary.
With the AIPG BBQ slid forward, the adjustment screws become accessible from the sides. On each side, there are two access points for adjusting the front hood's opening and closing positions:
- The Hood Closing Screw is located immediately behind the front mullion on each side.
- The Hood Opening Screw is positioned approximately 2 inches behind and lower than the closing screws.
These screws can be adjusted using a 7/16" open wrench.
The top adjustment screws are for closing the hood (related to the front gap when closing). Turning these screws counter-clockwise (unscrewing) increases spring pressure, causing the hood to open. Turning them clockwise (screwing) decreases spring pressure, causing the hood to close.
To adjust, slightly open the hood (6-12 inches) to release spring pressure, making adjustments easier. Adjust the top screws (hood closing screws) equally on both sides, in 1/2 to 1 turn increments, to ensure balance.
Lower the hood and check the gap between the rubber bumper corner stops and the perimeter rim (front bullnose). Adjust the screws until the bumpers lightly touch. If the springs are over-tightened, the bumper stops may not fully contact the rim. In such cases, turn the screw clockwise by 1/4 to 1/2 turn to reduce spring pressure, allowing the bumpers to rest on the rim.
If necessary, adjust the Hood Opening Screws. Check the hood's rear gap to the perimeter rim when fully open. Test by opening the front hood completely. When fully open, the hood should not touch the rear perimeter rim, maintaining an approximate 1/2 inch gap. If the hood is touching, turn both screws counter-clockwise to increase spring pressure and prevent contact.
Once adjusted, push the AIPG BBQ back into the counter until the side mullions contact the front of the unit. Your front hood adjustment is now complete.
Note: The cover is removed in diagrams for component visibility only and is not necessary to remove for adjustment.
Diagram Description: An illustration shows the side of the BBQ with arrows indicating the direction to slide the unit forward. Labels point to the 'REAR HOOD' and 'FRONT MULLIONS'. Another diagram shows the accessible adjustment screws on the side, labeled 'HOOD CLOSING SCREW' and 'HOOD OPENING SCREW'. A third diagram illustrates the effect of turning screws clockwise (less pressure) and counter-clockwise (more pressure) on the hood's spring system. A final diagram shows the front of the BBQ with the hood partially open, indicating a '1/2" GAP MAXIMUM' between the 'BUMPER STOP' and the 'PERIMETER RIM'.
FRONT ADJUSTMENT: (BBQ FIXED IN PLACE)
If the AIPG BBQ is permanently fixed:
- Unplug the unit from its power source.
- Open the front drawer.
- Remove all accessories to reduce weight.
- Press the side latches to release the drawer. WARNING: The drawer is heavy (20-25 lbs); seek assistance if needed.
- Pull the drawer back until it releases from the side track guides and set it aside.
- Remove the main burners' gas knobs by pulling them straight off the gas valve stems.
- Remove the front panel using a Philips #2 screwdriver. There are 6 screws in total.
- Remove the front bullnose assembly by removing 6 indicated screws.
- Lift the bullnose forward and disconnect the electrical harness for the switches on the right side of the bullnose. Set aside.
On the front of the AIPG BBQ, there are four access locations on each side for adjusting the front hood position. These screws can be adjusted using a 7/16" socket and wrench or a 3/16" Allen key.
The top adjustment screws are the CLOSING screws, affecting the front gap when the hood is closed. To adjust, slightly open the hood (6-12 inches) to release support pressure.
- Counter-clockwise (unscrewing) increases spring pressure and opens the hood.
- Clockwise (screwing) decreases spring pressure and closes the hood.
Adjust the top screws (hood closing screws) equally on both sides, in 1/2 to 1 turn increments, to balance them.
Lower the hood and check the gap between the rubber bumper corner stops and the perimeter rim (front bullnose). Adjust screws until bumpers lightly touch. If over-adjusted, the stops may not touch. In this case, turn the screw clockwise 1/4 to 1/2 turn to decrease pressure and allow contact.
If necessary, adjust the bottom screws (hood opening screws) equally on both sides, in 1/2 to 1 turn increments. Test by opening the front hood fully. It should not touch the rear perimeter rim, maintaining approximately a 1/2 inch gap. If it touches, turn both screws counter-clockwise to increase spring pressure and prevent contact.
Once the front hood is fully adjusted, reinstall the front bullnose perimeter by reversing the removal steps. Reconnect the harness to the front switches, reinstall the front control panel, and finally, reinstall the gas valve knobs onto the stems. Your front hood adjustment is now complete.
Note: The cover is removed in diagrams for component visibility only and is not necessary to remove for adjustment.
Diagram Description: An illustration shows the front of the BBQ with the drawer partially removed. Arrows indicate the locations of screws for removing the front panel and bullnose assembly. Another diagram highlights the adjustment screws on the front of the unit, labeled 'HOOD CLOSING SCREW' and 'HOOD OPENING SCREW'. A close-up shows the mechanism with springs, indicating 'CLOCKWISE LESS PRESSURE' and 'COUNTER CLOCKWISE MORE PRESSURE'.
