Heavy smoke leaking from lid, door, or seams instead of chimney

Safety first: Operate the grill in a well‑ventilated outdoor area only.

• Inspect the chimney and exhaust ports to ensure they are open and not blocked.
• Check the lid alignment and adjust hinges if possible so it closes evenly.
• Inspect the lid gasket (if equipped) and replace if compressed, burned, or missing.
• Minor smoke leakage is normal, but large leaks may indicate warping; contact Oklahoma Joe’s support if structural damage is suspected.

Warning: Do not attempt to bend or force the lid into shape while hot; metal can crack or deform further.