How to Properly Take Care of American Eagle Meat Grinder

What is the proper way to clean and take care of the meat grinder?

By following the below points when using the meat grinder as well as when cleaning the unit, you will ensure that the grinder will remain functioning for a long time. 

While Using The Meat Grinder

  1. Let the motor rest after continuously using it. If you have the 1.5 HP, you can run it longer continuously compared to the 1HP, however we generally recommend resting the machines approximately every 30 minutes or when you feel the motor housing become warm.
  2. Do not over-turn the Forward/Reverse switch. In the unlikely event that the grinder jams, switch to OFF so that the grinder stops completely before switching to REV to run the motor in reverse for a few seconds.
  3. Do not force the meat through the feed chamber. Use the meat pusher, and allow the meat strips to fall into the feed chamber and let the auger do the work to pull the meat through.
  4. The teflon washer needs to be on the auger.
  5. The coupling ring cannot be over tightened. The coupling ring should only be hand tightened, and once tightened it should be rotated backward very slightly, at most about 1/8". The knife should touch slightly against the grinder plate, but be able to rotate freely. 
  6. Do not operate the grinder without the feeder pan installed.
  7. Do not run the machine empty for a continuous period of time. Begin feeding the meat shortly after turning on the machine, and turn off the machine shortly after you finish processing.
  8. Do not operate it outdoors, or in extremely hot or cold air temperature. Only operate the grinder between 45ºF and 95ºF (7.2ºC to 35ºC).
  9. Only grind thawed, chilled, or fresh meat only. Grinding completely frozen meat or other types of hard or non-meat products may cause damage to the machine.
  10. We recommend chilling the meat to 32-34ºF for best results.

When Cleaning The Meat Grinder

  1. Always make sure it is off and disconnected from the power outlet.
  2. Do not wash the knife or plate with steam or hot water immediately after grinding chilled meat.
  3. Do not immerse the motor unit in water. Also, do not pressure wash, spray down, or pour water onto the grinder.
  4. Do not use products that contain sodium hypochlorite (bleach), or use an abrasive material such as scrubber pad or steel wool on the machine. 
  5. After disassembling the grinder, clean and sanitize the components and the motor unit housing with a mild detergent and warm water solution. 
  6. Use a wire brush to remove any meat stuck inside of the holes of the grinder plate(s). Do not strike the plate against a hard surface or hit the plate to remove the meat.
  7. Allow the parts to air dry, or wipe dry before placing them back in the grinder.
  8. Wipe the plates and knives with mineral oil/cooking oil, or spray on a coating of food grade silicone after cleaning (or for long term storage as cooking oil may spoil long term) to help protect these items from premature wear. If the machine is used often (i.e. daily or multiple times per week), cooking oil/spray an be used to coat the plates/knives to prevent rusting.