Cracked Heat Probe Wire on a SM045

Found part of my answer. $45 isn't crazy!

I just read on their website that it has a 2 Year limited warranty, parts only. So I will take this up direct with CS.  But appreciate any others having a similar experience.

I've not had any cracking and my 066 10 years old.  I coil my cable loosely and lay on the rack inside the smoker.

The outer sheath (plastic) on the probe for my 066 melted at the spot where the wire exits the smoker and rests against the edge of the vent hole. I can see the two probe wires. I bought the replacement from CS that you found. This was at least two years ago and the original probe still hasn't failed, so i haven't replaced it yet. I am more careful to not let that section of the wire get any more damaged. I think the replacement probe uses a more heat-resistant outer sheath.

I sent CS an email advising of my problem and will see what they propose. Maybe they will send me a replacement probe for warranty, and I'll keep it in safekeeping till the original fails.  It is just a hairline crack, and it isn't the part that goes inside, it is still outside. It is possible it was near the hole or at the hole at some point, but as I recall that hole has like a soft grommet protecting the hole from sharp edges? I'll try to get a close-up photo and post that.

I heard back from CS and they will send me out a new probe. Told me to be careful and to check the vent hole has no burrs in it.

The wire almost looks like someone took a wire cutter to it to pull off the outer casing. The crack or cut goes all around full circle.  I'm thinking it may be age or temp damage?

I've had it for less than a year so far, but as expected the nice folks at CS took care of me.

Good outcome! When the replacement probe was $90, I held off but when they dropped it to $45, i bought it. Out of warranty for me.