Camp Chef Sidekick Burner Not Igniting — Sear Box Fix

What Does This Error Mean?

Camp Chef Sidekick or Sear Box uses a propane burner with electronic ignition.
If it won't light: check propane tank (could be empty), confirm tank valve fully open, listen for igniter clicking, and check the burner ports for spider webs (very common).
Spiders love to nest in unused gas burners — clean every spring.

Affected Models

Camp Chef Woodwind with Sidekick
Camp Chef SmokePro DLX with Sear Box
Camp Chef Apex with Sidekick

Common Causes

Propane tank empty or valve closed
Igniter battery dead (some models use AA battery)
Spider webs blocking burner ports
Igniter electrode dirty or corroded
Gas regulator failed
Hose-end fitting leaking (gas escapes, not enough at burner)

How to Fix It

Check the propane tank.

Disconnect tank, weigh it.
Empty 20-lb tank weighs about 18 lbs (tare weight).
Full weighs ~38 lbs.
Below 22 lbs = nearly empty.
Refill before assuming Sidekick fault.
Open the valve fully.

Tank valve should be opened all the way (counter-clockwise).
Half-open restricts flow.
Some users tighten too gently, valve barely opens — turn confidently.
Inspect burner ports.

Lift the burner cover or grate.
Look at the burner ports (small holes around the burner ring).
Spider webs blocking ports = no gas flow = no flame.
Use a soft brush or pipe cleaner to clear ports.
Check igniter battery.

Some Camp Chef Sidekicks use an AA battery for ignition.
Battery cap on the side of the unit.
Replace with fresh alkaline.
Click ignition button — should hear repeated clicking.
Listen for clicking.

Press and hold the igniter button.
You should hear rapid clicking (sparks) for 5-10 seconds.
No clicking = igniter dead, battery dead, or wire broken.
Steady clicking but no flame = gas not arriving at burner.
Light with a match as test.

Turn off ignition, hold a long lighter near the burner, slowly open the gas valve at the Sidekick.
Match-lit flame confirms gas IS arriving.
Then the igniter is the issue (replacement is 30-60 USD).
Test for leaks with soapy water.

Mix dish soap and water 50/50.
Brush onto every gas connection (tank to regulator, regulator to hose, hose to Sidekick).
Bubbles = gas leak.
Tighten or replace fittings until no bubbles.
Don't ignite if leaks present.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I store with propane connected over winter?

Camp Chef recommends disconnecting tank for storage.
Propane regulators can leak slowly when not in use.
Disconnect, store tank outdoors away from fire risk.
Reconnect each spring, leak-test before lighting.