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when making popcorn the amount of oil is about a teaspoon full and not much more
it is the heat of the pot that boils off the water in the corn kernels that makes them explode and not the oil

place a teaspoon of cooking oil in the pot and place on stove. Put a small amount of corn to be popped in the pot and the heat will do the rest. 1/4 cup of corn will probably overflow the pot so use small amounts first until you get the idea.

just replace the thermostat. part number 47676

If the drum is turning, then it should work. Are you putting enough oil in the pot? Make sure you let it heat the oil for a little bit before adding the popcorn. If you dont have enough oil or heat it will not heat the kernals properly and burn them. You just need enough to cover the bottom of the pot an 1/8 inch so.

First, if you have another cord like this one (for example, a coffee pot cord) plug it into the popper and see if it works.

If it's not the cord, it's probably a blown thermal fuse inside the unit. Could be a heating element broken as well. If you don't have appliance repair experience, I would take it to a repair shop.

I had the same problem when I firs bought mine. I followed the instructions as to the proportion of corn to oil. Forget the book! I found that with this machine I had to use three times the oil that was caled for in the instructions to get all of the corn to pop. Better yet, we started purchasing the premade kits with the oil, popcorn and salt. Since changing to both of these systems we have enjoyed GREAT ppcorn!

there is insulation between the element and the outer kettle. This insulation can get brittle and crumble with age. I was lookiing for some parts as I have this kettle also and was told the kettle and parts are no longer available. If anyone has access to these parts please email me at [email protected]. Thank you. Gary

Heat the pot again -- the positive pressure inside will break the seal and allow the lid to come off.

I use an old heavy 3-quart alumnium sauce pan with a loose-fitting lid, canola oil, and high heat with about 1/2-cup of standard grocery-store yellow popcorn. I get the empty pot nice and hot, add the oil, then the corn, then the pot lid. I shake it occasionally, but basically let it go until the lid starts to rise off the pot, and I don't hear any more pops. Pour it into a large bowl, toss it with very fine sea salt, and go to town! It's also fantastic made with bacon fat, but you need to use slightly lower heat to keep it from burning and prepare for visitors: The smell of popcorn and bacon fat draws crowds.