Used pressure cooker doesn't have k**b. Is that a problem?

Question

There's a used pressure cooker for like 8 bucks, but there's no k**b on top. Is that just a handle? Will it work without it?

If so, I've heard of pressure cookers that don't work due to missing parts, or bad seals. How do I make sure it'll work?

Gracias!

Answer 1

If the cooker is a bargain there is a reason for this,i use a pressure cooker a lot & it is a very useful handy utensil,provided it is in working condition ,with missing parts it can be either  be useless or positively dangerous. Gaskets & steam regulating weights need to be replaced from time to time even with careful use they wear out,make sure stores around you stock these items ,often specific to the brand in question.

All said & done i would pay the extra price for a brand new item if i mean to make the most of it,a good cooker will give years of service .

Answer 2

you wont be able to use it not as a pressue cooker anyway the k**b at the top regulates the steam, if you use it as is a jet of steam will just keep flying out of the top a tad dangerous too i think i know ive got the same scenario here at home i use mine (lid off) to boil spuds when we have visitors sorry

Answer 3

By "k**b", do you mean the weight that sits on top of the "regulator"? (The regulator is the little tube on the top of the lid that allows air to escape when the pan is heated.)

If so, then the pressure cooker is going to be of precisely no use because when you heat it up, virtually all the steam pressure that builds up inside the pan will escape directly through the little hole. The missing k**b rests on top of the hole and ensures that the steam inside the pan can only escape when the pressure on the underside of the weight can lift it up a little.

The other item that's often faulty on used pressure cookers is, as you say, the gasket around the bottom of the lid. Because they get hot, have various liquids spieled on them and work under pressure, it's not unusual for them to fail.

I wouldn't buy a used pressure cooker unless you were sure you could get a new weight and gasket, but I have no idea where you might obtain these items.