Southbend GFS Series Operation Manual

IMPORTANT FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

Please complete this information and retain this
manual for the life of the equipment:

Model #: __________________________

Serial #: __________________________

Date Purchased: ___________________

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

Free-Standing, Floor Model

GFS Series Tube Fryers

Model GFS35 Model GFS45 Model GFS65

! WARNING

Improper installation, adjustment, alteration, service or maintenance can cause property damage,

injury or death. Read the installation, operating and maintenance instructions thoroughly before

installing or servicing this equipment.

1100 Old Honeycutt Road, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526

[phone] or [phone] • FAX [phone] or [phone]

MANUAL 1182026 REV 2
$10.00

GFS SERIES TUBE FRYERS

MANUAL SECTION SR

Safety Precautions

Before installing and operating this equipment, be sure everyone involved in its operation is fully trained and
aware of precautions. Accidents and problems can be caused by failure to follow fundamental rules and
precautions.

The following symbols, found throughout this manual, alert you to potentially dangerous conditions to the
operator, service personnel, or to the equipment.

! DANGER

! WARNING

! CAUTION

NOTICE

This symbol warns of immediate hazards that will result in severe injury or
death.

This symbol refers to a potential hazard or unsafe practice that could result in
injury or death.

This symbol refers to a potential hazard or unsafe practice that could result in
injury, product damage, or property damage.

This symbol refers to information that needs special attention or must be fully
understood, even though not dangerous.

! WARNING

FIRE HAZARD

FOR YOUR SAFETY

Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other
appliance.

Keep area around appliances free and clear of combustibles.

Purchaser of equipment must post in a prominent location, detailed instructions to be followed in the
event the operator smells gas. Obtain the instructions from the local gas supplier.

! WARNING

BURN HAZARD

Contact with hot oil will cause severe burns. Always use caution. Oil at 200°F is more dangerous than
boiling water.

! WARNING

In the event a gas odor is detected, shut down equipment at the combination gas valve and contact
the local gas company or gas supplier for service.

NOTICE

Southbend GFS Series Tube Fryers are intended for commercial use only. Not for household use.

Warranty will be void if service work is performed by other than a qualified technician, or if other than
genuine Southbend replacement parts are installed

Be sure this Operator’s Manual and important papers are given to the proper authority to retain for
future reference.

PAGE 2OPERATOR’S MANUAL 1182026 REV 2

GFS SERIES TUBE FRYERS TABLE OF CONTENTS

Congratulations! You have purchased one of the finest pieces of heavy-duty commercial cooking equipment
on the market.

You will find that your new equipment, like all Southbend equipment, has been designed and manufactured
to meet the toughest standards in the industry. Each piece of Southbend equipment is carefully engineered
and designs are verified through laboratory tests and field installations. With proper care and field
maintenance, you will experience years of reliable, trouble-free operation. For best results, read this

manual carefully.

RETAIN THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

Model Numbers

This manual is for Southbend Free-Standing, Floor Model, GFS Series Tube Fryers models GFS35. GFS45.
and GFS65. The serial plate is located inside the front door on the left side.

Table of Contents

Specifications ..........................................................................................................................4

Installation...............................................................................................................................6

Operation ..............................................................................................................................12

Cooking Hints........................................................................................................................15

Cleaning................................................................................................................................17

Service ..................................................................................................................................20

Parts......................................................................................................................................25

Read these instructions carefully before attempting installation. Installation and initial startup should be
performed by a qualified installer. Unless the installation instructions for this product are followed by a
qualified service technician (a person experienced in and knowledgeable with the installation of commercial
gas an/or electric cooking equipment) then the terms and conditions on the Manufacturer’s Limited Warranty
will be rendered void and no warranty of any kind shall apply.

In the event you have questions concerning the installation, use, care, or service of the product, write to:

Technical Service Department

Southbend

1100 Old Honeycutt Road

Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina 27526 USA

OPERATOR’S MANUAL 1182026 REV 2PAGE 3

SPECIFICATIONS GFS SERIES TUBE FRYERS

A

w

w

w

SPECIFICATIONS

SPECIFICATIONS

Dimensions

Model GFS65 Shown

C

D

H

B

Top Vie

Model

GFS35

GFS45

GFS65

F

G

Front Vie

Width Depth Height Gas Connection

ABCDEFGH I

15.7"
(399)

15.7"
(399)

19.6"
(498)

14.2"
(361)

14.2"
(361)

18.2"
(462)

31.0"
(787)

31.0"
(787)

34.3"
(871)

14.7"
(373)

14.7"
(373)

17.9"
(455)

47.6"

(1209)

47.6"

(1209)

47.6"

(1209)

36.2"
(919)

36.2"
(919)

36.2"
(919)

6.1"

(155)

6.1"

(155)

6.1"

(155)

Side Vie

(107)

(107)

(122)

4.2"

4.2"

4.8"

8.7"

(221)

8.7"

(221)

8.7"

(221)

I

Total

BTU/hr

105,900

140,900

175,900

E

Crated

Weight

190 lbs

86.4 kg

205 lbs

93.2 kg

240 lbs

109.1 kg

PAGE 4OPERATOR’S MANUAL 1182026 REV 2

GFS SERIES TUBE FRYERS SPECIFICATIONS

Gas Supply Requirements and Burner Information

Supply pressure should be greater than 7" W.C. for natural gas or greater than 11" W.C. for propane. One
3/4" NPT male connector located on back (see illustrations on pages 4 and 7).

SPECIFICATIONS

Model Burners Gas Type

Main

GFS35

Pilot

Main

GFS45

Pilot

Main

GFS65

Pilot

Natural 4" W.C. 3 35,000 105,000 #36 - 0.1065" dia.

Propane 10" W.C. 3 30,000 90,000 #52 - 0.0635" dia.

Natural 4" W.C. 1 900 900 #77 - 0.0180" dia.

Propane 10" W.C. 1 900 900 0.0110" dia.

Natural 4" W.C. 4 35,000 140,000 #36 - 0.1065" dia.

Propane 10" W.C. 4 30,000 120,000 #52 - 0.0635" dia.

Natural 4" W.C. 1 900 900 #77 - 0.0180" dia.

Propane 10" W.C. 1 900 900 0.0110" dia.

Natural 4" W.C. 5 35,000 175,000 #36 - 0.1065" dia.

Propane 10" W.C. 5 30,000 150,000 #52 - 0.0635" dia.

Natural 4" W.C. 1 900 900 #77 - 0.0180" dia.

Propane 10" W.C. 1 900 900 0.0110" dia.

Manifold
Pressure

Electrical Requirement

No external electric power is required.

Clearances

See page 9.

Number
per Unit

Rate Each

BTUs/Hour

Total Rate

BTUs/Hour

Orifice Size

OPERATOR’S MANUAL 1182026 REV 2PAGE 5

INSTALLATION GFS SERIES TUBE FRYERS

INSTALLATION

Installation must conform with local codes, or in the absence of local codes, with the National Fuel

Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1, Natural Gas Installation Code, CAN/CGA-B149.1, or the Propane
Installation Code, CAN/CGA-B149.2, as applicable.

INSTALLATION

These installation procedures must be followed by qualified personnel or warranty will be void.

Local codes regarding installation vary greatly from one area to another. The National Fire Protection
Association, Inc. states in its NFPA 96 latest edition that local codes are the “authority having
jurisdiction” when it comes to installation requirements for equipment.

NOTICE

NOTICE

Step 1: Unpack

IMMEDIATELY INSPECT FOR SHIPPING DAMAGE

All containers should be examined for damage before and during unloading. The freight carrier has
assumed responsibility for safe transit and delivery. If damaged equipment is received, either
apparent or concealed, a claim must be made with the delivering carrier.

Apparent damage or loss must be noted on the freight bill at the time of delivery. The freight bill must
then be signed by the carrier representative (Driver). If the bill is not signed, the carrier may refuse
the claim. The carrier can supply the necessary forms.

A request for inspection must be made to the carrier within 15 days if there is concealed damage or
loss that is not apparent until after the equipment is uncrated. The carrier should arrange an
inspection. Be certain to hold all contents plus all packing material.

1. Uncrate carefully. Report any hidden damage to the freight carrier IMMEDIATELY.

2. Do not remove any tags or labels until unit is installed and working properly.

Step 2: Install Flue Riser

The flue riser assembly is packed separately in the fryer shipping crate. Attach the flue riser to the top rear of
the fryer (see illustration on page 7).

PAGE 6OPERATOR’S MANUAL 1182026 REV 2

GFS SERIES TUBE FRYERS INSTALLATION

Installation

Flue Riser

INSTALLATION

Gas Connection

Leg Attachment Pad

OPERATOR’S MANUAL 1182026 REV 2PAGE 7

INSTALLATION GFS SERIES TUBE FRYERS

Step 3: Install the Legs (or Casters) and Restraints

A set of legs or casters is packed with the fryer. A threaded pad is fastened to the base frame at each corner
(see illustration on page 7). Each leg or caster has a similar mating thread. When casters have been
ordered, the casters are provided with a Zerk fitting for proper lubrication when required.

1. Raise fryer sufficiently to allow legs or casters to be screwed into the pads. For safety, “shore up” and
support the fryer with an adequate blocking arrangement strong enough to support the load.

2. Screw the four legs or casters to the pads on the bottom of the fryer. When casters have been ordered,
the casters having a locking-brake should be attached under the front of the fryer.

3. Lower the fryer gently. Never drop or allow the fryer to fall.

4. Use a level to make sure that the fryer is level. Each caster, or the tubular-end of each leg, can be

INSTALLATION

screwed in or out to lower or raise each corner of the fryer. For fryers having casters, tighten the lock
nuts after the unit has been leveled.

5. Attach restraints as required by local codes.

NOTICE

Unit must be level to assure maximum performance. Improper leveling may void warranty.

NOTICE

Adequate restraining means must be attached to rear of appliance when installed. Installation must
conform to local codes as applicable.

! WARNING

If disconnection of the restraint is necessary to move the appliance for cleaning, etc., reconnect it
when the appliance is moved to its original installed position.

! WARNING

For an appliance equipped with casters, the installation shall be made with a connector that complies
with the Standard for Connectors for Movable Gas Appliances, ANSI Z21.69 or Connectors for
Moveable Gas Appliances, CAN/CGA-6.16, and a quick-disconnect device that complies with the
Standard for Quick-Disconnect Devices for Use With Gas Fuel, ANSI Z21.41, or Quick Disconnect
Devices for Use with Gas Fuel, CAN1-6.9. Adequate means must be provided to limit the movement
of the appliance without depending on the connector and the quick-disconnect device or its
associated piping to limit the appliance movement.

! WARNING

All GFS Series Fryers must be restrained to prevent tipping in order to avoid the splashing of hot
liquid. The means of restraint may be the manner of installation, such as connection to a battery of
appliances or installing the fryer in an alcove, or by separate means, such as adequate ties.

PAGE 8OPERATOR’S MANUAL 1182026 REV 2

GFS SERIES TUBE FRYERS INSTALLATION

Step 4: Check Clearances and Ventilation

Select a firm, level location for your Southbend fryer. Leave clearance, whenever possible, so that access
from the rear is possible to permit cleaning. If the unit is to be set on non-combustible flooring, such as a
concrete slab, 3 inches minimum toe room must be provided to prevent restriction of the air opening in the
bottom of the unit.

! WARNING

There must be adequate clearance between fryer(s) and construction. Clearance must also be
provided in front for servicing and for operation.

Minimum Clearances:

From Combustible Construction From Non-Combustible Construction
Sides 7" 0"
Rear 7" 0"

ALL GFS SERIES FRYERS SHALL BE INSTALLED WITH AT LEAST A 16 INCH SPACE BETWEEN
THE FRYER AND SURFACE FLAMES FROM ADJACENT EQUIPMENT.

No additional side and rear clearance is required for service as the fryer is serviceable from the front.

INSTALLATION

! WARNING

Improper ventilation can result in personal injury or death. Ventilation that fails to properly remove flue
products can cause headaches, drowsiness, nausea, or could result in death.

All units must be installed in such a manner that the flow of combustion and ventilation air is not
obstructed. Provisions for adequate air supply must also be provided. Do NOT obstruct the bottom
front of the unit, as combustion air enters through this area. Be sure to inspect and clean the
ventilation system according to the ventilation equipment manufacturer’s instructions.

NOTICE

Proper ventilation is the owner’s responsibility. Any problem due to improper ventilation will not be
covered by the warranty.

Due to the variety of problems that can be caused by outside weather conditions, venting by canopies or wall
fans is preferred over any type of direct venting. It is recommended that a canopy extend 6" past the
appliance and the bottom edge be located 6'6" from the floor. Filters should be installed at an angle of 45° or
more from the horizontal. This position prevents dripping of grease and facilitates collecting the run-off
grease in a drip pan, unusually installed with a filter. A strong exhaust fan tends to create a vacuum in the
room and may interfere with burner performance or may extinguish pilot flames. Fresh air openings
approximately equal to the fan area will relieve such a vacuum. In case of unsatisfactory performance on
any appliance, check the appliance with the exhaust fan in the “OFF” position. Do this only long enough to
check equipment performance, then turn hood back on and let it run to remove any exhaust that may have
accumulated during the test.

The exhaust fan should be installed at least 2 feet above the vent opening at the top of the fryer.

This unit is not intended to be connected directly to an outside flue.

OPERATOR’S MANUAL 1182026 REV 2PAGE 9

INSTALLATION GFS SERIES TUBE FRYERS

Step 5: Gas Connection

A 3/4" male NPT line for the gas connection is located near the lower left rear corner of the fryer (see
illustration on page 7). The serial plate (located inside the front door of the fryer) indicates the type of gas the
unit is equipped to burn (natural gas or propane). The fryer should be connected ONLY to the type of gas for
which it is equipped.

A millivoltage circuit diagram is located inside the front door of the fryer.

All Southbend equipment is adjusted at the factory; however, pilot height should be checked at installation
and adjusted, if necessary (see page 22).

For orifice sizes and pressure regulator settings, see the chart on page 5. If the fryer is being installed at over
2,000 feet altitude and that information was not specified when ordered, contact the appropriate authorized
Southbend Service Representative or the Southbend Service Department. Failure to install with proper
orifice sizing will result in poor performance and may void the warranty.

INSTALLATION

If applicable, the vent line from the gas appliance pressure regulator shall be installed to the outdoors in
accordance with local codes or, in the absence of local codes, with the National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI

Z223.1, Natural Gas Installation Code, CAN/CGA-B149.1, or the Propane Installation Code, CAN/CGA­B149.2, as applicable.

An adequate gas supply is imperative. Undersized or low pressure lines will restrict the volume of gas
necessary for satisfactory performance. A combination gas valve and pressure regulator, which is provided
with each unit, is set to maintain a 4" W.C. manifold pressure for natural gas or 10.0" W.C. manifold pressure
for propane gas. However, to maintain these conditions the pressure on the supply line, when all units are
operating simultaneously, should not drop below 7" W.C. for natural gas or 11" W.C. for propane gas.
Fluctuations of more than 25% on natural gas or 10% on propane gas will create problems and affect burner
operating characteristics. A 1/8" tap to measure the manifold pressure is located on the combination gas
valve, which is on the burner manifold located directly below the burners inside the cabinet.

Purge the supply line to clean out dust, dirt, or other foreign matter before connecting the line to the unit.

It is recommended that an individual manual shutoff valve be installed in the gas supply line to the unit.

Use pipe joint compound that is suitable for use with both natural and LP gas on all threaded connections.

! CAUTION

ALL PIPE JOINTS AND CONNECTIONS MUST BE TESTED THOROUGHLY FOR GAS LEAKS.
USE ONLY SOAPY WATER FOR TESTING ON ALL GASES. NEVER USE AN OPEN FLAME TO
CHECK FOR GAS LEAKS. ALL CONNECTIONS MUST BE CHECKED FOR LEAKS AFTER THE
UNIT HAS BEEN PUT INTO OPERATION. TEST PRESSURE SHOULD NOT EXCEED 14" W.C.

! CAUTION

THIS APPLIANCE AND ITS INDIVIDUAL COMBINATION GAS VALVE MUST BE DISCONNECTED
FROM THE GAS SUPPLY PIPING SYSTEM DURING ANY PRESSURE TESTING OF THAT
SYSTEM AT TEST PRESSURES IN EXCESS OF 1/2 PSIG (3.45 kPa).

The appliance must be isolated from the gas supply piping system by closing its individual manual
shutoff valve during any pressure testing of the gas supply piping system at test pressures equal to or
less than 1/2 psi (3.45 kPa).

Connect the gas supply directly to the 3/4" male NPT connector located near the lower left rear corner of the
fryer. When tightening the supply pipe, be sure to hold the mating connector extending from the unit securely
with a wrench. This will prevent any damage or distortion to the internal piping and controls of the unit.

After connecting the gas supply, check again that the fryer is level. Use a long spirit level four ways; across
the front and rear of the frypot, and along each edge.

PAGE 10 OPERATOR’S MANUAL 1182026 REV 2

GFS SERIES TUBE FRYERS INSTALLATION

! CAUTION

IF YOU SMELL GAS DURING THE LIGHTING PROCEDURE, IMMEDIATELY SHUT OFF THE GAS
SUPPLY UNTIL THE LEAK HAS BEEN CORRECTED.

INSTALLATION

OPERATOR’S MANUAL 1182026 REV 2PAGE 11

OPERATION GFS SERIES TUBE FRYERS

OPERATION

NOTICE

These procedures must be followed by qualified personnel or warranty will be voided.

All Southbend GFS Series Tube Fryers are immersion tube fryers. This is the most efficient method of
transmitting heat into the oil. The tubes are actually large heat exchangers. Each tube is heated by a burner
at its front that propels its flame and heat into the tube, toward the rear, where it is vented into a flue box.
The combined heat transfer area of the tubes is much greater than the other types using element coils or
under-fired pots. Consequently, heat transfer per square inch is lower, as is the temperature, but because of
the increased surface area, immersion tube fryers transfer more heat into the oil. The lower temperature of
the heating surface prevents scorching and carbonization of the oil. Higher heat transfer rate gives faster
recovery between loads.

Another advantage of immersion tube fryers is the cold zone. As oil is heated it passes between and over the
tubes and rises into the frying zone, where it imparts heat into the product. After giving up heat, it descends
to the cooler zone below the tubes. Food particles and crumbs are dropped and trapped in the cold zone as
the oil awaits to be recirculated. The cold zone concept helps keep the oil circulating and clean of debris.

OPERATION

! WARNING

BURN HAZARD

Contact with hot oil will cause severe burns. Always use caution. Oil at 200°F is more dangerous than
boiling water.

! CAUTION

NEVER OPERATE THE FRYER WITHOUT SUFFICIENT OIL TO COVER THE TUBES.

Lighting

! CAUTION

IF YOU SMELL GAS DURING THE LIGHTING PROCEDURE, IMMEDIATELY SHUT OFF THE GAS
SUPPLY UNTIL THE LEAK HAS BEEN CORRECTED.

Open the burner compartment door and do the following:

1. Turn thermostat to “OFF” (lowest position).

2. Press down the knob of the combination gas
valve, turn it counterclockwise to the “PILOT”
position, and continue to press the knob down.

PAGE 12 OPERATOR’S MANUAL 1182026 REV 2