It (flameout) only happened to me once during the 3 years I had my L'il Tex. My conclusion was ash build-up in the pot. I only used to do a thorough clean-out after each 20 lb bag of pellets.
Post the flameout, I don't recall having an other perhaps due to more frequent pot clean-outs, especially in smoke mode.
The 3 speed controller in first & 2nd is timed on/off. I don't remember the exact #'s.. If for whatever reason the off time was extended( there are no adjustments) it could allow the flame to burn out before
receiving more pellets.
Air flow. If the fan was dirty, the blower motor slowed down due to gummed up bushings or there was a restriction in the air passageway, that could also cause a flameout, AS WELL AS reduce the high
temperature.
There is always a reason. Finding it can be challenging.