Diagnosis
A persistent burning electrical smell from your Cuisinart Hurricane CBJ-550 motor base indicates the motor is severely overheating or that internal electrical insulation is breaking down. This is typically caused by excessive mechanical load or an internal electrical fault, creating a serious fire and shock hazard.
How to Fix It
Unplug the blender immediately and do not plug it in again. Allow it to cool completely. First, disassemble the jar from the base and inspect the drive coupler (the plastic or metal piece that connects the blade assembly to the motor shaft). Ensure it rotates freely by hand and isn't cracked or stripped. If the coupler is seized or damaged, replace it. Also, check that the blade assembly spins without obstruction and that you are not overfilling the jar with very hard or frozen items, which can overload the motor.
If That Didn't Work
If the coupler and blade assembly are free and clear, the problem is internal to the motor base. The motor's windings may be shorting, or a capacitor may have failed. These components are not user-serviceable. For the CBJ-550 model, official repair is often not cost-effective. Your safest course of action is to discontinue use permanently and replace the entire appliance.
Heads Up
Never ignore a burning smell from any electrical appliance. Continuing to use your blender in this state significantly risks an electrical fire, melting internal parts, or causing the motor to burn out completely. Do not attempt to open the sealed motor housing yourself.