Just recently bought a '85 300TD wagon....starts right up on mild mornings, but on colder days it is a bit slower to get going. I wanted to take it up into the mountains on some winter trips....will an engine block heater help me to get easier AM starts?

If so, any recommendations? I think I'm interested in the coolant circulation type so I can adapt it to also heat the fuel lines for biodiesel on cold days. I've seen these two:

ZeroStart: http://www.jcwhitney.com/webapp/wcs...catalogId=10101

Diesel Giant: http://dieselgiant.com/diesel_parts...%20Heater%20Kit

Any comments are appreciated. -Harv

 

I installed a 1500 watt Zero Start on my SD. Bought the correct fitting to screw into the block drain. Ran the hose straight across to the heater, which I mounted on the frame, and then ran the discharge up and around the back of the engine and installed the supplied "y" pipe per instructions in the hose leading back to the head.

Read the instructions.

The hose run leading away from the heater must always be headed up or horizontal. No loops or downward slope. The heat generated rises; a downward slope blocks heat transfer. I've read quite a few posts in another forum where this type of heater does not work well. I suspect those that complain can't read and follow instructions.

I hook it up to an Intermatic 40 amp timer and set the time for about 1.25 hours before I leave for work. Works great, and I have heat as soon as I start the car. Even in -5f temperature.

 

very nice boat you got there

 

Thanks sleepwalker!