2520 Block Heater install ???

farmeratheart · Dec 10, 2014

I would like to install a block heater in my used JD2520. I purchased the heater this fall from the local dealer (Part#AR87167).

When I looked at the block there were a couple of possibilities for installation. On the left side of the tractor (point of reference is driver痴 seat) there are 2 possibles ,,,
1) nearer the fuel tank

Or 2) nearer the radiator ,,,

When I did this for my JD2305, I punched out a freeze plug like seen in number#1. An adapter kit (Part# AM134805) bolted to the block effectively extending the block wall to allow for heater installation. I don稚 see any such place to use this adapter on this engine.
Should the plug in #2 be removed and the heater threaded here? Do I use Teflon tape to seal the threads of the brass plug to the iron block or would Loctite be better? Unfortunately, the local dealer hasn稚 been much help so far.

Any help from those who have been here before would be appreciated.

Thanks.

Frank

kevinwak · Dec 10, 2014

It should install in the threaded plug nearer the front. You use a 1/2" ratchet to drive it out. There is no need for the adaptor, like on the 2305. I think I used Teflon tape...

farmeratheart · Dec 12, 2014

Well the heater is installed. Many thanks to Lost in Wisconsin for pointing me to a thread on another forum to answer the rest of my questions. The plug ID'ed as #2 in my post above came out using the square end of a 1/2" breaker bar. I used several shots of penetrating oil over the last couple of days and a couple of strikes from a 2# hammer on the end of my extension and then with enough torque the plug broke free! I had the coolant level lowered by draining the radiator, but still lost some when the plug was removed. Wrapped some Teflon tape in the heater's threads and it easily started into the hole. I did not have the 1 3/8" or 35mm socket necessary to snug up the heater, but used a 70 year old open end wrench "head on" borrowed from a friend. Replaced the coolant and fired her up. No apparent leaks! Tomorrow morning will be the test when I plug her in for an hour and then go turn the key. Sorry that there aren't more pictures, but I usually forget the camera when in the "heat of battle"!!!

Frank

topstoy · Dec 20, 2014

Well this motivated me to install one on my 2520. I had been putting it off but decided to do it. After the sticker shock of purchasing this for $88 plus tax I couldn't wait to do it. The plug was really tight. Had to add a pipe to the end of my 1/2" breaker bar to get it loose but it did finally come. On the install, of course none of my open end adjustable wrenches were big enough. One was so very close, maybe a mm short. So I used channel locks and hoped that I could get it tight enough with them. After wrapping threads with Teflon tape, I managed to get the heater insstalled somewhat tight. I found that removing the alternator made the job so much easier and nothing to it to get the alternator off, highly recommend this, gives you so much more room. Also the mechanic at the local JD dealer recommend that you install it so that the element is vertical instead of horizontal. Put fresh antifreeze in it and tested it out. No leaks!