Block heater installation problems - BX2200

[JWE]

I went to install the block heater that I purchased last spring and a problem has surfaced. I had no problem getting the 17mm plug out of the block; installed the heater but it leaks around the threads. I have reinstalled it twice. I even used a different thread compound the last time.

Has anyone else had this problem?
Any suggestions on what I could do to stop the leak?
Is it possible that I have a deffective heater?

 

[ronjhall]

JWE
I used Loctite 567 Pipe Sealant on my 2910 with no problems. 577 will also work.
What type of sealant are you using?

 

[JWE]

I used reguler pipe joint compound that you would buy at Home Depot or Lowes. One tube was the grey stuff and the other tube was the white kind with teflon in it.

Where did you buy the Loctite sealent?

John

 

[frank_f15]

it is possible that the threads on the heater are not quite right, but i don't think so. try this use teflon tape 2 wraps around the threads then put your sealent on the threads, snug it up and see if that takes care of it, teflon pipe sealant tape can be purchased at any harware store.

 

[JWE]

Thanks Frank... I have plenty of teflon tape. Is teflon tape compatible with pipe joint compond?

John

 

[Junkman]

Hope that you don't have this problem....... my dealer told me that there is a recall on the block heaters...... apparently the factory authorized manufacturer made them with the incorrect threads and they don't screw into the block properly. They did a recall of all the block heaters and replaced them with heaters with the correct threads. If it were my machine, I would be calling the dealer on Monday morning and check the part number of the heater that you have and the correct heater part number. I checked my invoice and the part number that they installed for my BX 22 last week is..... 70000-73274. Since the heater is made of brass, I doubt that you would have stripped the threads in the block. If it turns out that you got one of the defective heaters, then I suggest that you ask the dealer to install the replacement at no charge to you.... after all, it is their mistake not to contact you and let you know of the problem heater. If damage was done, I don't know where you stand then. Until then, you could always remove the heater and put the plug back in.......

 

[ronjhall]

JWE
I purchased the Loctite Thread Sealant at a local Auto Parts Store.

 

[JWE]

Thanks junkman, I will check that out with the dealer on Monday. I have done a lot of plumbing in my day and I have never had a problem with pipe joint compound sealing properly matched thread.

At this point, I am pretty frustrated with the entire deal. Each time I drain the rad I get antifreeze all over the tractor frame and floor. My BX does not have a petcock to drain the rad; it just has a plug at the bottom making it hard to drain without creating a mess. Even though I completely drain the rad, a fair amount still comes out of the block.

John

 

[JWE]

Junkman... My heater has the same part number as yours. I will still check it out with the dealer.

John

 

[ronjhall]

John
Junkman’s response may be the correct answer.

I have the same part number as yours. I have had it for a couple of years. Just got around to putting it in recently. /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif

Hope your dealer is able to help.