Block heater time vs. temp?

Newblue · Dec 1, 2005

Thanks for all the replies guys. I won't have to worry plugging in the block heater over night now. A cord reel that hangs over the tractor in the barn might be a good Christmas present from Mrs. Newblue!

djradz · Dec 1, 2005

For something in the range of $10-15 you can purchase an outdoor grade timer, capable of 15 amps. I used one on my 1 hp pool pump motor for over 10 years. Very nice yet very simple.

tractorpilot · Dec 1, 2005

I almost hate to muddy the water on this topic, because living in Wis I will probably end up with a heater. But from the aircooled engine world of airplanes, the concern with extended operation of a heater that only heats the crankcase, moisture is driven out of the oil in the crankcase and condenses in the unheated cylinders - potential for corrosion. For the plane, I run the heater for an hour, for the tractor, I will probably do the same, with a timer.

MikeD74T · Dec 2, 2005

Above I commented on my use of block heaters. At my work we have 2 Cummins 6 cyl diesel fire pumps. Each has a continuous block heater that maintains 120 F, in spite of being in a heated building. We have a minimum start temp of 100 F for non-emergency starts. With a 20 year maintenance history it is documented that cold starts increased engine wear. But, keep in mind these engines start at full load and go immediately to 1800 rpm.

MikePA · Dec 2, 2005

<font color="blue">of a heater that only heats the crankcase </font>
The standard NH block heater does not heat the crankcase, it heats the coolant.

JSUnlimited · Dec 2, 2005

I have a TC24DA w/dealer installed block heater,

Below freezing, I plug it and walk away. Always ready to go whenever I need it.

djradz · Dec 5, 2005

I would think you are contributing to the breakdown of the coolant prematurely and possibly other heat-related deterioration by having it always plugged in. ... maybe I'm wrong? /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif