Block Heaters

[Charliebrn]

Anyone put a block heater on their tractor? I'm considering one for my BX. I know that there are different types, and would like to know the advantages/disadvantages of them, as well as costs. The winters here are pretty cold, though I do store my baby in a shed that is unheated. It's not unusual to go down to 10-15F....

 

[pcmem]

Charliebrn,

The BX block heater is a screw-in type that replaces a plug in the right side of the engine as you are sitting on the tractor. You can get one from your dealer for about $50 or check the autoparts stores for one. They usually have the frost plug style in stock but can order the screw-in style. The local ag supply store may have them in stock as they are very common anywhere it snows.

Stay warm,
Michael

 

[Boondox]

I have one in my L3010, but never use it. Even at minus 30 that trusty Kubota fires right up. Come to think of it, I never had trouble starting the old B1750 in bitter cold either.

Are the BXs harder to start in cold..? If not, save your money.

Pete

www.GatewayToVermont.com

 

[Knight9]

I have a block heater in my B2410. Screw in type. Had no choice in the matter. Dealer<font color=red>s</font color=red> all indicated that they do not send tractors out of the shop without a BH. Seems like pretty cheap insurance to ensure smooth tractor starts while treating your tractor with a little TLC.

Kevin

 

[Timd]

I have a block heater on my 2910 and plan on using it in
even mild winter weather for one reason: faster warmups.
Plugged in block heater == less hours on hourmeter

Timd

 

[JimMorrissey]

Pete,

That's good to hear. I was worried about starting the BX when it's -20.......although it doesn't snow much when it's -20 or -30 below zero

 

[JimMorrissey]

pcmem,

I suspect you have to drain the oil and pound the plug out or in? How is the plug removed...maybe it's screwed it. Did your dealer install it? Please tell me more.

Thanks, Jim

 

[looch]

I too am thinking of getting a block heater. I know it's no trouble to start the tractor - more for reducing wear and tear.
Has anyone heard of the magnetic type? Apparently (I've never seen one) you just slap it on the oil pan and plug it in.

 

[Boondox]

You've got that right, Jim! There's no dry like a minus thirty dry!

Pete

www.GatewayToVermont.com

 

[JJT]

When it drops under 0, I use a pair of 500 watt magnetic heaters. Leave them on overnight. I'm replacing the antifreeze shortly and will most likely put an in line heater in the lower radiator hose. I've never had a problem starting the Kubota, down to -30. The hydraulics are sluggish but it starts right up.

Any thoughts on the in-line heater vs the casting plug type of block heater?