BX2230 Block Heater

[PTP1971]

I have recently acquired a BX2230 with 62 hrs.(2005). This is my first Kubota and I have been impressed so far. Its a bit smaller than my Ford backhoe but I no longer need a heavier pece of equipment. I have followed the discussions on installing a block heater and hope someone can give me some advice. I have a heater which goes in the lower hose. This morning I began the installtion and I am not quite sure which section of the hose would be best for installation. There is not much room anywhere and before I cut the hose I was wondering where other folks have installed theirs?
Thanks

 

[Matt_Jr]

Welcome to TBN. Sorry I can't answer your question, but would one that goes in the oil pan be better or easier? They even make magnetic ones that just stick on the bottom of the oil pan. I think they make one that goes in place of the dipstick too. Now that would be easy.

 

[PILOON]

As far as I know they only make 200 watt magnetic types and for diezel engines, that's not enough wattage.
I found that 500 watts seems to be the minimum.
The hose type is a good option as it heats the whole engine as does the frost plug style.
As to the dipstick type, I may be wrong but I'd think that it would kinda fry the oil and possibly degenerate the 'lubricity' value of your oil.

Just my 2 cents.

 

[Matt_Jr]

As far as I know they only make 200 watt magnetic types and for diezel engines, that's not enough wattage.
I found that 500 watts seems to be the minimum.
The hose type is a good option as it heats the whole engine as does the frost plug style.
As to the dipstick type, I may be wrong but I'd think that it would kinda fry the oil and possibly degenerate the 'lubricity' value of your oil.

Just my 2 cents.

Got a point there with the dipstick type. I don't know. As for the magnetic type, something is better than nothing. Isn't it? I myself would have put in a freeze plug type or figure a way out to put one in the lower hose. However I'm just typing out options here. Ideally the best way to do it would be the hose type and the magnetic type. One keeps the engine coolant warm, and the other keeps the oil warm. Here in Virginia I don't need either. My tractor has started even on the coldest days with 15 seconds of glow plug help. Maybe if the global warming crap goes away...