Engine Block Heater Charger

[way0utwest]

I have a Branson, 42hp diesel tractor with an engine block heater. However in the place where I'd like to store the tractor, there isn't power available. I was thinking that perhaps I could use a few solar power panels to provide enough power to heat the engine block in the morning/early afternoon. My wife tends to need the tractor after 1, so in the Denver area, most days we would get enough sun to provide power.

My question is if anyone knows how much power (VA) I might need to provide for an engine block heater to work effectively over 3-4 hours?

 

[CobyRupert]

I once wonder this too:

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/john-deere-owning-operating/300126-typical-block-heater-wattage-amps.html?highlight=

 

[BigBoyToys]

I have the Kubota block heater in my tractor and believe it rated at around 400W.
Cheaper to get a little generator like this...900 Peak/700 Running Watts, 2 HP (63cc) 2 Cycle Gas Generator EPA/CARB . With a 20% coupon you're only talking a $100. There's no sensitive electronics involved so the output should be clean enough for the heater.

Don't need a lot of run time as the heater only needs to be plugged in for 30-60 minutes depending on the temps.

 

[George2615]

You would need something like this set up to use solar power and an inverter to plug your block heater into.

Complete Grid Tie Solar System 300W 400W 500W 600W 1kW Solar Panel w Inverter | eBay

A 12V solar panel alone would work to keep the battery topped off.

 

[CobyRupert]

Deleted

 

[BigBoyToys]

Bottom line is how much do you want to invest in this adventure???

 

[MFWD]

Hello,
Can you run an extension cord out to the place you want to store the tractor ????


MFWD

 

[Egon]

As stated, how much do you want to spend for solar as it will be expensive. Again, as mentioned, a small generator would be much much cheaper.

A solar battery charger would/should maintain the battery.

Consider parking near a power supply and put a tarp over the tractor if you are worried about protection.

 

[Ford850]

Do you really need the heater to start it? I agree a heater helps when it's below 10 degrees, but a fully charged battery would probably be enough. If it were me, I would get a good solar battery tender/charger and leave that attached. It would keep the battery in peak condition and give quick starts all the time. And would be much less involved than trying to heat the block with solar.

 

[PILOON]

Most block heaters are in the 200-400 watt category.
Block heaters only come in AC 110 v so an inverter plus batteries and solar panels would be needed.
Then you'd need a timer as well and no snow to obstruct the panels from sunlight.

Denver I believe gets lots of snow and enjoys rather cold conditions.

That kind of wattage would want a solar installation that would cost more that running buried wire to the location.

I think your best choice is parking closer to electric power and or long extension cords.
Sure, anything is possible but not always practical.

How about 1KW generator, electric start on a timer or remote. (but then in cold spells it also won't start unless heated)
Sorry, no easy solution. Garaged or extension cords are about the only reliable dependable and practical solutions.

One contractor chap I know would actually tote a portable genset in his pickup in order to start his 12wheel dump truck when he needed it last winter.
He would sit in the PU with coffee and newspaper while the the dumper preheated.

In my case I use extensions and a remote wireless switch to preheat about 1-2 hrs B4 tractoring.