engine block heater for CK20 HST

[jimb1724]

Hello All.....
it's been a while since my last post, but i still check in from time to time for all of your helpful hints and ideas....

it's getting to be cold weather season here in NH and i was wondering if anyone had any luck with an engine block heater that would work on the ck20...... i picked up a magnetic one made by zerostart, but there is no room in the engine compartment to attach the unit on the top or side and the frame blocks the bottom......

thanks for any ideas.....
happy holidays to all........
jim

 

[Warner Reed]

I had the same concern about cold starts in sub freezing temperatures. I inquired with the dealer in my area, Batcheldwr Sales of Lebanon ME, and he ordered a couple block heaters that were alleged to fit the knockout on the CK20, but the cylinders were too close to allow the unit to be inserted. The solution they came up with is a 4 x 5 inch electrical pad that epoxies to he bottom of the oil pan and heats the oil instead of the water jacket. The temperature here hasn’t dropped below 19F yet, but there is a noticeable improvement in the engine starting. I use a block heater in other equipment and believe the block heater is more efficient and quicker, but two hours with the electric pad works for me.
There are several different companies on the internet that offer similar products, but the unit that Batchelder sold me is made by Five Star Manufacturing and is called a KAT’S Heater. My unit puts out 150 watts and is model GEP24150. Hope this helps

 

[Egon]

Think In-line Heaters.

 

[IslandTractor]

Think In-line Heaters.

Pray tell, what is an "in-line" heater?

 

[depratt_equip]

You could also use a lower radiator hose heater, we install quite a few of these on all kinds of tractors. THey work well.

 

[Egon]

In line heater:

http://kimhotstart.com/kimhotstart/uploads/documents/products/cb_cl_%20models.pdf

 

[JeffandTamara]

On the In Line Heaters....How much does the heater restrict the coolant flow?
From all the pictures I see how they can fit in the Rad hose, but none showed the Inside diameter...I'm sure there has to be some reduction in diameter...Is it enough to cause concern...Apparently not...

 

[George2615]

I've been using an in line lower hose heater for 2 winters on my tractor and have used them on trucks before also. I haven't seen any difference with or without as far as flow goes. The coolant flows fairly slow anyway even with the thermostat opened all the way. On my tractor I use the KAT's model 14500. Its 600 watt and for 1 1/4" hose.

 

[jimb1724]

Thanks all for the input....

my dealer mentioned the in line heater but didn't think there was enough room in the small ck20 engine compartment.....

the pad idea is something to look at.....