Winter is coming. Alternative block heater

Scott & Heather · October 13, 2019, 07:45:40 AM

Our first bus had a block heater. It was wonderful. Our newest coach doesn't because it was a Texas coach. We miss it. Someday I'll get around to installing one. But I have to say, I was in a jam once a couple years ago and I needed to start the bus when it was -15°F....and this worked.

Better be sure you have a CO detector in the bedroom first though lol! Happy wintering y'all.

Gary Hatt - Publisher BCM · October 13, 2019, 08:02:46 AM

Not exactly a recommended procedure but if it works.

I think you should invest in a block heater.

Gary

sledhead · October 13, 2019, 12:02:33 PM

I 2nd the block heater or a magnetic kat heater or something like that

dave

Sebulba · October 13, 2019, 12:40:05 PM

What about a tank type coolant heater something like this:

https://www.etrailer.com/Vehicle-Heaters/Kats-Heaters/KH13150.html

We would always put these on our diesel tractors. I even put one on a Mercedes diesel when we lived in Minnesota.

Seb

Scott & Heather · October 13, 2019, 12:56:02 PM

When I install a heater, it will be the OEM 8v92 heater. They work well.

chessie4905 · October 13, 2019, 01:00:34 PM

Come on...get it done now! It's not like they cost that much.

Raymond smith · October 13, 2019, 01:25:18 PM

I like your idea. Would work if you get in a jam. In canada we use quick couplers and hoses to warm up machines in the bush

Gary Hatt - Publisher BCM · October 14, 2019, 10:04:44 AM

Charcoal in a pan works well too. Just be sure to let it burn down to hot coals before sliding the pan under your bus. Also, monitor it closely to be sure there is no dripping fuel or other flammables around. Also, if it is windy outside, you should block the wind. We have done this in the snow in the northeast, but if there is no snow on the ground or the ground is dry, I would find another solution. Also, if you possess no common sense, don't even think about this.

Lin · October 14, 2019, 12:28:54 PM

It seems that it is a better option to install a block heater than to have a quiver of options of what to do when you don't have one.

buswarrior · October 14, 2019, 12:58:09 PM

Back-up plans for when the block heater wires burn through because someone didn't maintain them...

Nothing like winter conditions to ignite natural selection?

Happy coaching!
Buswarrior

Scott & Heather · October 14, 2019, 01:08:25 PM

A salamander heater ducted to the oil pan will do it too. Ask me how I know?

buswarrior · October 14, 2019, 01:51:06 PM

And the false prophets all fainted when he says:

"And you can always use the starting fluid..."

LOVE SPRAY fixes it all.

Disclaimer, blah blah blah

#unwindyerpanties #heretic #losthismind #oldschool #realbusnutsuseether

Happy coaching!
Buswarrior

chessie4905 · October 14, 2019, 04:18:46 PM

Ether won't work if the oil is so thick that it barely turns over.

buswarrior · October 14, 2019, 05:08:53 PM

Quote from: chessie4905 on October 14, 2019, 04:18:46 PM
Ether won't work if the oil is so thick that it barely turns over.

Quote from: buswarrior on October 14, 2019, 01:51:06 PM
Disclaimer, blah blah blah

That is covered in the fine print in the 3rd "blah"

Which busnut who needs any of this advice is going to have their oil that thick?

Happy coaching!
Buswarrior

Sebulba · October 15, 2019, 01:53:17 AM

I know someone who burnt down their milk truck and shop this way.

Be verrry careful. Common sense is helpful too.

Seb

Quote from: Gary Hatt - Publisher

BCM link=topic=34370.msg394324#msg394324 date=1571072684
Charcoal in a pan works well too. Just be sure to let it burn down to hot coals before sliding the pan under your bus. Also, monitor it closely to be sure there is no dripping fuel or other flammables around. Also, if it is windy outside, you should block the wind. We have done this in the snow in the northeast, but if there is no snow on the ground or the ground is dry, I would find another solution. Also, if you possess no common sense, don't even think about this.