Engine Block Heater Guide
If you live in an area that sees particularly cold winters and you plan to use your tractor during those months, you may want to invest in an engine block heater. They heat the engine block, oil pan, and/or cooling system to aide in cold weather starting. An additional benefit, if your tractor is equipped with heat and you're using a coolant heater, is that your cabin will blow hot air much quicker. First, let's discuss the different types of engine block heaters available to narrow down which one will work best for you.
Lower Radiator Hose Heater
A lower radiator hose heater is installed in the lower radiator hose to warm the coolant. The coolant slowly circulates through the system as it warms up due to the temperature difference.
Circulating Tank Heater
Circulating tank heaters are installed on opposite sides of the cooling system. It warms and pumps coolant through the system to ensure the whole block is warm.
Frost Plug Heater
A frost plug or freeze plug heater is installed in place of one of the frost plugs in the engine block. One of the engine's frost plugs is removed and the heater mounts in the hole. The heating element heats the coolant and keeps the engine warm.
Magnetic Heater
Magnetic engine block heaters use a strong magnet to keep itself mounted temporarily to the engine block or oil pan. Since these heaters are easily removable, they are great if you have multiple pieces of equipment you'd like to use it on.
Silicone Pad Heater
Silicone pad heaters use adhesive to stick to your engine block or oil pan. These are more permanent than a magnetic heater, so you can leave them on your equipment if you'd like.
Dipstick Heater
Dipstick heaters are installed in place of your standard oil dipstick. It has an electric heating element on the end that rests in the oil. These types of heaters are relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
When You Should Use an Engine Block Heater
As temperatures fall below freezing, you may want to consider installing an engine block heater. Around 20° Fahrenheit or -7° Celsius is where you'll start to find an engine block heater helpful. Once temperatures hit 0° Fahrenheit or -18° Celsius, engine block heaters become a necessity.
