Need help installing block heater in BX

[KYKub]

I tried unsuccessfully to install a block heater in my BX1860. Ordered this part (70000-73595)



Removed muffler (muffler crosses front of engine, very close to engine block), took out the freeze plug at front of engine and installed the heater. Easy-peasy, I thought, no problems! Then I went to put the muffler back on and it won't fit because the heater extends too far out of the freeze plug. Not even close. Ugh!

I see all kinds of information about seemingly every BX EXCEPT the 1860. Anybody have one with a block heater? I'd love to know the location where it should be installed and the part number (if different).

I have a WSM but don't see anything related to block heaters.

The BX fires right up, even in single-digit temperatures (cold for around here) but I know cold starts are particularly hard on these diesel engines.

Thanks for any help.

 

[s219]

Can you modify the muffler to fit? Maybe either a spacer where it mounts to the exhaust manifold, or a modification to the piping? Or whack a dent in the muffler to fit around the heater? I am not familiar with the muffler/mounting on that tractor to get more specific. But mufflers are pretty low-tech, and it's probably easier to modify that without ill consequences. Either that, or run without muffler and get some earplugs!

 

[davesl708]

Have you looked for a port on the side of the block? My BX has a plug on the center of the block on the right side that looks like a large allen wrench plug. It is for the installation of block heaters.

 

[KYKub]

Thanks s219 and daves1708. There is only 3/8" or so between the muffler and the front freeze plug. I can't see any way to move or re-route the muffler. I'll reserve denting the muffler with a hammer as a last resort.

I see threaded ports on other BXs, but I don't think I have one. (D722 engine). I see other freeze plugs but don't know if there is room behind them for a heater element. The only recommended location for a heater I can find is the front top freeze plug (where my muffler obstructs its installation).

There is a threaded port on the lower thermostat housing. It seems like it would be too high to effectively heat the engine block. Anybody know if that is accurate? Anybody know the intended purpose of the threaded port on the thermostat housing?

Thanks!

 

[HeLa]

I see you reference a Messick's image. Did you reach out to them for guidance on selecting the block heater?

I was also uncertain re: fitment and extensive searching/reading only made things less clear. The folks at Messick's were very familiar with the the various heaters and fitments and sold me the right part.

Probably not much help to you (part no. 70000-00771), but my install is documented HERE.

 

[Ford850]

Start with post 35 in this old thread http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/...ck-heater-installation-problems-bx2200-4.html At first they say there is only a lower radiator heater available. But then there is a link to a Kubota document in there too, with this part number 77700-00298 for the BX1850, BX1860. It shows the part number you listed above (70000-73595) is for a BX24, BX25. I think you got the wrong one.

 

[oldnslo]

I was told the only option on my BX1850 was the lower radiator hose. Even it was a tight fit.

 

[100 td]

Maybe this one
Search Results | Messick's

 

[KYKub]

Thanks, guys, for your help. HeLa, I called Messicks today and they were helpful. They said that the 70000-00298 part (lower hose heater) was the only heater recommended for the BX1860. Your install thread was very good and I wonder if the same thing would work on my machine. I see a freeze plug at about the same location - easily accessible, but I don't know what's behind it. It looks like your heater is designed so that it only extends a short distance into the engine block. I'd sure prefer to use that type of heater.

Ford850, I think you're right that I got the wrong heater. It fits just fine, unless you are one of those crazy types that wants a muffler! The link you provided was helpful, too. From what I can gather the 77700-00298 part number is no longer valid. When I talked with the Messicks guy today he said the only option is a hose heater.

oldnslo and 100 td, the part you reference (100 td) is the one the only recommended one for the BX1860.

How does yours work, oldnslo? Did you install it yourself?

Maybe I am overthinking this, but I really would prefer to have a block heater. I am tempted to attempt an install like HeLa; I guess the worst that could happen is I have to re-install a freeze plug if I see there's no room behind it. Well, there's always a chance I put a hole in whatever is behind the plug, but I'd be careful.

Thanks again for your helpful replies. I appreciate your help.

 

[HeLa]

HeLa, I called Messicks today and they were helpful. They said that the 70000-00298 part (lower hose heater) was the only heater recommended for the BX1860. Your install thread was very good and I wonder if the same thing would work on my machine. I see a freeze plug at about the same location - easily accessible, but I don't know what's behind it. It looks like your heater is designed so that it only extends a short distance into the engine block. I'd sure prefer to use that type of heater.

i wish i had taken more photos in the process :-/

the element on my heater is in fact very short. additionally, the space behind the freeze plug is limited in depth and width (the element MUST be oriented vertically to clear).

 

[oldnslo]

Yes I installed the lower heater hose unit and it worked fine. You just have to be very precise on where you cut the lower radiator hose to do the installation.

 

[KYKub]

I ordered the lower radiator hose unit. Things do look pretty tight under there. oldnslo, you said to be "very precise" on where to cut. Is there a particular place to cut the hose, or do you just try to eyeball it so you have the most room on either side once you insert the heater? Do you remember if you removed a small section of hose or just made the cut and slipped in the heater?

 

[oldnslo]

If & I repeat IF I remember correctly the kit from Kubota had pretty good instructions. What I did was read the instructions and then held the heater up next to hose and marked the hose where it should be cut. You have to remove a short section of hose to install this. Also the direction the power cord is rotated or it will rub on the plastic shroud

 

[KYKub]

Appreciate all the good responses. If I am able I'll get to it this weekend and post a few pics.

 

[wrooster]

Appreciate all the good responses. If I am able I'll get to it this weekend and post a few pics.

Any progress/pics? I'm interested in doing the same with my BX1860...


Thanks,
wrooster

 

[KYKub]

Hi wrooster. I forgot I promised an update on this thread. I started a new thread detailing my installation here: http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/...ng/352379-radiator-hose-heater-kubota-bx.html

FWIW, I originally ordered this heater from Amazon: Amazon.com: Kat's (16400) 1" Lower Radiator Heater Hose: Automotive

I thought it would be the same as the Kubota product but after getting it, convinced myself it was physically larger. Given that the space is so tight, I ordered one through the Kubota dealer. Mistake! Paid more than double and it is exactly the same! Special order so couldn't be returned. It's not even a "Kubota" part - it's Zerostart, an aftermarket like Kat's. Returned my Amazon heater, but would never have ordered from the dealer if I knew I would receive the same thing (for more than twice the price!). Good luck.

 

[ru499]

I use a magnetic heater. Just stick it to the oil pan. Works great.