BX2200 block heater on BX23 ?

Spudgunner · Jul 9, 2005

Hello,
I have a Kubota 70000-73274 engine block heater that I originally purchased for a BX2200. Well, the BX2200 got traded for a BX23 before I installed the heater. Will this block heater fit my BX23? My '23 is coming up on its 50-hour service and this would be a good time to install the heater if it'll fit.
Thanks!

Junkman · Jul 9, 2005

The original BX23's had the same engine as the BX22's. I don't know if this is still the case. Look on the right rear of th engine and see if there is a 1" threaded hole where the block heater will install. If there is, then you have the old style of engine. If not, you have the newer design engine and the heater will not fit it.

Spudgunner · Jul 9, 2005

Junkman,
Thanks for the info! Looks like I have the old style because there's a large, threaded plug at the location you mentioned. Looks like it takes a humongous allen wrench to remove the plug, but I'll let the dealership take care of that. Thanks again.

Lockport · Jul 9, 2005

I watched them install the block heater on my BX2230. They put an oil change pan underneath and then punched a hole in that plug. Then as the coolant slowy seeped out he used a big screwdriver to, what appeared to be, pop it out of the hole, the coolant cehind. Then they screwed in the heater and refilled the coolant.

I don't know if it the same engine as yours so don't punch a hole in the plug without verifying. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Spudgunner · Jul 9, 2005

I'm familiar with the type of freeze plug you mention as those exist on my engine also as visible from the left side; however, where my block heater screws-in wouldn't really be referred to as a freeze plug...it's a big threaded plug on the right side of the block that'd probably last way longer than the block would if the coolant froze solid. Maybe you have the newer block (?).

Lockport · Jul 9, 2005

Probably. It's a 2005. The plug was near the fornt of the block on the left side. The plug in hangs out the side of the hood just behind the front left wheel.

Junkman · Jul 9, 2005

Mine was installed before I got the tractor, however from past experience, the plugs are usually either 3/8" or 1/2" socket drive holes. Relatively easy to remove and screw in the new heater. If it is going into the selling dealer, he shouldn't even charge you for the installation, since most times they will install these for free just to make the deal. Just remember not to leave it plugged into the electrical outlet for more than a few hours. Long term heating will usually burn them out. 1 hour is usually enough to start the engine and have the block warm.

LarryG · Jul 9, 2005

I have a 2000 BX2200 and the plug is removed with a 17mm allen wrench. The block heater then threads into the hole. On My BX, the plug is on the right side of the tractor as you are sitting on it and the cord hangs behind the right front tire by the oil filter.

Tom_H · Jul 10, 2005

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( If not, you have the newer design engine and the heater will not fit it.)</font>

As always, JM is correct. For the newer engine there is a different heater available which fits in the radiator hose. Those who have it have reported favorable results.