an idea for "plugging in" block heater

[emarsh]

I havent done this yet, but I was thinking of mounting a retractable "cord reel" somewhere under the front bumper so that I don't need an extension cord. You would have to cut off the existing reel cord "ends" and install the reverse add on cord caps. Cut off the male on the side of the reel and put a female to plug into the existing male of the block heater; then cut off the female at the end of the reel where you pull on it, and put a high quality MALE, since this would get all of the use.

What do ya think???

Hey, maybe I should sell these!

 

[Bigsaint]

I think it's cool idea, my only problem would be that I need about 100' of cord. That'd be a pretty big reel to try to hide. Also, from what I understand, it wouldn't be good to leave some line on the reel if it's plugged in, due to the temps. rising while it's still rolled up. Not sure on that one but I'd unspool it all the way to be safe.



Scott W.

 

[illflem]

Scott's right, you have to uncoil the cord all the way for continuous use. The self coiling cords work great not fully unwound for intermittent loads like a power tool though. I had a not fully unwound cord reel melt into one mass when used on a battery charger, not much of a load at all. Thank heavens for circuit breakers.