Remote/Mobile Power Source for Engine Block Heater ??

[Katmandu]

A device like this would be GREAT to use when it's COLD outside and you are away from a 115V source to plug in to!

Maybe one could be fabricated by using a remote battery pack and an power inverter. The battery pack would have to be separate from the trucks main batteries as to not draw them down so the truck could still be started.

Anyone heard of such a device that you could take with you to plug in your block heater ??

 

[Katmandu]

Here's an interesting thread on this Topic.

Click the link below.


http://tinyurl.com/7g3s9

 

[Turbo1Ton]

Interesting idea but for ease of use I think I would just go with one of the 'Blue Heat' type heater deals that I have seen the banner for on this site. I mean that way you know you can warm the truck up unless you plumb run out of fuel.

 

[blacksheep4x4]

Interesting idea but for ease of use I think I would just go with one of the 'Blue Heat' type heater deals that I have seen the banner for on this site. I mean that way you know you can warm the truck up unless you plumb run out of fuel.

I agree you can't exactly use your block heater out in the woods.

 

[2-ND TIME]

Block heaters

Well I think I will stay with the small generator idea,that I use. I do like the idea of the inline heater with circ pump but extra things to go wrong with. Something I don't see here is people mentioning about battery warmers this is important when the temps go lower for battery voltage drops off when this happens so current goes up ( for starting any given load ). Just need a larger fuel tank for the gen but have that worked out. The generator is what I use for hunting season. Just have to move it further away it has syn oil as well. The other prob with batteries for this idea is if a vehicle is going to sit for some longer given time period it's voltge is going to be down.

 

[moparguy]

If one has to park on a parking lot, there are sometimes power outlets at the bottom of security light poles. Many times these are unlocked and a extension cord can plug right in. Don't ask how I know. LOL

 

[Cummins Pilot]

Running a block heater requires a lot of power. Even a good set of industrial sized batteries can't really keep up with a couple of hours powering a block heater. Going with a fuel burning heater like my Espar is the only way to go.



On a side note I have installed a second set of Optimas in the bed that run to an inverter to power two 100 watt oil pad heaters. They can only maintian good heat for about 1. 5-2 hours depending on the temp. Its all wired into a relay so when my Espar kicks on so does the oil pads. The draw back is that after startup all the trucks batts need to be brought back to full charge. This puts a big long load on the alternator. Everything comes with a price.