Webasto or Espar ?

[AZiegler]

Hi All, With winter just around the bend, I'm looking into a furnace for the Truck. I have heard of both the Espar and the Webasto brand but know very little about either. Does anyone have any experience, recommendations, or comments about one or the other system?



Dependability?

Installation ease or difficulti?

Price?

Performance?



These things come to mind first, but please expand if you wish. I'm also looking for information on the best place (cheapest) place to order from.



Thanks

 

[Slow Six]

I am on my 2nd Espar. The 1st one went with the old truck. Both units have been good. I had some electrical connector problems with this one but the dealer corrected them at no charge even though the warranty has expired. I had both units dealer installed. The installation depends a lot on the installers experience and capability. I had the last one installed at the distributor's shop where they seemed to know the tricks of the trade and minor alterations that improve the process. I think the Espar is a little more money but according to the Espar salesman the Espars are serviceable. According to him the Webastos were more of a throw away unit (maybe sales talk?) As far as performance the Espar really warms up the engine and cab even in minus 40 weather. I live in a cold climate and feel that the Espar is one of the best bombs I could do. It is also a wife's favorite as she likes getting into a warm truck.

 

[Cummins Pilot]

I have an Espar and couldn't be happier. The remote and timer are great.



I installed mine myself and its not that difficult. Though mine is not mounted in a normal position. I moved the pass battery to the drivers side and mounted the Espar in that location so that the coolant does not run very far to the engine block.



Best BOMB I've done thus far, it would be hard to improve on that.



I paid about 1250 all together for mine. Espar, 7 day timer and remote.

 

[johnrv4]

I've got a Webasto in my '97 that came out of my friend's '95. They are very serviceable- I've replaced the wick inside the unit and it's been working great. My heater was built in '88, and the parts are still available for it. Check Ebay regularly. I've seen a couple new Webasto TSL 17's go for $450 which is a smokin' deal.