The best solution would be to install a block heater in one of the "freeze
out" plugs. This would put the heat right where it is needed. A synthetic
Diesel engine oil like the Mobil Delvac 1 or Rotella-T 5w-40 will also help
it get going. Make sure the fuel is treated to prevent it from gelling or
dilute it with some kerosene to keep it liquid. 

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
John Anderson
Sent: Friday, January 27, 2012 2:40 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Coolant bleeding and radiator hose heater question (NVC)

So since as vanagon drivers we all do know about bleeding odd systems, I
could use some thoughts (by pmail is fine) from smart folks.� My little
Bobcat 443B is getting long in the tooth powerplant wise (a Kubota 3
cylinder diesel.)�� The end result�to�this is, that warm it still starts
fine, but under 30F it is a bear, under 10F impossible.� Bobcat in their
infinite wisdom blocked any possiblity of installing the intended block
heater when they installed this in the Bobcat compared to a Kubota tractor
or marine application.��2 years ago I siliconed on a 500W pad to the block,
and for�1 season it helped to about 10F, but we have been having a long
subzero snap this year, and this is what I plow with.� With big wind blown
drifts, I've neglected keeping up because to start it I have to run an
electric heater under a heavy sleeping bag for about 6 hours at the moment.
�
So I started thinking alternatives, dipstick heater, etc, then sat there
wondering why I hadn't thought about using a "lower" radiator hose heater.�
Thing is that the Bobcat is a bit odd in that both radiator hoses basically
exit their respective locations (pump and thermo port) make hard 90's then
go straight up as the radiator is mounted horizontally about 2 feet above
the engine.� So I don't think I'd have any issue with bleeding or air
pockets, but I'm wondering if it would heat much as the lowest location I
could install it�where the "lower" hose straightens out is probably actually
at about the level of the upper hose leaving the thermostat flange.� I don't
know how these really work (if they do) I presume in a sort of heat rises
manner, and if it won't gain me much I don't want to mess with it.�
Basically all the coolant in the block us well below where I could install
it though all of the radiator is of course above it.� No real way to
conveniently do a tank style (pumped) heater unfortunately, as no heater of
course, and it would be even more of a PITA to install T's to get a pump
type heater in.
�
Any opinions greatly appreciated.
�
TIA
John