Thanks for the info, esp. the links from Jim!

We're in Wisconsin, so sub-zero temps are common. I really like this coolant heater in my diesel: http://www.partsplaceinc.com/products/product-detail.aspx?sku=3710

In 2-3 hours it warms the entire block quite noticeably, something I doubt can be said of any of the oil heaters. Usually fires right up with minimal smoke.

For a waterboxer, I like the idea of an inline coolant heater, assuming it could be installed in the engine or rear heater loops, since it would warm the entire engine. Seems like the ones installed near the radiator would do little or nothing to warm the engine ...

If Van Cafe still carries the block heater shown in the Samba thread, I cannot find it on their website. Might have to call.

FWIW, I've read of high failure (burnout) rates for the dipstick heaters, though I have no experience with them.

Thanks again!

Jeff

On Sunday, December 22, 2013 3:14 PM, "mcneely4@cox.net" <mcneely4@cox.net> wrote:
 
I have seen engine heaters that are resistance type coils that replace the oil dip stick.� I have no idea how well they work, or where to get them.

Back in the day, my father used to drop a 150W lamp into the engine compartment, then cover the engine and lamp with a blanket.

I once had a Toyota Coralla that was hard to start on zero mornings.� I installed an inline type heater like you described, and it worked really well.

Where are you, and how cold are you talking about?

mcneely

---- Jeffrey Lee <jeffrey_lee_aqua@YAHOO.COM> wrote: 
> My 83 diesel I4 has 3 core plugs, one of which I've replaced with a 120v block heater for use in cold temps, and which helps immensely.
> 
> A friend with a waterboxer Vanagon (not sure if it's a 1.9 or 2.1L) asked if one could be installed in his engine but I don't know if these engines have core plugs. A bit of online shopping turned up nothing but inline coolant heaters which are installed waaay up near the radiator, and hot-plate-style contact heaters which must be somehow adhered to the underside of the oil pan.
> 
> Anyone know of a simpler, more effective solution?
> 
> Jeff

--
David McNeely