New Tractor is here! - block heater question

[Jim in NH]

Thanks for the good words about Zetor ownership - very helpful; and Popeye...we're neighbors. I'm next door in New Boston - drive through Mont Vernon on my way to work everyday.

My new 4341 with cab and 102HL loader and HLA 8' snow plow were delivered last Thursday!

What a thrill. I've spent the last few days getting to know the new rig, running some new hoses to steer the snow plow from the cab, etc. Had to take the mud flaps off to clear my 3PH sandspreader.

I do have a few questions about the block heater for you smart folks...

I plugged-in the block heater for about 4 hrs the other morning, it was about 10 deg F out. When I came out to start-up, there was a hissing sound. Got concerned that I had over done it, and was hearing coolant boiling off. The Anti-freeze was at the min level in the expansion tank, so I brought it back up to the middle.

So...
1. What is the guidline for using the block heater? How long is it ok to run it? temp dependant?
2. Should it may noise?



Thanks,
Jim

 

[markku]

It makes a little voice when it is operating.

Depend about weather but 0.5 hours to 2 hours is usually normal pre-heating time. You can buy cheap timer to your electric plug and set it like a 0.5 hour heating and 0.5 hour break or something.

There is some equipments that keep engine warm all weather but dont heat it too much. Those pays about 40 to 60 euros and they will be connected to electricity plug. I dont availybility in your country (different voltages).

 

[lspringeradelphianet]

JIM - Small World! Here we are on this worldwide forum , and you are "just up the road " in the next town. Stop by some time and see my Zetor 6245 Monster . I have a snow plow on the front and a snow blower on the rear for the winter. You can also see it at:

http://www.farmphoto.com/photography/message.asp?mid=240522

I don't believe you can hurt anything by having the block heater on too long. But i just use mine for about an hour usually, but I have left it on for hours inadvertantly with no ill effects.

I'm right around the corner from Lamson Farm , on Cross Rd, 2nd house on right, top of little hill, red barn, about 1 mile from rt 13.

Popeye