Oil heater

[stook]

Hey guys I'm installing an oil pan heater for those really cold morn. Just wondering should I put it on the oil tank or the oil pan? Or does it matter.

 

[Mooseman]

The object is to heat the oil to make it easier to pump through the engine and crank faster. There is minimal oil at the bottom of the engine and the oil pump does not pick up the oil from there. I would put the heater on the tank close to the bottom where the pump gets its oil.

 

[Sevey]

How will you fasten it to the oil tank. Can't use a magnet, it's cast aluminum.
Ms

 

[Yannie]

Wouldn't a coolant heater be a better choice?

 

[04nightfire]

How will you fasten it to the oil tank. Can't use a magnet, it's cast aluminum.
Ms

There are ones that are a peel and stick and will adhere very well

 

[stook]

I have the peel and stick type . Ill clean it with thinner then stick it on

 

[Sevey]

Will it stay on permanantly or will it peel off?

Also, anyone try a battery blanket wrapped around the oil tank.
Does it get hot enough to warm the oil?
MS

 

[poor farmer/logger]

Definatley on the oil tank if you're going to. I've never needed a need for it though. I run full synthetic oil and have never had a problem starting mine. I try not to start it at -35 and below. I don't ride it as much in the colder weather so it's not as big of a deal for me but it will start without much trouble at those cold temps. I would probably put in a coolant heater instead of a oil pan heater as it will warm up the motor quicker. The oil doesn't get that thick in the cold.

 

[Mooseman]

As extra insurance that the warmer will stay stuck to the oil tank, use zip ties around the tank and warmer.

I too haven't needed one, having started mine down to -25c (-13f). Full synth mobil1 0w40.