BX1870-1 Block Heater

[Ramos]

Looking for a block heater for the BX1870-1. Local dealer tells me Kubota does not sell one for the block on this model. They do offer one for the lower radiator hose. Part number for it is 70000-00298 (previously 70000-00283). Do any of you smart folks know of an in-block heater that positively fits the BX1870-1? If not, how about the ID of the lower radiator hose part number K2581-85152. I searched it every way I could think of here but did not find anything particular to the 1870.

My BX started like a champ all of last Winter. I'd just like to make the cold starts as easy on it as possible moving forward.

 

[Delmar]

Hi Ramos. I have a BX1860. Engine is, I think, identical to your 1870. I, too, tried to find an in-block heater and was frustrated to be unable to find one. I used to have a different machine with the same D722 engine and it had a block heater in the front of the engine. I thought I "beat the Kubota experts" and switched it to my 1860 (in the same location at front of engine). Installed perfectly! ...until I went to reattach the muffler and the block heater was in the way.

I ended up removing the block heater and installing the lower radiator hose heater you referenced. It works well.

 

[Ramos]

Thank you for the information, Delmar. That's a bummer, thinking you had it licked almost to the end!

Been there a time or two, myself...

 

[Delmar]

Block heater is probably better, but only marginally. Hose heater is a pain to install, though! Working it tight quarters with short lengths of radiator hose.

For what it's worth, I ran the power cord through the "firewall" and let it rest on the battery. I have to take the front screen off to plug it in, but I only use it a few times a year so it's no big deal. If you use it often, you might consider installing a port.

 

[Ramos]

An in-block unit would be my first choice, also. However, looks like the inline hose type is what it is going to be. I am pretty sure Kubota is selling the Kat's 16400 and will order that through work as my discount cuts the cost to slightly less than half.

Again, thank you for the input!

 

[Bill15kv]

I have a subcompact also and below zero takes quite a bit of cranking even after a 1 minute light of the glow plugs.
Hows the inline heater working out?

 

[Lizlec]

I have a subcompact also and below zero takes quite a bit of cranking even after a 1 minute light of the glow plugs.
Hows the inline heater working out?

I do have the inline heater on my BX1870-1 and works just fine. Heve been able to fire it up as low as -28°C without issue. The only thing is since it's a bit less efficient than one directly in the block you may wan't let it heat a bit longer than you would usually. From my experience 2-3 hours is more than enough to heat up this little engine

 

[StephenB]

The dealer has a block heater for my BX1880 but I don't remember the part #
I did see it though.

 

[Ramos]

The dealer has a block heater for my BX1880 but I don't remember the part #
I did see it though.

Well, don't that just figure! My in-line heater is already installed, works quite well. Reckon at this point, I will just stay with what I have. If it ever quits working, I will see what is to be had at that time.

 

[Lizlec]

The dealer has a block heater for my BX1880 but I don't remember the part #
I did see it though.

With the new engine cover I'll guess they have changed the exhaust design and that the one that goes in the engine hole doesn't intefere anymore.

 

[84cj]

I installed a block heater on the front of my older BX1800, plenty of room. Must be a design change?

 

[drchris1978]

I also have a BX1870 and would like a block heater. Guess I'll have to stick with a radiator hose heater for these cold New England winters!