FB;
We've discussed this subject before so you might search the topics.
Basically the problem with those types of heaters is twofold--
1. the 12V heaters don't put out a lot of heat without drawing lots of current from your battery/alternator
2. AC line voltage cartridge heaters put out much more heat but the watt density overheats the oil that is in direct contact with the oil.
A better approach is to use a pad heater like those made by Minco or Watlow Electric. These spread the heat over a wide area of the oil tank wall and do not damage the oil while heating the contents. They are made in various voltages, wattages, and sizes. Some are silicone runner and others are Kapton film insulated.
Regards, Neil Tucson, AZ
Neil,
I remember your comments from prior to Speed Week 2014.
The mag heaters are 120v, run off an aux generator while we are in line. It was a cobbled together system that provided some heat where there was none before. Chris will need to do something else for the next go round because the "new" engine is all alloy.
Since the heaters were NOT in direct contact with the fluids, there was no danger of localized overheating.
The next permutation will probably be 120v Wattlow pads, or the like, still using the 120v generator. But with a better plug'n'run requirement.
Thanks for the thoughts.
Briz, sorry for the thread hi-jack. I'll buy you a cold one if we meet up on the Salt in 2016. And a cold one for you too Neil.
F/B