PreHeating C-85

[8337]

Thanks for the responses guys! Sounds like if it doesn’t get below 30 it’s not much to worry about and it’s rarely below 30 here in Louisiana. I’m just gonna keep the 100 watt Bulb pointed at oil below about 40.

[6643]

it’s rarely below 30 here in Louisiana. I’m just gonna keep the 100 watt Bulb pointed at oil below about 40.

I would say "don't bother". If anything, you'll cause more problems than you'll solve. If you warm the oil but not the engine case, moisture will evaporate from the oil and condense on the top of the case (where the cam $haft is...) Use Phillips 20w-50 or Shell 15w-50 (I think Exxon has one, too) And you can safely start it at anything above 20 degrees.

[8337]

I’ve heard the twin hornet aircraft engine heater from Sporty’s works well and is “pilot proof” but it is expensive $329

[8214]

It does not get overly cold where I live either but I have a tiny space electric space heater that fits perfectly in the cowl on the engine mount. Add a timer and ensure the circuit breaker is functioning and she is nice and warm when I get to the airport.

[8322]

I've now had a chance to test my electric preheater, 275 watt on the oil sump, I cover cowl good with blankets, I will sew a custom cover soon, but for now I use one fleece fitted sheet as the elastics really help to fit it securely, I pop two old pillows on top of cowl (more insulation in your attic than in your walls at home I figured) and cover with a big old comforter. I put fleece pillow cases on prop securing with rubber band till custom one is made too. After being on all night I could feel the heat as I took the blankets off, cylinders were warm to the touch and I had oil temp by the time I taxied from my hanger to airport building. So if you have electricity an EZ heat unit is less than $200, I think for that price I would do it even if it was only a few times a year I needed it... If it put off an overhaul even 20 hours it would be worth it...