Diesel Heaters For Winter Tent Camping - Upgrades and Modifications

Рет қаралды 16,781

6 ай бұрын

What’s up guys in today’s video I’ll be sharing with you my top modifications I think will help improve the experience you have with your Chinese diesel heater adventure. I’ll also show you my set up and and share with you everything I’ve learned in the last couple of years using these heaters.
This unit has a new “Level mode” that allows the heater to be adjusted based on a level of heat you choose, by toggling the keys on the pad. This control mode automatically adjusts all the internal components, ie fan, bump speed, altitude, taking the guesswork out and the need to manually change settings in engineering mode. Like on the older heaters. Coupled with the Bluetooth app and this new mode of control, there’s no more need for thermostatic control and extension of the cable,
But It’s still a good idea though. 🍻
0:01 Hcalory Heater tent Setup
0:40 tent camping for beginners
2:00 Diesel or Kerosene
2:53 New Level Mode
3:36 Battery cable mod
5:10 Inline fuse mod
6:19 Sound damping fuel pump
7:19 Fuel filter mod
8:49 Heater assembly
9:45 Heater control overview
15:03 Heater full load amp draw results
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Vevor Diesel heater: amzn.to/47jCMuJ
100AH 12v battery: amzn.to/3Qne71D
Tire Tailgate table: amzn.to/47gYNKI
Storage box: amzn.to/46guHX3
Carbon monoxide detector: amzn.to/49hkb4x
Diesel fuel tank: amzn.to/3tVumv8
20a cigarette adapter: amzn.to/3u3oKzf
15a In-line fuese: amzn.to/3u4q84z
3/20g 10ft extension cable: amzn.to/49lzRDK
Solder sticks: amzn.to/3FM8O6R
Fuel filter: amzn.to/40wP4hm
3” Y splitter: amzn.to/3sqaUX5
3” Duct coupling: 75mm a.co/d/70l7vlk
3” wing clamps: amzn.to/3SsE6aH
Exhaust wing clamps: amzn.to/46Xjb3D
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DISCLAIMER
Due to the factors out of control by ATEM OFFROAD, we cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information ATEM OFFROAD assumes no liability or responsibility for property damages or injuries incurred as a result of any information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk . ATEM OFFROAD recommends safe practices when working on vehicles and or with tools seen in this video, any injury damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools equipment or from the information contained in this video
Is the sole responsibility of the user and not ATEM OFFROAD. Be Safe
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#Hcalorydieselheater #wintertentcamping #dieselheaterupgrades

Пікірлер: 102

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

This unit has a new “Level mode” that allows the heater to be adjusted based on a level of heat you choose, by toggling the keys on the pad. This control mode automatically adjusts all the internal components, ie fan, bump speed, altitude, taking the guesswork out and the need to manually change settings in engineering mode. Like on the older heaters. Coupled with the Bluetooth app and this new mode of control, there’s no more need for thermostatic control and extension of the cable, But It’s still a good idea though. 🍻 0:01 Hcalory Heater tent Setup 0:40 tent camping for beginners 2:00 Diesel or Kerosene 2:53 New Level Mode 3:36 Battery cable mod 5:10 Inline fuse mod 6:19 Sound damping fuel pump 7:19 Fuel filter mod 8:49 Heater assembly 9:45 Heater control overview 15:03 Heater full load amp results

@PainterD54 4 ай бұрын

Great idea for heating both tents! FYI, never let your battery sit with less than 50% charge for any length of time. Get it back on a charger as soon as you draw it down to anymore than 50% charge or you will be shortening the life of the battery.

@ATEMOFFROAD 4 ай бұрын

Good point , I try and charge it as soon as I get it home from my trips. Thanks for watching 🍻

@retnav92 6 ай бұрын

Finally a video showing someone heating two separate spaces with one heater. Just rec'd my diesel heater (Vevor brand) and am getting things set up for chilly nights come mid/late March camping next season. Will be heating a 5x9 Hiker Trailer and a 23zero rtt mounted on the trailer. I like the tip of extending the display/control module. 👍

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

Sounds like an awesome setup, the vevor heaters are pretty good IMO. I’ll probably end up taking mine apart for a good cleaning , I’m starting to hear some inconsistencies in the exhaust during peak heating. Thanks for watching 🍻

@HoldYourSeahorses 6 ай бұрын

⁠@@ATEMOFFROADhow much would you actually disassemble to clean?

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

@@HoldYourSeahorses split the case in half and brush out with solvent, clean glow plug, and fuel delivery port. There is a screen that get build up as well. A good once over is necessary about every 2k hours. 🍻

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

@@HoldYourSeahorses these heaters can accumulate carbon build up .

@shamsshams20261 5 ай бұрын

Impressive all the modifications and the one that surprises me is to be useful for two spaces/tents. Thank you for sharing!

@ATEMOFFROAD 5 ай бұрын

Absolutely, we will definitely need it for family camping with two vehicles. 🍻

@jamesgreco1827 4 ай бұрын

Really useful video, thank you 👍

@ATEMOFFROAD 4 ай бұрын

Thanks for watching 🍻

@ohnoadventures 6 ай бұрын

Very good video 👍

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

Thank you 🍻

@bucket1249 4 ай бұрын

Bought one last year and played with it. I'm going to weld up a better aluminum case and make a return hose, even if I dont stuff it in the tent it will be drawing fresh air in farther away from the exhaust. Maybe make 4-inch adapters so I can get some better-quality hose than what's available in the 3 inch.

@michaelrider4234 4 ай бұрын

Great video, I just purchased the HCalory all in one 8 KW heater and am going to use it while camping out in the Mojave Desert in my van this winter. I really like your mods. Your video was very helpful. Thanks

@ATEMOFFROAD 4 ай бұрын

It’s a great choice for a diesel heater, wish you safe and warm travels. Thanks for watching 🍻

@JeepinDownUnder 6 ай бұрын

Love the funky intro music!

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

Haha I thought it would go with the funky edit haha 😂 thanks bro 🍻

@sodasandwich 3 ай бұрын

thanks for the info! im getting ready to try a diesel heater. ive stumbled on some blogs that say those PVC coated hoses can be toxic because there not rated for the temperature these heaters put out....from what i can tell they are saying dryer venting hose is different temps than diesel heater output. also see complaints that the inner foil on these pvc hoses can puncture easily. some recommend going from 3 inch to 4 inch hose coming out of these diesel heaters so they dont overheat.

@ATEMOFFROAD 3 ай бұрын

There is no need to go from 3” to 4 unless the duct you want is in 4” I’ve used this machine for many hours with this pcv duct and I’m just fine. The aluminum is thin it’s possible it can be easily punctured. In this video I use aluminum duct this one (amzn.to/48gFu4w) and a splitter to heat two tent if I don’t use a splitter I use a coupler to the 3” heat rated flex ducting. ( amzn.to/48ao0GT) to reach my tent that way the pvc is further away from the heat of the heater. 🍻

@stephenhall5421 6 ай бұрын

Yep! I ordered using your coupon code (saved $25). About to extend my control panel - great timing on this video!

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

Awesome it’s good to hear y’all take advantage of that code. The cable extension is a must if you can, regardless of the Bluetooth IMO. Thanks for watching🍻

@stephenhall5421 6 ай бұрын

@@ATEMOFFROAD I’m not having consistent luck with the Bluetooth at the moment

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

@@stephenhall5421 are you on android or apple? I use apple and so far every time I’ve opened the app it’s works just have to wait a second to load. What’s going on?

@stephenhall5421 6 ай бұрын

@@ATEMOFFROAD Apple phone. I got the app to work once. I’ve deleted the app and tried reloading. Sometimes I can get it to turn on via the app; but can not adjust or turn off. It reads the temp and voltage - so it seems to be communicating

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

@@stephenhall5421 do you happen to have any other Bluetooth devices in the proximity, ie vehicle stereo, headset, speaker. Another device could have priority over the other and kick the heater off the app.

@shiremotorsport1351 5 ай бұрын

Hi just been looking through your videos and there very informative I’m just wondering as to when you have the toolbox heater outside what do you do with it if it starts to rain cheers

@TACTICALNOMAD 6 ай бұрын

Nice mods! I have performed a few additional mods to my all-in-one heater for when I'm using it outdoors: 1. I use insulated duct. Insulated ducting keeps the air flowing through the duct warmer, which helps the heater run far more efficiently. 2. I added a GAOHOU Hive Electric 12V Silicone Heater Mat to the side of the fuel tank. It only draws 12w; along with Diesel Power anti-gel poured into the fuel, both ensure my fuel does not gel.

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

Those are great ideas, I may need that mat for my lithium battery if it gets too cold. I usually have lamp oil on me so that would be my additive if fuel starts to gell. Do you happen to have a link to your duct? Thank you 🍻

@HoldYourSeahorses 6 ай бұрын

In cold climates during the winter gas stations switch to anti gelled diesel in their pumps.

@TACTICALNOMAD 6 ай бұрын

@@HoldYourSeahorses, gas station fuel does NOT have sufficient anti-gel. If you use only what they add your fuel WILL gel. I’ve seen it happen to far too many inexperienced semi drivers, let alone diesel truck drivers. Last winter alone I helped 3 Sprinter van drivers with gelled fuel by adding PS Diesel 9-1-1 to re-liquify their gelled gas station fuel that supposedly had anti-gel mixed in. In winter, you had better add anti-gel - I only use Power Service anti-gel & fuel system conditioner, and I also keep a bottle of their Diesel 9-1-1 to re-liquify already gelled diesel, and I’ve had to help quite a few rookie semi drivers who did not add anti-gel because they thought they knew better, even after being told by their company to add anti-gel. Don’t believe the hype!

@campoutwestus 6 ай бұрын

I'll be paying attention to how the new heater works for you. I also have been having difficulty finding the ideal vent hose. The cardboard and foil one that my heater came with was too fragile, the ridgid aluminum one fragile and hard to pack. It thought the aluminum with plastic or rubber was the ticket, but the outer layer began to melt and smell. 🙄

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

Maybe try using the cardboard aluminum one for directly over the heater port , keep it short maybe 1-1.5 ft and then couple the plastic one to that way it’s not directly over the hottest part. that’s what I’m going to do since I haven’t smelled any burning the way I set it up in the video. Any thoughts?

@campoutwestus 6 ай бұрын

@@ATEMOFFROAD ours was actually melting at the top end, where the heat came out into the tent, but we did run it all night.

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

@@campoutwestus oh wow I’ve never had that happen as I usually just keep ours on lowest setting throughout the night. there are some flexible all aluminum ones at Home Depot I may go down and check those out after work I’ll keep y’all updated on how it goes. 🍻

@TACTICALNOMAD 6 ай бұрын

I use insulated duct. Insulated ducting keeps the air flowing through the duct warmer, which helps the heater run far more efficiently.

@Anthonyz19 5 ай бұрын

Finally got the heater like you said they would be back in stock. I'm trying to do what you've done to your heater. I can't get the one screw off to remove the tank. Must have loctite on the bolt. If I just remove the heater can I get to the fuel line to install a filter on there.

@ATEMOFFROAD 5 ай бұрын

I don’t remember any locktite being in there, it will be harder to add a filter with out removing the tank it’s a pretty tight fit to get it in there properly.

@daviddover4563 6 ай бұрын

Love the lid chain and controller extension mods. Still struggling with the app setup.

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

Thank you , What’s not working for you? Apple ? Android?

@daviddover4563 6 ай бұрын

Android.

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

@@daviddover4563 I haven’t used with android yet what’s going on?

@daviddover4563 6 ай бұрын

@@ATEMOFFROAD app won't connect to Bluetooth. My phone find s it but app heater will not. The Bluetooth icon shows on the controller.

@facts1752 6 ай бұрын

I’ve been trying to extend the length on my diesel heater control module forever!!, thank you for the knowledge, mine has 4 wires, so i would just get the low voltage oxygen free wire correct?

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

Yes, there’s a 4 wire cable in the listing if you follow the link, but any 20g/4 wire cable should work. Thanks for watching 🍻

@bbohm212 5 ай бұрын

I like the mods you have done. Is there a concern with the air intake? The old heater you have has an air filter and the new one doesn't appear to have a filter, can this be added? Thanks

@ATEMOFFROAD 5 ай бұрын

Looking back there is an air filter on the air inlet it’s under the unit, you can see it in this video>>KING Of Affordable Diesel Heaters | The HCALORY - SS2 8KW Air Heater | This Is The ONE kzfaq.info/get/bejne/jbtjlrWS0N_Om6M.html

@user-yl2gu5ey4h 4 ай бұрын

Did you reinstall the split-lock washers when you screwed the gas tank back on? I couldn't find a way to slip those back in after I unscrewed the tank to install a fuel filter.

@ATEMOFFROAD 3 ай бұрын

It seemed like I put everything back in place, I can’t recall. 🍻

@crankshaft007 6 ай бұрын

Some great ideas, something to google or think about is removing the soft green fuel hose. The flexible heat transfer hose is that drier rated? Having a hard time finding proper duct hose rated properly for the heat rating. Any update on the exhaust elbow you have mounted on the heater ? Just interested in the proximity of the elbow and the box, as the exhaust pipe gets to extreme temperature Thanks I went, to the Amazon listing for the flexible duct, and it concerns me it makes no mention of certification for driers or anything about drier vent. As well I couldn’t find any mention of heat temperature rating. Being that this is the hose bringing in fresh air, it concerns me anything from China with no real certification. Any ways I purchased proper North American certified ducting problem was it’s smaller diameter

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

The flexible duct is rated for drier and indoor heating / AC. I’ve had no issues with heat in that area of the exhaust, during my next camping trip I will up date on that. So far it’s a great improvement to the old style exhaust where you have to bend the tube to make it right, my vevor exhaust tube has already cracked and split there , this 90 should eliminate that all together. I am also concerned, what temperatures are you seeing on your end? As the jacket is outside of the aluminum? Also keep in mind the material that surrounds the heat exchanger is also plastic , I would think you would want something of that exact material or totally aluminum if possible. Curious to what you find. Thanks for watching 🍻

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

@PainterD54 3 ай бұрын

I tried that plastic vent hose you're using and it melted where it was clamped on to the unit, so keep an eye on it. Mine must burn alot hotter than yours?

@ATEMOFFROAD 3 ай бұрын

I keep my heater on high for no longer than 10 minutes it usually on low for long periods of time. I no longer put it directly on the heaters outlet I use the rigid aluminum duct and then put the flex on the end of that.

@jaronfelix4778 6 ай бұрын

Thank you for your videos! It helped me buy the Hcalory. I seem to be getting code E05 (overheat protection) when using a 3” duct hose. Do you get the E05 code?

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

I use a 3” duct but never had this fault. What is the temperature outside you are using this heater and how are you using it? Shop , tent ?

@jaronfelix4778 6 ай бұрын

It’s about 45 degrees F outside. I am using it to heat up an RTT.

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

@@jaronfelix4778 maybe try and keep the hose short as Possible without any bends ? Is your heater on lowest setting when is overheats?

@mikevollmar1021 5 ай бұрын

Another KZfaqr (Ozark Overland Adventures) said you need to use an adaptor and go from 3" to 4" immediately after exiting the heat exchanger.

@ATEMOFFROAD 5 ай бұрын

@@mikevollmar1021 I’ve always run 3” and never had any problems. 🍻🤷‍♂️

@chineseempanada420 Ай бұрын

How did you change it to Fahrenheit?

@tomlauritzen9522 4 ай бұрын

I'm looking at your setup on the table. When out actually camping how do you protect the heater and battery from the elements? Wind/rain/snow is a real problem if not protected...... what do you do?

@ATEMOFFROAD 4 ай бұрын

I use awnings that protect my gear from rain and snow 🍻 kzfaq.info/get/bejne/l72IiqaitKiVZ5c.htmlsi=v_hQxcS0YRYhC537

@tomlauritzen9522 3 ай бұрын

I ordered all the parts you've listed for improvements........ I'm having trouble getting the fuel filter to fit under the power coupling and not kink the fuel line. I just ordered a smaller fuel filter and hope that solves the problem. It's just so tight between the pump and the fuel tank. The power plug in gets in the way and the wires don't like being pushed around without loosing up.

@ATEMOFFROAD 3 ай бұрын

@@tomlauritzen9522 I had that same problem it’s a tight fit that’s for sure one trick is to remove the two screws that secure the power cable connector to the enclosure. Once fitted than reconnect wires and put your screws back on. there are decent fuel filter at local auto parts stores for small engines can check on of those out . 🍻

@stevend9124 6 ай бұрын

I haven't use the heater yet work home I have a 10 x 14 shed slash shop and I'm trying to work into both

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

This heater would definitely help raise the temperature in the shop for you. 🍻

@MHancock537 4 ай бұрын

Do you have a link to the 90 degree bend exhaust ?? Looked on A and can't seem to find it

@ATEMOFFROAD 4 ай бұрын

That 90 bend is specially made for that heater. I can’t find it either, but I will ask hcalory for a part number and get back to you. 🍻

@julienmira4256 3 ай бұрын

@@ATEMOFFROAD Hi. Any luck getting that part number? I too am interested. Thanks in advance.

@Gibbowr80 4 ай бұрын

How do I changed from C to F on the app? Thank you

@ATEMOFFROAD 4 ай бұрын

I have yet to figure it out on the app, so far just the controller

@garyCauser Ай бұрын

Truck stop diesel has winter additive....works great to way below zero...

@byronlee6486 6 ай бұрын

Nice video. Thanks for the links. Where did you get the 90° exhaust elbow?

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

That came with the hcalory heater , currently sold out, but new stock is coming in the beginning of December.

@robinrandall4133 6 ай бұрын

Is it okay to use if it’s raining?? Like if it’s sitting out in the rain?

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

I would drill a couple drain holes on the bottom case to drain any water and cover the inlet. Vents so water can’t get inside the fan area just to be cautious 🍻

@kevinholland4156 6 ай бұрын

At what altitude do the Chinese heaters carbon up?

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

5k ft , the claim is this one automatically adjusts up to 6km or 19ft it would be a good field test and tear down vidoe after a few hundred hours of use.

@Popcornbeetle 6 ай бұрын

Great video but that hose is pvc coated and releases toxic fumes when heated up.

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

Not the inside this is what it is on Amazon 3 Inch Flexible Ducting Hose 16.5 feet, Grey Aluminum Ducting Dryer Vent Hose with 2 Screw Clamps for Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning

@Popcornbeetle 6 ай бұрын

@@ATEMOFFROAD good luck with that. The temps on the outside of the duct get quite hot especially at the heater outlet. That’s hydrogen chloride gas for ya. I had this duct for 10 min and realized the fumes would not go away and you can smell it from inside the tent.

@Popcornbeetle 6 ай бұрын

I’m not a fan of the more rigid duct that comes with these heaters…they are like the German heater ones. Not as flexible but they are proven without toxic fumes. Not insulated either but those cheap flexible Chinese ones aren’t insulted beyond that thin pvc coating on the outside.

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

@@Popcornbeetle any links to the 3” duct you’d recommend? I’ve never had any smell or odor in the tent from the heater. I had a solid aluminum one that was ridged, but I stopped using it as it was difficult to put away inside side my little storage box. Thanks 🍻

@Popcornbeetle 6 ай бұрын

@@ATEMOFFROADunfortunately i reverted to using 2 of the more rigid black ext alum int ones. I use an elbow that is plastic so I don’t feel great about it but I use it to neglect the last 3ft into the tent, so little less heat. I see others using 4 to 3 adapters then using household ducting. I might go that route as it’s more flexible and easily can do the Y adapter to two tents.

@overlandsubaruinternationa2378 4 ай бұрын

How you handle the rain at night ?

@ATEMOFFROAD 4 ай бұрын

New video coming out soon talking about how I deal with rain. Essentially the heater goes inside the jeep.

@CJLane-62 6 ай бұрын

Snow camping will kill that lithium battery quickly, unless you have a way to protect it and heat it slightly! 🤔

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

Good point, I believe -10 it will stop discharging, I will keep insulated and inside vehicle.

@surfingcuriositywaves4046 4 ай бұрын

The manufacturer chose a potentially unsafe design when they used an input connector that is designed for 120 volt alternating current devices. The danger is that an unsophisticated user who doesn't understand the voltages and dangers of 120v compared to 12v. If someone loses the 12v dongle that you fabricated, they might see the shape of the receptacle and use a standard 120v connecting wire plugged into mains power, which could energize the frame with 120v. I suggest converting the manufacturer's receptacle to an xt30 or similar connector that is designed for low voltage devices. The unit will be fine in your posession, as you know the proper usage. But if that ever falls into the hands of someone else, the potential for injury or death is there in the design.

@ATEMOFFROAD 4 ай бұрын

Yes you are absolutely correct on that and this has been passed on to the manufacturer for revision. It’s out of my hands at this point. Just for thought , in theory the frame is isolated from the heater, but not the exhaust. Would it more likely be that the control board would take a hit and the 120v will just wait? The user will then decide if it’s on fire or he realizes he just damaged the machine. The failure will be quick especially if the user has the device plugged into a GFCI protected circuit. If there is no GFCI protection on the circuit the 12v mains relay will not energize because the coil shorts from the hit of the 120vac or the low current control circuit is damaged thus no control of the 12v heavy current mains to start the heater.

@chrisurfer83 6 ай бұрын

Ok, everyone keeps saying kerosene is cheaper than diesel... Here in VA kerosene is $1.50 more per gallon than diesel..m

@ATEMOFFROAD 6 ай бұрын

I think that’s it’s a misconception, if you google kerosene near me it takes you straight to the local gas station where they sell diesel not Kerosene. Lol so you maybe correct diesel is far cheaper in my area. 🍻

@MyVanMonty 6 ай бұрын

Do you need to mix kerosene with diesel in colder temps (under 32°f) for this heater to run properly? Or will it ruin the heater?

@nigbodavis2649 Ай бұрын

Carbon monoxide detector - that won't work for diesel as they produce hardly any CO . Only two options for diesel fuel - Nitrogen Dioxide but detectors are expensive for commercial use , circa £ 300 . The only other option to test if exhaust gases are leaking into heated air supply which is to monitor for any rise in CO2. Diesel exhaust circa 7% CO2 compared to 0.04 % in general air. so esp if you are recirculating heated air then CO2 will start to rise , although limited to doing a test run without anybody in there to add CO2 by breathing