Diesel Heater Conversion.

D

drbridge

Member
Joined
Jun 25, 2014
Messages
234
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11
C Dory Year
2004
C Dory Model
22 Cruiser
Vessel Name
Susan Marie
Our wallas diesel stove is 22 years old and still working, but not getting as hot as it used to. We only use it for heating and it never was the best heater. I am thinking about replacing it with a diesel parking heater. I am wondering what size people have been using in their C-Dorys. I am thinking the 2KW models would be enough heat for our C-dory 22 cruiser and easier to install than the bigger 5KW and 8KW units.

What size have others been installing in their C-Dorys and how have they worked for You?

Also, the thru hull fitting for the Wallas exhaust is the right size for these heaters and since it is already there would be convenient to use. Any reasons why I should or shouldn't use the existing thru hull.

Thanks
 
I use a 4KW heater in my uninsulated two car garage. When it is 40deg F out it can raise the inside temp to 60deg F. Since these heaters usually don't shut when they reach the set temp (just throttle down), I expect that a 4KW heater in a 22 is overkill. It might depend on where you do most of your boating though.
I am considering adding a 2KW heater to my 22, but I'm not sure how often I'd actually use it. Installing one would be a bit of a pain and may not be worth it for me.
 
I put a 5KW in my 22 cruiser and was happy with my choice. I don’t like to use things near there max setting, especially if there is fire danger and if confine (like in a boat), so the 5KW allowed me to keep it in low to medium setting most of the time. I do go out on the shoulder season when it will go bellow freezing often, your situation might be different. I did research that several year ago but if I remember correctly, the 5KW is more fuel efficient for the same heat output. Just a few things for you to look into/consider.
 
I removed the Wallas and installed a Webasto Airtop 2000, it was a fairly easy install in the same space under the counter as the Wallas. The heat output is great. I did have to increase the size of the exhaust vent out the side of the boat.
 
If I was in Alaska, even SE, I would want at least 5,000 BTU in the heater. You can warm the cabin up some--but when in that water which is just a little above freezing, the 2000 BTU is just not enough to warm the boat up. Our experience was only in the late spring to mid fall--For the cost differential, you can run it at 2000 BTU, and still have reserve when it really. gets cold, rather than running the heater full out.
 
All you need to do is take a 3/32" drill bit and drill out the tube that the diesel comes into the burn chamber. It tends to get a little carbon plugging it. As soon as its clear it will get hot again. Takes about 30 minutes. You can measure the surface of the stove with an infrared thermometer when it's working right should be 1000 to 1200 degrees F.
 
jkidd said:
All you need to do is take a 3/32" drill bit and drill out the tube that the diesel comes into the burn chamber. It tends to get a little carbon plugging it. As soon as its clear it will get hot again. Takes about 30 minutes. You can measure the surface of the stove with an infrared thermometer when it's working right should be 1000 to 1200 degrees F.
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Thanks, I will give it a try and it may help in the short term. I think in the long run the wallas will have to go. It has lasted longer than most at 22 years old.
 
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