DIY Diesel Heater in a box: How-to
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- Опубликовано: 28 сен 2022
- Disclaimer: use these files/parts and/or build your own heater at your own risk.
Looking to buy the 3d parts kit directly? Support my Etsy store here:
etsy.me/3aN6M81
Thanks for checking out my video!
Instagram Channel for direct messages:
/ keeganbuilds
If you would like to pick up any of the parts used in this build they are available below. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
5KW Heater Kit - amzn.to/3ze4jjJ
80mm 12v computer fan - amzn.to/3DfllNy
2-pin Waterproof connectors - amzn.to/3wPFqI2
Apache 4800 case - amzn.to/3wH8LFS
24mm thru hull exhaust - amzn.to/3snYBFe
Webasto exhaust tubing (needed cut to length) - amzn.to/2OYvRnS
3" heat output tube (2 required) - www.ebay.com/itm/222227739256 (if sold out or overpriced use a 3" intake like this amzn.to/3VVIiie or like this amzn.to/3SSB1xZ )
Chainsaw fuel filter - amzn.to/3dIPYRj
Exhaust Sealant - amzn.to/2OWfV5x
Fiberglass exhaust wrap - amzn.to/3bD4yXM
bolts used (m4 and m3) - amzn.to/3S8ko1e
Nuts used (Nylock) - amzn.to/3S9jFg5
3" Ducting I use at camp (from heater up to tent) - amzn.to/3LJXtry
3D Printer used - amzn.to/3pNQ8wP 
Наука
Built this kit utilizing this video as a guide. The instructions were great, precise and easy to follow. I purchased his 3D printed parts and found them to be high quality that have been measured with precision and fit perfectly. You have to appreciate Keegan's attention to detail. You can buy a prebuilt heater for a cheaper price but you don't get the satisfaction that you built it! Thanks for the inspiration and guidance!
I appreciate the kind words! Thank you for supporting a small business and keeping this fun for me!
Where do you sell the kits??
keeganbuilds.etsy.com/listing/961303941/portable-diesel-heater-parts-3d-printed@@Jory-Forsberg
I would have moved the exhaust and intake to the other side. In its empty place, I would place a 50 ah lfp battery.
A true all in one diesel heater.
If you put the cable for the file line in from the output hole of the tank first, and fish it from the fill hole of the tank, then you can connect the fitting from the fill afterwards, and the the process should be much easier. Thanks for a nice video 🙏
Just finished this build yesterday, it’s a fantastic design. I do have a tip for the holesaw, if you run the drill in reverse after the pilot bit has gone through it will be more controllable.
great tip! Will employ right away!
I noticed that the plate that is listed on eBay is 450.00 seems crazy that it cost 3x of the heater itself. We’re
Did you find the mad flow sensor plate ?
@@the-bu3lb for sure! This eBay seller likes to spike the price when his inventory gets low. I put other options on there for you too
Just simply an amazing video with tons of details. I was going to put mine together this weekend but ow I’ll be ordering your kit, so after I receive the kit I’ll be ready. Thanks so much
Thanks Delbert! I appreciate the kind words and the business. Feel free to reach out during your build with any questions too :)
Very nice man...Attention to detail, craftsmanship....The best!!! If this would be made up and sold this way (in one piece)...you would have orders from all over the world!!! I'm from UK and it would sell good here!!!
I just finished making my 2kw, smaller box version. I spent lots of time on this to make it OCD pretty, it turned out to be a nice, sharp unit. I wish the gas tank was less bulky, but I couldn’t find better unless I made one out of aluminum.
I’m happy to say all the accessories fit still inside the box.
Parts came with updated plug outlet style trim as I had requested (I’m high maintenance) Great seller! Thank you.
Thats awesome! Would love if you could leave a review on my etsy store! Maybe with pics? Appreciate you.
Once you start your pilot hall, try using the whole sign reverse. We do that when we’re using them through plastic or metal a lot easier less likely to grab and tear things.
🙋♂️ hey man very nice job
Well done ❤️ thanks for the video 👍👍👍
Nice build. Having done this myself I can appreciate the time it takes to lay it out, and make adjustments/trade-offs. That said, I'd recommend just buying one already in the case. Not much more expensive. If you really want to learn the components, just open the case. You'll really learn about it when you need to clean it or troubleshoot problems.
I love the video. Some tips on wiring should you care. You can use tesa tape to make all the wires look "factory." we used it in harley audio. Also, they sell lil square stick on zip tie holders, you could probably print them, they help to route and attach the wiring. Awesome build!
Great tip! Ill have to give it a try!
Will you eventually make a portable power pack to run a diesel heater? I saw your video for the power pack you built for your JoolCa camp shower. It would be interesting to see what you come up with next
27:00 run the wire through the tiny hole first, out the cap, THEN tape it to your fitting.
yes. and i would put all bolts with nuts on the inside of case so threads are not exposed to the weather.
Nice build. Parts on order so we'll see how it goes!
Since I don't see anyone doing it so I've been passing on the info.
I made a true all in one diesel heater using a Ridgid medium size box.
Inside I placed the heater, 20ah LFP battery, solar controller, AC to DC charger, cooling fan, light, voltage monitor, USB, 12v socket, charging port, and a 5 liter fuel tank with quick disconnect fuel hose.
I just started building another case using the Apache 4800 case.
I'm keeping this one simple.
I placed the heater with a 50ah LFP battery. I still had room for the controller, 12v socket, and voltage monitor.
To keep it clean. I mounted a small external case for the fuel pump and the filter. I just started making extendable legs for the case.
Can this unit be placed full time externally mounted? Will dust seep in? Do you offer caps to seal the exit points? Great work
You can use any silicon to seal the pipes. Much cheaper.
Used to seal diesel truck exhaust that way.
I have the 8kw and just came across your build. It’s exactly what I was looking for. I will have to modify my build though. My heater has the 4 port air outlet. Do you have plans to print an adapter for this type of heater casing?
Thank you for the brand pipe suggestion! Following a build but I am using a 2kw and ID of the pipe I bought does not work after cutting it unfortunately.
What size/type of wire did you use to make the power cable?
Recommend a 40mm hole saw for the through-hull exhaust and the quick disconnect plug holes. Otherwise, 2 inches is quite large, 40mm is much neater.
Looks like a nice setup, much more cleaner and organized than the others I've seen. Do you know if anyone has used a webasto unit with your 3d printed pieces? I believe it should all line up, but I haven't played with any of the Chinese ones before
Thank you for the nice comment! if the output diameter is the same for the webasto at either 60mm or 75mm then either my 2kw or 5kw kit should work just fine. The chinese versions appear to be direct copies of the name brand versions.
If the gas cap is vented with a hole in the cap you could replace it with an open close valve. Or replace the cap with one installed.
Brilliant idea. Been looking at these heaters for my boat. Making it portable is great. I could use it in my ice shanty etc. I would advise anyone using one of these to install a carbon monoxide alarm. I think that heater has a low oxygen shutoff right? As for the angle thing I have not found any info on that. Not saying anyone is wrong though.
Thank you for the demo video I really appreciate it! I am building a 2K I’m wondering if I can use the two wire approach that you show in this video. In other words I would get rid of the DC book converter and use the two wire set up. What do you think?
You definitely can! The two sizes are basically identical except size.
Love the guide! I have a question though. Could I install a 2kw on the 4800 case with the 2kw 3d parts? Would this allow for space to fir the air hose in the case for storage?
Thanks!
Love the kit. I had to use a vibratory saw instead of the dermal tool. It was much easier. Assembly took me approximately 4 hours. I also used the five connector for me to place the panel in the tent. I then extended the wires 6 ft. If you run the wire thru the small hole out to the fill hole it's a lot easier. The only concern that I have is that the vent fan runs constantly even if the unit is off. I am currently working on how to stop that without having a secondary switch. If you have any thoughts on that I would love to hear your idea.
My thought was to use some sort of current sensing switch. It senses higher current then turns on) OR find some sort of line inside the heater that runs the heater fan and tap into that. I use this system now for a few years (the 2kw) and the small fan doesnt really drain the battery or anything so I havent invested much time into that part
is the case fan necessary at all?
@@alanhat5252 So far with my experience it can be removed. That being said I believe it does add ventilation to the box for the heater and that isn't a bad thing.
Thanks brotha
Great job! Quick question, what are the dimensions of this heater? Amazon doesn’t provide length, width, or height. Thanks!
I heard about those heaters that exhaust is getting very hot... How is box handling heat?
Awesome video. What size fan fits your printed parts? And did you use a two pin waterproof connector?
Thanks Jeremy, I used an 80mm fan and 2-pin connector in this build. Just added that clarifier in the description, thanks for the pointer.
Great video I am planning on starting soon on my heater case build. I am planning on a 2kw. Can you tell me how you made the window piece? Yours looked nicer that what I was planning.
He 3D prints the pieces.
Awesome video and great kit you sell, I’ll definitely be using it on my build! I noticed that you didn’t add any extra support or backing to the mounting plate, have you had any issues with the case not holding up? Thanks for the vid!
the heater is supported from the sides fairly well so all three points make this a VERY stable install.
Keegan- When placing the fuel fitting in the tank. Feed the wire through the small hole first, as it easier to fish out of the filler neck.Then attach the fitting and pull back through. Moto tanks with fuel pumps are done this way as well. Same issue.
haha genius! why didn't I think of that! (come from moto world myself too)
This is a great build. I purchased all the parts for a 5kw build but now I'm realizing the 3D printed parts are only available for the 2kw version. Do you have plans to release files for the 5kw variants?
Hey Braden I sell the parts for the 5kw kit on my Etsy store.
nvm i found it Best deisel heater Ive ever seen and I bought mine here
Thanks man!
Just curious there a reason so have part of the exhaust (1 foot or so) on the case before exhausting it out? Would it be better to mount the heaters exhaust right against the case, and have it leave right away? The exhaust hose int he case will just cause heat build up and potential fire. No?
Awesome video! Detailed to the max....how much do you charge to build me one?
Interesting device. Why not put the fuel connection on the other side of the tank by the fan side and mount the pump over that way too to keep the exhaust free and clear of the fuel system? It looks like there's room to do it.
I wish l could buy a completed one from you Keagan ❤
Hey Penny! thanks for reaching out, I have a buddy that I could put you in touch with. He actually builds my kit for others, (i have a newborn baby so things have been busy) if you would like I could put you two in touch.
Great job on the 3d parts and a thorough job on the how-to. Just wondering if the 3d parts will work with any other similar 5KW Chinese Diesel heater?
Yes it will work with any of the 5kw heaters. Just double check that you have a 75mm output on the heat side and you should be good to go.
Looks to be a great build! I am just getting all my parts now to try it out! Very much looking forward to it!
Huge question, you don't show much of the unit running other than a bench test, and there is a company that has a similar idea with the unit built in a box, however they show the exhaust extension running out of the box with the a muffler. When you run this in the real world, do you also run something to get the exhaust away from the box and have you thought of trying to put a muffler inside the box? I was thinking IF there was room, maybe wrapping the muffler with heat shield wrapping. From the one video I have found, it does seem to make a difference with the muffler.
I wasn't sure if not running an extension would be a concern with the heat coming out at that point.
I put in an order for your parts last week, I just need your parts to arrive, and I am off building!
Thanks for a great tutorial!
Hey Brad, thanks for the order! I appreciate the business. I do not use a muffler when I run my heater. Its totally able to do it with the extra exhaust piping if you want tho!
I just finished my 5kw build with your parts. Thank you for making this project faster and cleaner. I’m looking for some longer 75mm duct hose. Ideally something more durable and insulated. Any ideas?
amzn.to/3SSZ3c5 a bunch of guys use this for there tube
Congrats, how much did it all cost in the end? I only need a portable heater for ski camping a few nights out of the year as I have a Propane fireplace in my camper already (not good enough when its 0 degrees). I was considering the HCalory HC-A01 but this build looks so nice. I'm guessing it may be more than twice the cost tho.
Ciao,ti scrivo dall'Italia,mi chiedevo dove hai acquistato quella flangia di acciaio inox dove hai raccordato lo scarico della marmitta?EBay,Amazon? Grazie per eventuale risposta.
Awesome build, appreciate your videos and attention to detail. I copied you with the 12v computer fan. I also wired it like you did. The drawback I see with this set up is that once I plug in the power cable (to my power source) the computer fan runs, even if I don't have the heater running. Maybe the fan takes such little power that it is not an issue? Thoughts? Thanks again.
you can add a switch internal or external, its custom, do what you like. I've also see them with just and air filter, no fan.
@@sledhead904 i think I'll leave mine so the computer fan runs whenever it's plugged in. The heater stays outside the tent, so adding a switch means i would need to get to the box to turn it off and on. I control the heater with a remote. I think the computer fan takes negligible power. Not gonna worry about it, unless it becomes an issue.
How will you change or replace that inline fuel filter, if it should ever get bunged up?
Great video and makes me want to build one in a box as well. But I having only worked on Japanese and newer American cars I hate SAE. 2834/0384023rd drill bit verses π/Φ drill bit. Heck even my 82 ford truck had a Mazda metric transmission.
Haha I know right?! Wish it was all metric!
Fish the wire from the small opening and retrieve the end at the filler. It's just easier!
FYI, for those who might do this, Harbor Freight Tools has the same exact box for 60.00
Of course they do . . . This case is made by Harbor Freight.
What kind of filament do you use?
Do you have an Eta on when the 2kw parts might be dropping in the Etsy store next ?
Just reloaded the Etsy store.
Thanks for taking the time for the video. I question the 3d printed fuel pump holder? Isn’t that just a receipt to amplify the already load pump. Mounting it to a hard plastic holder then mounted to the case?
Secondly I question having the exhaust and intake so close together, even though different sides of the case. I have found multiple occasions a slight breeze can blow exhaust around the case and drawn into the intake.
Thirdly? No muffler? Wow that’s a huge mistake
Im planning using you build to make my own diesel heater (2kw) version. I was wondering if you have the STLs for the 2kw version? I found your thingiverse page with the 5kw. Thanks!
I'm curious for the STL files as well
I think if you feed the wire from the outside first then pull out enough to put the o ring and filter on then just pull the wire back out your done no pliers needed
So I have been noticing people DIY are puting the intake combustion pipe internal to their boxes, is this a problem? When I turn off my heater some residual smoke comes out and if it is inside you will see smoke after you turn off heater
Why do some of these heaters throw flames out the exhaust?
What a great video and it's the one I'm going to follow when I build mine. One question though why put the thermostat in the case? Surely you want that in whatever space you're heating?
I find that these thermostats are very ineffective. They heat your room at full blast until gets to temp and then essentially shut down. I find putting in “Hertz” mode you can essentially keep a constant low/medium or high based on your needs with the wireless remote from your tent.
Thank you!! anyone else struggling to get the fuel lines onto male ends? The fuel hose diameter I got seems too small even heated - ID 3mm.
You should find some black hose that you use to join the two parts
What gauge wire does the controller need? Like to run it 10 to 15 feet.
Keegan-
I noticed in your video you’ve linked to the Superfastracing heater. Is there any significant difference between that and the Vevor 5kw heater? Most appear to be identical and are probably manufactured in the same plant. Just wondering what your experience has been. Thanks
Fitz
Hey Dan no big difference
Great setup. Will the parts be back in stock soon on the Etsy site?
Just restocked!
👍 thanks!.. do you know the type of hose and length that comes with it? Only ask because I was looking at getting the insulated stuff
Awesome updated video! I may have missed it in the video and I apologize but , you're leaving the controller now inside the case?
It's easier to run it like this. I run my 2kw like the original video (controller in the tent).
@@keeganbuilds Right on !!
@@keeganbuilds What air duct have you been using that works really well?
Does your kit come with the rubber spacers on the outlet air? If not, where did you get yours?
Those rubber spacers ship with the output from ebay
Love the design! Do you sell the print files if I wanted to print the on my own printer?
I do not, someone tried to steal my design and sell them for themselves so its ruined for everyone now. booo
Ahhh that sucks. Completely understand. Thanks for doing all the hard work so the rest of us can benefit!
If I have a box that has a bunch of ventilation grates already on it…do you think keeping the intake in the box is cool? Or is it critical it be outside or have that cpu fan? I can’t imagine it would lack air
Fan keeps things cool inside, but feel free to test yourself :)
Why does the computer fan both wires red and black get soldered to plug number 2?
What's the right Ducting for these things? I've seen people say the PVC stuff isn't right. I've got some flexible ducting with a PVC outer and a shiny Alum inner...the diameter is fairly small too unless I fully stretch it. Worry about back pressure. The more rigid stuff that came with it seems fine? Is that right?
You can buy longer lengths of the stuff that ships with these kits on eBay. Another option is dryer vent hose with 3” piping (if your using the 5kw kit)
Using your layout and 2kw parts which I bought from you…. Can you put the controller screen inside the 2kw smaller case (without it melting)?
you sure can! Then just remember to run your heater on Hertz mode and control heater speed with the wireless remote.
Almost like an all in one unit, only more expensive
Do you sell prebuilt?
Hi there, do you know of a "Quick Disconnect" hardware set that works with this white fuel line? I need it be valved on both sides so when I disconnect, I don't lose fuel out of either end.
amzn.to/3vWMEdn something like this would work perfect but it looks to be out of stock. You might be able to find something similar on ebay?
Hello,
I am new here. I am very interested in purchasing the whole kit.
no pics of the melted box ???
I didnt know you could run these in different orientations. I thought the exhaust etc always had to be on the "bottom".
If you pop the top off your heater you will notice the glow plug is on the corner of the unit. The glow plug should always remain “up” so fuel doesn’t leak out of the threads. If you can imagine that since it’s located on a corner the unit can be placed on 2 of the 4 sides. Only 2 orientations work to keep that glow plug up. I positioned the heater inside the case so that it can operate either with the case lid open or in briefcase mode. Hope that makes sense
@@keeganbuilds yes! thank you for the quick reply!
hi, what are the dimensions of this box in centimeters?
Can you buy fully built ready to go
Yes I want to buy fully built too
Well done tutorial!! I looked at your parts list and please tell me you didn't pay $500.00 X 2 for the 3" heat output tube?? That would be insane to pay that!! Saw no other options on eBay! I will be buying from amazon.
haha of course not, they should be $19 each. Im guessing they are restocking that piece in which case use the backup option on amazon
@@keeganbuilds Well unfortunately Amazon is out of them also but I did find them on eBay after doing a quick search. Paid about $10 or $12 a piece so they're on their way!
Does this setup have any over heating issues since the air intake is in the case
Not because the fan pushes air into the case to keep things cool
Does the heater you have linked run in Fahrenheit or only Celsius?
I’ve only seen Celsius on the Chinese diesel heaters
Just got my parts of the mail from you, do you have any advice on how to make the fuel pump quieter. The 3d printed fuel pump mount being hard plastic really resonates the noise.
You can add sound deadening material or rubber between the pump and the case and even wedge some into the pump mount itself.
Size of the box in cm?
Why would you have a power switch on the inside
Any idea when you will have the 5/8KW kits back in stock on easy?
Sorry was on a trip didn’t realize it sold out. I’ve fixed it.
I notice on your other video comparing the two builds, you did not seem to remove the side clip from the case as in this video. Has the requirement to remove it on the 4800 case now been eliminated?
Good eye! I definitely recommend removing it. I had to heavy modify the clip to get it fit at first. Eventually didn’t like the way it sat and removed it
@@keeganbuilds I sorted it and now it clips shut just fine and clear the intake grille for the fan and air inlet
two questions for a newbie... how come you don't use the muffler for the exhaust? Also the air intake, wouldn't it be better to take air from outside the case? seems a little risky to take air inside the case if there were any air contamination.
muffler can totally be used, if you want to ive found that these do not make too much noise as is so its just one more thing. As for the air intake, the breathing air is taken from outside the case. The intake that you see inside the case is for the combustion intake. Also, the computer fan forces extra air into the case to clear out any potentially leaks.
Am i missing something? Do you pipe the exhaust out of the building? Not sure whats going on here , like in a hunting cabin.you would have 2 pipe the exhaust out ? Good video thank you
This whole box sits outside and you pipe the heat in to your tent or building.
Will you share the files for the end covers and fan holder or for sale only?
Selling only due to someone trying to sell my designs. Bummer when people do stuff like that
@@keeganbuilds people are terrible. I'd love to print them for personal use! 😁😄 But understand
I have a Vevor 8k that I am trying to salvage. I suppose the 5k parts from your store WOULD NOT work correct?
I believe 5 and 8kw are the same size. Does it use 75mm tubing? If so then it should work
@@keeganbuilds Dude you just need to build these kits also lol. You got the audience that would purchase, including myself.
@@hunter_pauley haha I know right! Wish I could fulfill that
Hello Keegan! Just finished building this and all the hardware etc fits perfect. After initial testing it was working great. However, I just ran into a voltage error code and am not sure why. E-01. Could this be because of my soldering? Using good wiring albeit a cigarette plug off of a Goal Zero 1250. Haven't had issues before with this heater as I had it installed in my previous truck for a few months using the same power source. The Goal Zero is at 1/2 battery capacity but is still supplying 100+ watts when the heater is firing up. It will run for a minute or two then stop due to the voltage code. Any thoughts?
Hey Barry, try plugging that cig lighter plug in to your car whilst the engine is running. This will ensure high amperage. (just as a test). Also question, how long of a cord did you make for this? I wonder if you are getting voltage drop over a long cord length?
@@keeganbuilds I did this and am still getting the code. The cord is 10ft max haven't measured it though. Could be less.
I am going to try to fully charge the battery pack and see if that helps. It usually is connected to my truck and charges while driving. Right now I don't have it installed so it is showing 50% battery capacity. That may be why it is dropping too much voltage. Its a big unit though so I didn't think it would drop so much.
Any update on this code? I have the same thing off my battery kit.
@@NickOcean usually under voltage. Try hooking up to a car battery on a vehicle that is running to rule out possibility
What size would you rec for a 23 foot Weldcraft with a hardtop?
5kw for sure
@@keeganbuilds thank you
Is it possible to lay this set up on its side? Or must it be vertical?
it can be in its side. You just really need to watch out for the fuel tank lid. That is the only thing that must remain vertical because of the vent in the fuel lid could leak.
Do you do this for costumers? And where are you located?
I do not, and Seattle.
Where can I find to buy the just the case, I've got a 5kw heater. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks
Harbor Freight
does anyone have a link to a "how-to" on wiring the DC plug that goes into the case?
wiring starts at this point in the video @33:18
@@keeganbuilds Sorry, I guess I got ahead of myself. I'm still around 14:00 of the video on the build
@@toddreich it’s a long one haha. Feel free to reach out with any questions :)
are the 8kw and the 5kw the same size? I am at a mile high and lose efficiency so would like to use a 8kw
Same size
What fuel line did you use?
the white kind that ships with the kits.
Are you not concerned about the byproduct from the burnt fuel out through the exhaust ? carbon monoxide poisoning ?
Maybe i missed something but what is the purpose for putting it in a box?
Portable in one easy carry, already setup unit. Depends what you are using the heater for and where you are going to mount it. You could borrow this too someone whose heat was out with little setup.
Do you sell the stl files?
I do not
surely a good idea would be to move the controller outside the case so you dont need too keep operning it up?
Guessing you missed the wireless remote part?
@@keeganbuilds oh they have one? Sorry :)
@@Dafoxx-1 haha yup! Gotta watch the whole video :)
anyone found the secret code word for finding the 3” exhaust outlet adapter plates?
How critical is aluminum VS. Plastic for this part?
Better to use ALUMINIUM not Aluminum.