Attaching An Oil Pan Heater: A Step-By-Step Guide

Oil pan heaters are a great way to ensure your engine has better lubrication during cold starts. They work by increasing the ability of the oil to flow, reducing dry start-up. The silicone plate can be installed in 5 minutes without the need for special service. It is necessary to clean and degrease the engine crankcase, remove the protective layer and glue the plate to the engine crankcase. The plates can be installed not only on the engine but also on any other technological equipment, for example, for heating tanks with water and other liquids. However, it is important to constantly monitor the process to avoid overheating and causing damage to your pan.

Clean the oil pan surface with sandpaper or a wire wheel

To attach an oil pan heater, it is recommended to first clean the oil pan surface with sandpaper or a wire wheel. This process involves removing any paint, rust, or debris from the surface of the oil pan to ensure a strong adhesion for the heater.

When using sandpaper, it is suggested to start with a finer grit, such as 150-grit sandpaper, to remove the paint and create a clean surface. After sanding, the area should be cleaned with alcohol to remove any remaining residue. This will ensure a smooth and even surface for the oil pan heater to adhere to.

Alternatively, a wire wheel can be used to effectively remove paint and debris from the oil pan surface. A wire wheel attached to a drill can make the process faster and more efficient. However, it is important to be cautious when using a wire wheel to avoid damaging the surface of the oil pan. A handheld wire brush can also be used for light paint removal or to remove paint from intricate areas.

Once the surface is clean and free of paint, it is essential to seal the edges of the oil pan heater with silicone or RTV to ensure a secure and watertight adhesion. This will help prevent any leaks and ensure the heater's effectiveness.

Overall, cleaning the oil pan surface with sandpaper or a wire wheel is a crucial step in the process of attaching an oil pan heater. It ensures a strong and secure adhesion, preventing leaks and promoting the efficient heating of the oil pan.

Degrease the oil pan

To attach an oil pan heater, you'll first need to prepare the surface of the oil pan. This involves cleaning and degreasing the pan. Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to effectively degrease your oil pan:

Step 1: Choose a Degreasing Method

There are several methods to degrease an oil pan effectively. You can use a heavy-duty degreasing product, or opt for a DIY solution. Popular degreasing products include Goo Gone Kitchen Degreaser and Method Heavy Duty Degreaser. If you prefer a homemade solution, you can try the boil method, or create a mixture of vinegar, salt, and baking soda. Additionally, you can use a bleach-based cleansing powder along with hot water.

Step 2: Prepare the Degreaser

If you choose to use a store-bought degreaser, follow the instructions on the product label. For a DIY solution, prepare the mixture accordingly. For the boil method, simply heat water in the oil pan. If using vinegar, baking soda, and salt, mix these ingredients in your sink, ensuring the sink is plugged to prevent the mixture from draining out. Add the vinegar first, followed by the baking soda, and then fill the sink with water. For the bleach-based method, sprinkle the cleansing powder into the oil pan and then pour in hot water.

Step 3: Apply the Degreaser

Spray or apply the degreaser generously onto the oil pan, making sure to cover all greasy areas. If using the boiling method, simply heat the oil pan with water on a stovetop or in a microwave oven. For the vinegar, baking soda, and salt mixture, submerge the oil pan in the solution and let it soak for 30 minutes to an hour. Similarly, for the bleach-based method, allow the oil pan to soak in the solution for 30 minutes to an hour.

Step 4: Scrub and Rinse

After allowing the degreaser to work its magic, it's time to scrub and rinse the oil pan. Use a sponge, scrub pad, or steel wool to scrub away any remaining grease and residue. Be careful when using steel wool, as it can scratch some pans. Rinse the oil pan thoroughly with water, ensuring all degreaser residue is removed. If you have an aluminum pan, use a paper towel to dry it properly to prevent rusting.

By following these steps and choosing the degreasing method that suits your needs, you'll effectively degrease your oil pan, preparing it for the attachment of an oil pan heater. Remember to always wear protective gear, such as rubber gloves, when handling degreasers and cleaning agents.

Apply adhesive to the oil pan

To apply adhesive to the oil pan, start by cleaning and degreasing the engine crankcase. It is important to remove any paint or protective layers from the surface of the pan, as the adhesive will need to be applied directly to the metal. You can use sandpaper, a roloc disk, or a power tool such as a grinding disk to remove the paint and create a slightly rough surface for better adhesion. Once the surface is clean and free of paint, apply a liberal amount of a high-temperature adhesive, such as Permatex 77 BR silicon or a similar product, to both the pan and the heat pad. Make sure to cover both surfaces evenly and generously.

After applying the adhesive, carefully install the heat pad onto the pan, ensuring that it is aligned correctly. Once the heat pad is in place, apply pressure to remove any excess adhesive that may be squeezed out from between the pad and the pan. This will create a strong bond and ensure that the heat pad is securely attached to the oil pan. It is important to follow the instructions and recommendations provided by the manufacturer of the heat pad and adhesive for the best results.

The type of adhesive used is crucial for the safe and effective installation of the oil pan heater. A high-temperature adhesive, such as Permatex 77 BR silicon, is designed to withstand the heat generated by the heater and the engine. It is essential to use an adhesive that is specifically designed for high-temperature applications to prevent failure or damage to the oil pan or heater. Additionally, the adhesive should be compatible with the materials of the oil pan and heater to ensure a strong and durable bond.

When applying the adhesive, it is important to work in a clean and well-ventilated area. This will help ensure that the adhesive cures properly and creates a strong bond. It is also recommended to wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, to safeguard against any accidental contact with the adhesive. By following these instructions and taking the necessary precautions, you can effectively apply adhesive to the oil pan and install the heater securely.

Attach the heater to the pan

To attach the heater to the pan, you must first prepare the surface of the pan. This involves removing any paint and ensuring the surface is clean, dry, and slightly rough to aid adhesion. You can use sandpaper, a roloc disk, or a power tool such as a drill with a wire wheel attachment to achieve this. It is important to note that you should not make the surface completely smooth, as a slightly rough texture will help the heater pad adhere better.

Once the surface is prepared, you can proceed to attach the heater. Flexible silicone heating plates are a popular option, as they can be installed on the crankcase or engine blocks and are resistant to engine vibration and friction. Clean the engine crankcase and remove any protective layers or grease. Then, apply a liberal amount of silicone adhesive, such as Permatex 77 BR silicon, to both the pan and the heat pad. Ensure that you apply enough pressure to remove any excess silicone between the pad and the pan.

Some heater pads may come with their own adhesive, in which case you would follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. It is important to seal the edges of the heater pad to the pan to ensure a secure fit. You can use high-temp red silicone or RTV to seal the perimeter and protect against oil leaks.

After attaching the heater, you can choose to splice the heater into the cord for your block heater, using a single plug for both. Alternatively, you can bring both plugs to the same place and tie them together with a cord that has two female plugs.

Seal the edges with high-temp silicone

To seal the edges with high-temp silicone, start by cleaning and degreasing the engine crankcase. Remove any protective layer or coating on the crankcase, such as paint, using sandpaper or a grinding disk. The surface does not need to be completely smooth, but it should be free of any debris or residue. Once the surface is prepared, apply a liberal amount of high-temperature silicone, such as Permatex 77 BR silicon, to both the crankcase and the heat pad. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application.

Place the heat pad onto the crankcase, ensuring that it is securely adhered and that the edges are sealed with the silicone. Apply pressure to remove any excess silicone between the pad and the crankcase. The silicone will act as a barrier, preventing oil or other fluids from leaking out around the edges of the heat pad. It will also help to insulate the heat, directing it towards the crankcase and improving the efficiency of the heater.

High-temperature silicone is designed to withstand extreme temperatures and will not break down or degrade over time due to the heat generated by the oil pan heater. It is important to use a silicone product that is specifically designed for high-temperature applications, as this will ensure that the seal is maintained and that the heater functions optimally.

After applying the silicone and attaching the heat pad, allow the silicone to cure completely before operating the vehicle or heater. This will ensure that the seal is fully set and will help to prevent any leaks or damage to the heater. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended curing time and any other specific guidelines for the installation of the oil pan heater and silicone sealant.

Frequently asked questions