Can the Diesel Heater Be Installed Outside the Vehicle?
2 Answers
No. The diesel heater is installed near the cab, and it can be placed under the passenger seat by lifting the seat. Introduction to Diesel Heaters: A diesel heater, also known as a diesel parking heater, is a vehicle heating device primarily used for warming the cabs of trucks, operable both while driving and parked. When installing a diesel heater, it is essential to use formal channels and hire qualified technicians for the installation. Retrofitting a diesel heater into a vehicle requires modifications to the original fuel lines and electrical circuits. If the modifications are not standardized and fail to meet safety requirements, issues can easily arise. Installation Notes for Diesel Heaters: Most diesel heaters are installed with the heating outlet placed under the bunk and the exhaust outlet set beneath the cab. If the cab's bottom is not well-sealed, prolonged use while parked may allow exhaust gases to enter the cab, causing oxygen deprivation inside. People may not realize they are experiencing oxygen deprivation while asleep, which could lead to fatal dangers.
I've been driving heavy trucks for over a decade, and let me tell you, diesel heaters should never be installed outside. Generally, diesel heaters are designed to be installed inside the vehicle, like in the trunk or under the seats. Why? Exposing them to the outside leads to a ton of problems. Rainwater can seep in, causing electrical shorts and sparks; road dust and dirt can clog the air intake, drastically reducing efficiency and increasing fuel consumption. I once saw a case in our fleet where a driver installed it outside the bumper for convenience, and after a bumpy ride, the fuel line leaked, nearly causing a fire. The professional advice is to choose an internal location—safe, reliable, and saves on maintenance costs. If you're dead set on installing it outside, you’ll need waterproof and dustproof kits, but the risks are too high. I’d urge you to think twice and consult a knowledgeable mechanic to check your vehicle’s structure before installation—otherwise, you might end up wasting money and effort.
