Diesel Heaters

[kidjedi]

I have recently installed three of the $150 Chinese diesel heaters in a couple of Airstreams (one Airstream got two, because one is allocated to below
deck tanks and behind the cabinet areas). The 5kw heater can definitely bring the entire 25' trailer up to temp and maintain comfortable heat in sub
zero temps, but they are well-insulated (frame off resto) Airstreams.

I am currently trying to gather info. on gasoline (vs. diesel) heaters for the GMC because I'd like to plumb off the main tank instead of having an
additional diesel tank to keep filled.

Lots of people say the Chinese diesel heaters will run on gasoline, but every real world example I've seen has proven sketchy at best.

Webasto is a name I trust and I keep reading that they can run on diesel OR gasoline, but I can't find an explanation of HOW. I don't want to run a
gasoline unit that is trying to fire off a diesel glow plug ignitor (like the Chinese ones do), but I can't find information that confirms Webasto
having an ignitor that will effectively work for either fuel source.

I am willing to pay 10x as much ($1500 vs. $150) for the heater as long as I know that it will be worth it.

 

[douglas smith]

Kid,
You need to talk to the Webasto people directly. When their data sheet so clearly says gasoline is an acceptable fuel it shouldn't be an issue whether
or not it works. I expect there are differences to accommodate the volatility issues. But I think a call to their customer support line would answer
your questions.
--
Douglas & Virginia Smith,
dsmithy18 at gmail,
Lincoln Nebraska,
’73 “Sequoia” since ‘95: "Wanabizo";
Quadrabag/6 wheel disks/3:70 final/Paterson QuadraJet/Thorley’s/Alloy wheels/Sundry other

 

[mckarlas]

I recently installed a chinese diesel heater in out '75 Palm Beach. I have the write up with pictures in the other forum:
https://www.gmcmotorhome.org/threads/diesel-heater-installation.1482/

To answer the question above about Webasto heaters, they have different lines for Diesel and Gas heaters. The ones for diesel have a letter "D"
(Diesel) in the model number, the ones for gas - letter "B" (benzin) in the model number. Most of the internals are the same for gas and diesel
heaters with the biggest difference being the burner assembly.