Features to know about

Warm More Oil Before a Cold Start

When temperatures drop, thick engine oil creates more resistance during cranking and takes longer to circulate. This 250-watt silicone pad warms 5 to 13 quarts of engine oil through the metal pan, reducing that resistance and getting lubrication moving sooner. It's a useful option for trucks and equipment with larger oil capacities that spend winter nights outside or in an unheated shop.

This heater also works with hydraulic and transmission systems holding 10 to 30 gallons of fluid. Warming those fluids before operation can make a difference when cold equipment feels sluggish and the hydraulics or transmission need time to warm up.

Make Sure Your Pan Has Room for the Heater

Before choosing a pad, take a look underneath your oil pan, transmission housing, or hydraulic tank. This one measures 4-1/2" long x 3-1/2" wide, and the entire pad must contact a flat, smooth metal surface. Ridges, grooves, bends, or other raised areas can leave gaps underneath the heater and interfere with heat transfer.

The adhesive backing works on steel or aluminum, so you're not limited to the steel surfaces required by a magnetic heater. Proper preparation matters, though. Remove paint, grease, and dirt from the mounting area, warm the metal as instructed, and make sure the pad is fully bonded before regular use.

Keep the Heat Regulated While Your Equipment Is Parked

A built-in thermostat regulates the pad within a 170F to 200F range, cycling the heater as needed instead of continuously heating at full power. The temperature of the oil or other fluid will vary with the weather, fluid volume, and installation. Once properly mounted, the pad can stay attached to your equipment, with the included 6' grounded cord ready to plug into a 120V outlet during cold spells.

Pair Oil Heat With Other Cold-Weather Starting Aids

An oil-pan heater warms the lubricant, while an engine block heater (sold separately) primarily warms the coolant. For equipment that regularly sees severe cold, using both addresses different parts of the starting process. A battery heater (sold separately) can also maintain available cold-cranking amps. Together, these heaters can help prepare your engine and battery for freezing mornings.

Cold-Weather Experience Behind the Zerostart Name

Zerostart is a Phillips & Temro brand, from the company behind a broad line of engine, battery, and equipment heaters. If the Zerostart name is new to you, this pad comes from a manufacturer that has spent years developing products for cold-weather equipment operation.