Magnetic Oil and Transmission Pan Heater for Use on a 2008 Chevrolet Diesel Truck

Updated 01/10/2017 | Published 01/09/2017

Question:

I have a 2008 Chevy Duramax diesel pick up truck. At temps down around zero or lower, oil and/or tranny fluid blows out from around the filter gaskets and it seems just too cold for proper start up - even with factory cold weather plug-in - which I believe only warms a portion of coolant. Are there aftermarket warmers for the oil pan and tranny pan ? - I assume they would be magnetic ? I see one that claims to advertise heating until 275F is reached ? - that seems kind of high, doesnt it?

asked by: Bill N

Expert Reply:

The Kat's Heaters magnetic heater that you would use on your 2008 Chevy truck is the Handi-Heat Magnum # KH1190. It's designed to heat an area up to 20 square inches and is made for larger trucks. It does include a thermostat to automatically shut off when it reaches 275 degrees Farhrenheit.

275 degrees does sound extremely hot. However, since the heater has to compete with external temperatures (Which are going to be quite cold or the heater wouldn't be necessary) plus transfer heat through the metal surface it's connected to it needs to be hot in order to in order to produce enough heat to impact the 20 square inches of heated area.

expert reply by: Charles S