Must watch before you use your new Planar Heater! [How-To] Disassemble and Clean Planar Heater

[@Vtlli]

I feel I have to put my line as well. Thank you for this video instruction. I used it a second time to clean my 44d. After the first time, I ran it at full power so often. Eventually happens the second time, maybe diesel is not high quality for that. And the chamber inside was not so dirty as yours, but yesterday it refused to start and gave me lots of smoke. Now it works perfectly.

[@AdventureRig]

Yeah running it on kerosene has helped immensely for me. Just not as excited that I can’t run it on diesel which is east to obtain for me.

[@gregm.846]

I have had this same heater in my Catalina 30 boat which I live aboard in the PNW. I have used it for 4 years now and NEVER had to do this. I also have used it almost every day, even in summer in the morning to drive out the moisture. I always start it on high and run for at least 30 mins. I dial it down for a few hours but always go back to high before I initiate shut down. Most heaters like this and space heaters for shops have the same issues. I always run regular diesel, not kerosene ever...The quality of diesel now is much cleaner than in years past. Pay attention to the instructions, they have gone through some fuel pump upgrades as well and the orientation changed.

[@ralphfergusson5191]

Greg, Do you have any pictures of your installation?

[@sortofsmarter]

I also have the same heater in my 27 foot Apollo, but my rig is gasoline so I run the heater on kerosene and have never had any issue in 2 years.

[@aerodicus]

@Micha EL To be a little more concise, kerosene is considered diesel #1 and is lighter and less fragrant/cleaner burning than diesel#2 which is for use in modern automotive engines, that being said diesel #1 is lacking the viscosity that #2 has which lubricates pumps/injectors and generates more heat during combustion.

[@AdventureRig]

Greg M. Thanks for the input Greg. I’m guessing that using it at sea level vs 10,000 feet has quite a bit to do with the difference in how they run.

[@mmnootzenpoof]

@Micha EL that's backwards. on-road diesel has no dye. off-road diesel and kerosene have red dye, because they are not taxed. getting caught with red dye in your vehicle's tank will earn you a big fine.

[@briansmyla8696]

I bought a Chinese knockoff heater, and the one that I have allows me to adjust the air/fuel ratio via the controller. Soot builds up primarily as a result of insufficient combustion air compared to the amount of fuel. If the Planar allows you to increase the amount of air and / or decrease the amount of fuel injected when running at the low setting, you might try making adjustments to get it to burn as lean as possible while still maintaining steady combustion. That may resolve your soot issue.

[@AdventureRig]

Brian Smyla Hi Brian thanks for the feedback.

[@underwoodblog]

I have the 8KW chinese version with red oled remote. Do you know what the parameter PF-1 to PF-6 means? Have asket the seller but I only got stupid answers. I also have an option off and on in the options menu.

[@sixyonex7385]

Great video, Love my heater. I switch it to kerosene at higher altitudes and never had it coke up again. Diesel fuel has wax in it that is hard to burn off.

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for watching. I agree with the Kerosene and run a mix if the heater is not running on high.

[@michael-dm2bv]

espar recommends running their heaters on kerosene for awhile if you have issues.

[@stevenumphlett6730]

You should put diesel additive to your tank because it will grow mold and clogged up your line..

[@lastname3924]

Run a mix or it will kill your pump. Straight kero will kill the pumps seals

[@KenjiFox]

Quick suggestion here. You cleaned the outside of the burner assembly, and the inside of the heatsink that it goes into. However, that tube that the flame burns inside of is also removable. That is the actual burner. You should also remove that and clean the chamber in front of it where the glow plug is. You could completely clean the flame chamber out but still have a poor air fuel mix and unreliable lighting as well as smoke when all is said and done. Since you've go it that far, clean the whole thing to save yourself having to possibly tear it apart again soon. Great video though! Another thing, even if you run these heaters full tilt to burn off the soot, expect to take them apart and clean them once every 3-5 years of use. They may require a new glow plug or burner assembly at that time too. No big, parts are cheap. They don't go forever like a propane furnace though.

[@AdventureRig]

I didn't even think about that. Thanks for your input!

[@kimberlykersh6622]

Greatt price is here bit.ly/2GUKAa0 Pretty cool! :D kzbin.info/www/bejne/bKjVl3irhrB1f68

[@robertmencl9169]

Have you considered running your heater on kerosene instead?

[@macclark4112]

Sea Foam spray will take care of everything involved in the burn off. Just add light touches to air induction until the smoke clears.

[@kayakchrispy]

@@robertmencl9169 kerosene doesn’t lubricate … the pump will fail prematurely.. diesel lubricants the pump

[@nicholassinclair4589]

Thank you for your video. Great content and useful comments. I live full time in a e350 15 passenger van along with my dog. I work construction outside everyday right now. I also live in nw Washington. PNW. These heaters... I cannot express enough how much I appreciate this technology. I've tried different forms of propane heaters and even a wood stove. This was the solution for me. I'm going to kick it to high often to burn the soot now. Staying dry all year long. ' ) !

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for watching Nicholas. I agree these heaters do an amazing job. Here's to staying warm and dry!

[@c.a.mcneil7599]

Have a espar d2 and for years I was replacing my atomizer screen last two years before I shut it down ran on high cook it and now white smoke. It’s in my semi truck . 8800 hours on it cook it is the go.

[@AdventureRig]

Definitely.

[@kayakchrispy]

I installed mine and used it for about 20 hours not knowing that information I was running it on low turning it off excited to have a new product starting it up again running it on low I must’ve turned it off and on 10 times in 20 hours and would crank it up but then turn it down to low cause it’s so hot the next day to it wouldn’t light and was smoking I took it apart and was full of soot! One day of use !

[@AdventureRig]

Been there done that.

[@jasonmatranga7058]

You have answered a lot of questions on design maintenance and overall configuration that I have been looking for for a while thank you so much for your video keep going as long as you can for however you can thank you so much again

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for watching Jason and I'm glad you found answers to your questions.

[@tyflesh]

With my diesel heater I removed the glow plug and there is a screen just below it that was caked with soot removed it and replaced it with a new one from a tune up kit i got online included a new glow plug and igniter but this completely took care of the non fire issue and billowing smoke from the raw fuel not igniting, but your video does add another piece of the puzzle for a complete tuneup. I have been running these heaters for several years now and find after 2 full winter seasons i have had to do a tuneup and clean. but I was told that if you run them a couple times in the off season I wouldn't have the no fire issue, but haven't tried it I just think lowering the temp for to long causes the soot build up.. But great video thanks for sharing..

[@AdventureRig]

Ty Fleshman Thanks for watching Ty and great advice!

[@johnkennedy486]

Thanks Mate. I have a diesel heater, different brand that is a lot harder to disassemble but I suspect I suffered the same issues. Whilst I couldn't get at the combustion chamber like you could, I also found an excess of soot had restricted functionality. In the end I used a hammer to tap & vibrate lots of soot out the exhaust, whilst a cable tie inserted in & out helped to loosen stubborn build up. I too will routinely run mine at high temps now and I can also confirm my mistake was to run the diesel heater on low temp settings for way too long. Thanks again mate, your vid totally supported my suspicions.

[@AdventureRig]

John Kennedy thanks for watching John and I hope that solves your problems.

[@c.a.mcneil7599]

Yes I also was thinking of getting high altitude kit for my espar. All I do after 4 years just replacing the atomizer screen. Run it high at cook it 2 years no problem 8800 hours on my. Espar d2. That’s even with winter diesel.

[@AdventureRig]

Awesome!

[@d3nyou]

Thank you mate, working again after some days without it. !!!

[@AdventureRig]

Nice!!

[@miken7629]

I remember a heater, where the instructions mentioned, that when starting, you need to run it on high for 10 minutes, before lowering the setting. It is the same as your result, but set it high at the beginning, not the end. So every time you start it, you burn off the soot.

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for watching and for the input!

[@mobileempire5522]

Is there a gasket between the 2 halfs ? I normally crank it up once in a while because I saw this video a long time ago , my Planner 44d was working great for about 5 years no issues but this morning the outside temperature was negative 27 Fahrenheit and the heater blinked 2 times (code 13 ) I'm going to heat my fuel pump up with a heat gun , hoping there's just ice in my fuel lines Probably clean it out too or see how dirty , thanks for posting

[@AdventureRig]

No there is no gasket.

[@Whoosh0001]

Thx, superusefull! I'm planning the build-in of my Troopy, and this reminds me to plan for easy access of the heater. Great!

[@AdventureRig]

For sure, keep it accessible.

[@DoogieLabs]

Been looking at these for a while and stumbled across this beforehand. Thank you for sharing!

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for watching! I have a few videos posted of the heater so be sure to check those out as well. I love it!

[@mannyfragoza9652]

from the little i could see the heatsink still looks dirty is it recommended to clean it with lets say a Carb cleaner?

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for watching.

[@michaelm9621]

This is so helpful, thank you for posting.

[@AdventureRig]

Michael M you're welcome and thank you for watching.

[@jamesreinhardt3107]

My question is does your heater have a altimeter in the control system to adj the fuel? Many heaters i looked at don't, which is why i purchased a Espar. Most of the others use jetting to make them work in a range. I have used mine at sea level and as high up as 14k with no issues so far.

[@AdventureRig]

James Reinhardt It does not but they have now come out with versions meant for high altitude. The update will be available in the next couple of months for this heater and I will be switching out the pump once it’s available.

[@tedsamuels3203]

This video was very helpful THANKS for sharing 👍

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks so much for the comment!

[@ronwasser4852]

Wow it really was Full of soot. Hope their burn on high tip works to keep it burning clean. Thanks, great video.

[@AdventureRig]

Ron Wasser Thanks for watching Ron. I’ve since switched to kerosene and between that and running on high it’s been perfect.

[@dawidwojtaldw]

Hi good man,is better using diesel from car tank or using red diesel (heating oil) we have in ireland red heating oil thanks.

[@AdventureRig]

dawidwojtaldw I have heard different things on diesel as to what is best. For me at altitude kerosene works very well.

[@dougferguson5581]

I baught an 8Dm. Ran it with diesel controller and it's never missed a beat.

[@AdventureRig]

Our 8DM ran great as well.

[@dougferguson5581]

@@AdventureRig 9 dm next winter with a controller that WORKS. lol

[@AdventureRig]

@@dougferguson5581 I have a new controller that is all digital and it’s freaking awesome. I’ll post a video this winter on it.

[@dougferguson5581]

@@AdventureRig coil the sooner the better. Ya tried 3 different models. None worked yo the point where it acquired the temp shut off and restarted.

[@richardmitchell2274]

I have eberspacher heater in my truck we never have this problem when you turn it on stick the thermostate up full then turn it down after a while and check the air intake for dust build up you should have any problem and they always smoke when first turn them on I've had 25 years of using these night heaters hope this helps :-)

[@AdventureRig]

Richard Mitchell Thanks for the input Richard.

[@richardmitchell2274]

@@AdventureRig no worries fella hope it helps :-)

[@mikespice8907]

hey man when you say low settings, are you possibly talking about the Hz settings? I usually run mine at 3hz and wanted to know if i should turn it up to 5.5hz every now and then?

[@AdventureRig]

I’m referring to temp.

[@nortonexpresscorp3442]

I don't know how my Chinese heater sometimes blows smoke inside of my semi truck. You have any idea.regards

[@AdventureRig]

If you have smoke inside your cab it's because the exhaust is getting in. I would seal everything tightly.

[@zuluflight5467]

this is an eye opener. thanks for uploading

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for watching!

[@peteranderson6172]

We had the same problem, Chinese instruction book and writing on control . Be careful also, we vented exhaust down under caravan on to ground in open space . but ..This caused diesel fumes to build up in caravan . Had to make exhaust much longer well away from caravan to fix this

[@AdventureRig]

Hi Peter. Where did you buy your heater? I don't have any Chinese writing in any of my manuals. If you go to Planars website they had a message on the home page saying companies were selling knockoff units from China and only to buy from known retailers. I agree with the exhaust. I ended up making mine 8' long to vent it properly.

[@peteranderson6172]

I just learned another thing from. Your video .Im. in the mountains of New Zealand at altitude. This could be factor also .thanks for your video !!! Really enjoyed it Regards Pete

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for watching!

[@rotfiction]

Hello Tyson, I was wondering if you had any other issues after installing the heater back in place. I followed your instructions and installed the heater back its place. However, I m getting error no.13 on the display of controller and I don't know how to proceed further. What would you suggest to do? Greetings from Amsterdam (NL), Bart

[@AdventureRig]

amfiction I didn't have an issue but 13 is because it's not getting fuel. Try relighting it a couple times. The fuel has probably not made its way to the heater after disconnecting it.

[@rotfiction]

Adventure Rig the pump seems to work coz it makes some noise, exhaust lets the smoke through. I guess there might something wrong here. Would it be possible to skype with you shortly?

[@AdventureRig]

Sorry I'm a bit tied up today. You didn't forget to connect the glow plug right (I know it's kind of a dumb question but if it wasn't connected it definitely would prevent it from firing).

[@marrobert1528]

Thanks for the video, really helpful. I did watch it when I bought the High Altitude Russian Plantar model so I ran it on M/high most of the time and never at night when I'm sleeping. Use warm blankets! It has now been used in my Diesel Sprinter van for two winters. My last ski trip in Silverton Mt the heater did exactly what you described in your video. Lot of white smoke and wouldn't heat up. Bummed... Snowing and I now need to get it up and running. It is tapped into my fuel tank and mounted under the passenger seat. It will be a real pain to take it out to clean it. If I disconnected my fuel line and ran it into a can of Kerosene would it clean up? You mention using Kerosene full time now. Did you mount a tank under your van or do you carry cans? How long will a gallon last on Med/high. I dread the thought of dealing with another fuel source so any suggestions would be great. Thanks

[@AdventureRig]

I would try kerosene first and see if that cleans it up but most likely it will need to be cleaned. I run a separate tank on our trailer. It may just be something that needs yearly maintenance although it sounds like a pain in your case.

[@marrobert1528]

@@AdventureRig Thanks for getting back to me. Mine doesn't get used a lot maybe 20 to 30 times a winter but it is used at high altitude over 8000, 3/4 of the use. How often should I replace the gaskets and filters. Thanks Marie

[@kc3678]

Blankets ain't an option for me as I'm in Canada and may need to sleep in vehicle while finding housing. This can be life or death. These things cost 1000 bucks plus taxes and whatever else to get them installed. Now wonder people buy cheap versions if paying more gets no more reliability.

[@SandroTrunz]

A natural tutor, thx Adventure Rig. Well set up, well filmed, well narrated, well done: a true-blue natural tutor. (Do you have a teaching background? Where are you adventuring around?) Greetings from Switzerland, Sandro

[@AdventureRig]

Sandro Trunz Thanks for watching Sandro! I do not have any teaching background but I do enjoy helping people where I can. I see you’re from Switzerland. Cally and I did a Europe trip last year and what a beautiful country! Right now we are finishing up our summer work season and then we’ll hit the road for a trip to Mexico.

[@SandroTrunz]

@@AdventureRig Nice one. Well, as I wrote: A natural. Hmm, how did you get your van/camper over the pond? - Enjoy Mexico! (Que lo disfruten!) ... Check out Baja California and/on Guadalajara ... ravishing! Beautiful country indeed, just getting a little pokey ... Best, Sandro

[@AdventureRig]

@@SandroTrunz We actually rented a small camper van in London and then left from there. We're heading down into Baja and pretty pumped about it! It should be a blast.

[@MessianicJudaism]

Hi Tyson, great video. This is a need to know. I'm looking for a 8kw or larger device. Do you have any info about larger devices? Thanks.

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for watching Kelly. I'm not sure who would make one that large. Have you thought about installing 2?

[@saschakolb7102]

with my fathers diesel heater we had a similar problem. This heater was not easy to reach, so I wasnt able to clean mechanically. But I tried a chemical way and it had a positive effect. (I will not guarantee for anything, it is only experimental stage. Carbon needs a minimum temperature to burn to co2. It is possible to lower this reaction temperature if you spray urea nitrate into air inlet (of burning chamber) while heater is running on high power. This will clean the burning chamber without disassemble. Early particulate filter used this chem. knowledge for burning the collected carbon. Sooner or later I will test and verify, but due to bad healthy conditions (stroke/apoplexy) things must wait. eventuelly some other person wants to do xperiments and test it. "Ad blue" is urea nitrate with demineralized water and non freezant (as far I know), but I used from drugstore with destilled water and really very fine fog /sprayer. As far as I remember abt. 5 mililiters in 5 minutes. Not huge amounts of liquid, its only kind of a catalyst! I used a nearly saturated solution.

[@AdventureRig]

Worth a try. Thanks!

[@SubaruLove]

Great tip! Thanks!

[@br5498]

Def is not a cleaner...don't introduce it to the combustion side ...try a cleaner Sea foam is a good cumbustion chamber cleaner.

[@666stimpy1]

cool video makes me pleased at you say they help straitaway cause i have just order their newest 5kw 12v with digital display so video lets me know i have gotten something good

[@AdventureRig]

Awesome I think you'll love it!

[@Garo48]

I wonder if you can help me. I have a similar heater the Planar D2 . It tends to "false start" now and again. .. The routine it goes through to start sounds a bit different with the clicking of the pump a bit faster tnan normal. Then it like shuts off for a few seconds then Pang makes a loud scrtchy fan noise. I then turn it off and restart and it usually performes properly on the second try. Any suggestions as to what might be causing this " false start"??

[@AdventureRig]

Is it giving you any error codes?

[@Garo48]

@@AdventureRig I don't have any sort of display :-) So, no :-)

[@AdventureRig]

@@Garo48 I'm not sure what the noise is that you're hearing. I would send them an email. They've always been helpful for me.

[@Garo48]

@@AdventureRig I live in Sweden so I guess it would be over at: www.planarheaters.com?

[@bobhardy8399]

i hooked up my heater neg-to pos, and pos to neg, now i can't get any power to it. can i get some advice on how to repair this. thanks.

[@AdventureRig]

I'm not sure that would blow the fuse since it's now on the opposite side and now hooked to negative but I would start with that. If that's not blown it may have damaged the circuit board.

[@electronicsworkbench]

Referring to the beginning of the video, they didn't put the information to run it at high temp in the instructions would imply there's a design flaw. It also gives them a better opportunity to generate revenue from servicing units. I had one in my ThermoKing TriPac equipped '06 Freightliner Columbia. Bought the rig new and had to have the heater serviced every other year. When they run, they run gooooood!

[@AdventureRig]

K4ACS Smitty N. Yeah they’re great!

[@stepankoudelka1717]

Usually it is better to take smaller heater and let it run always and be a bit cold then have to control the temperature all the time

[@kc3678]

Just started looking for a brand to buy. I happen to live in the same area as their distributor. They are not cheap and the fact they don't mention this in their instructions just shows how corporations don't take responsibility for their product. The warranty is only a year or so as well, I'll double check. If the company were forced to clean them they would probably start writing it in their manuals. But what consumer wants to go through the cleaning process. I might just buy a cheap version and take my chances as well. Their quality certification means sh*t. Thanks for posting

[@AdventureRig]

I would save the money and try a cheap version and see if it's any different.

[@dougferguson5581]

Hi. So ive run the 8 dm in my 37 ft Camio for 4 winters. No thermostat I've ever had sent to me from Planar has ever worked. I also use diesel conditioner in ever 5 gallons I put threw it. It runs great...never had an issue. Has anyone out there baught the new 9 DM ? Thinking of getting one for winter 2022. I do recommend these heaters.

[@AdventureRig]

Have you seen the new electronic thermostat they offer? It's a touch screen and super user friendly.

[@dougferguson5581]

@@AdventureRig hi. Ya tried them all. There's no one near me to service them . I had an rv tec try that one too. It just runs full time. I'm going to get a 9 dm next year I think. Wish there was a vid on here showing how it runs. 4 seasons on the 8 now. Never had it cleaned . I run conditioner threw it. I'm sure it's got soot . No idea how many years they are good for but I sure don't want it yo calf in 20 below weather. Will toss it and buy new.

[@poellot]

We have the same problem of not igniting and smoking on many units over time. Every time i have found a cracked burner gasket. I put in a new gasket and it works like new again. When the gasket leaks it make the fuel mix way to rich. Eventually to rich to fire. The burner gasket is always the first thing to always look at while taking it apart.

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for the info Colin.

[@poellot]

@@AdventureRig your welcome. The first time i had to diagnose this issue it cost a lot of time and money. We use all eberspacher, but same basic design. None of the diagnostic info i could find mentioned the gasket. The first one i successful fixed this issue was after i had cleaned with kerosene per manufactures recommendations. Then replaced glow plug screen, still no. Glow plug, still no. Fuel pump, still no. I tore it down to inspect. Its not unusual to find broken gaskets upon dissasembly of many things, so i never thought about it. I cleaned and inspected, nothing looked wrong. Put it together with new gaskets and it worked. So the next time we had one doing this i thought of the gasket. Pulled it apart, yup in 3 pieces. Put in a new one without hesitation put it back together, works good again. We get anywhere from 3 to 15 years of service from them before needing another gasket.

[@AdventureRig]

colin poellot That’s great info and I appreciate you sharing.

[@erinsonduran6663]

Just got a new one from ebay and im not getting power to the controller. Checked fuse and I'm getting 12v to the ecu but no voltage to the controller? What else can i Check

[@AdventureRig]

I’m not sure but their website says not to buy them off eBay because they are a counterfeit product.

[@Jason-bd5iq]

I saw people mentioning kerosene but it seems to be three times the price and then you need to add ATF, 2 stoke oil or diesel to it to lube the pump. Kind of defeats the purpose. Also I’m kind of lazy so I’d recommend spraying some brakleen or some other solvent in the air intake while it’s off and just let it drain out the exhaust. It won’t be as clean as taking it apart but it’ll be enough to get it going again. I’ve had O2 sensors work for another year with just a little brakleen. Can is only a couple bucks and great for so much more than breaks.

[@AdventureRig]

Jason Thanks for watching Jason.

[@frenchkulot778]

Hi. Thanks for your video, it's very useful. I just installed my heater (2d) in my van, and because it's not really cold outside I was running it low. I had set it on minimum temperature and I was wondering why it kept running all night long instead of turning back on once in a while to maintain the temperature. I figured it won't coz that's just not how these heaters work. Anyway that's why I found your video and I'm glad I did. Hopefully I won't have to clean it the way you did. I guess I will just turn it off during the night. It's quite noisy anyway, don't you think? Enjoy your trips. Tom from France.

[@AdventureRig]

Hi Tom, thank you for watching. I think it's okay to run the heater on low but before turning it off run it on the highest setting for 5 minutes to burn all the soot out. I also switched to kerosene at my elevation (10,000 feet) and between doing that and running it on high I have not had a problem. I don't have too much issue with noise. The only thing I find slightly annoying is the ticking of the fuel pump. No matter where or how it's mounted I can always hear it ticking while trying to fall asleep. But I kind of like the white noise of the heater.

[@MrBugsier5]

on what altitude do you use it? these planars dont have a high altitude pump , so the lack off air in high altitudes also will not help (you can thry to shorten the burn air flex hose to make it breath a bit better... The webasto,s always had a high altitude option (smaller pump) (btw, its also advisable to clean out the burner chamber itsef (the part where the igniter is in, sudd will also form in there< so better is to take it further apart then you did in the video. )

[@AdventureRig]

I run it at 10,000 feet. I've told Planar they need to have a high altitude pump as an option.

[@johnwright6090]

Nice, informative video....thanks. I finally pulled the plug and purchased one. Do you know how many oz. of fuel this thing uses per hour?

[@AdventureRig]

John Wright It will depend on the setting you’re running it on and how cold it is outside. With the 2 gallon tank I can usually run it anywhere from 24 hours to 72 hours.

[@thevacuumtubejunky9774]

I used to have an old "VW THING" can't remember what year the car was, 70,71,72???? I was a Junior in high school but the heater was a gas operated deal mounted in the front trunk/ dash and had a tickler coil and miniature spark plug in the body of the heater and the exhaust terminating by the left door hinge quarter panel by factory design. That sucker got the driver passenger compartment friggen hot. Didn't know until many many years later, the model year of the VW only outfitted those cars with the gas heater for 1 year, apparently that particular model of the THING was a rare and highly sought after by collectors and being a teen not knowing any better of course, you guessed it...."SOLD IT" for minimal dollars...lol

[@AdventureRig]

There was a guy I went to highschool with that had a green one. Very cool car!

[@thevacuumtubejunky9774]

@@AdventureRig : Thanks for the reply, yes they were a cool car, it had a lot of ground clearance from the factory, without modifications it was a cool weekend outdoor trail explorer when farting around going camping, shooting etc...never got stuck anyways. Since I saw your video and the more I think about it, starting to piss me off that I sold it.....Damn it...lol. Thanks for sharing!

[@AdventureRig]

The Vacuum tube junky Haha that’s how it goes I suppose.

[@jimsarranadventures3005]

Running the heater on kerosene or paraffin occasionally, seems to keep the combustion chamber free from soot.

[@AdventureRig]

Yes it's a big help.

[@jamest.5001]

I have been looking into these heaters . for heating my offgrid house. I can use wood when its really cold. Like Dec. and jan. I have solar power and looking for something very effiecent.. Do you have a link to where to buy these??

[@AdventureRig]

I went directly through them www.planarheaters.com.

[@101perspective]

Will running it on high every 12 hours also compensate for using it at high altitude without any other high altitude attachment/adjustment?

[@AdventureRig]

101perspective Yes that would help a lot.

[@bryantroll3499]

Hey, thanks for all the info on the Planar 44D -- not as much info out there as I hoped there would but your videos are a great resource. Could you tell me how you like the manual temperature adjustment? Are you able to find a sweet spot where it will maintain a comfortable temperature long-term without requiring adjustment? I don't want to have to run over and turn the unit on/off all the time and I also will have my dog in my RV without me sometimes and need to ensure he has a comfortable temperature inside. (I will also have a temperature monitoring system that will alert me to any issues). Other question -- have you used this heater at altitude? They don't sell a high altitude kit for it but some have reported it seems to work fine in its original configuration. Others have used a pinch clamp to slightly pinch the fuel hose. I do plan to use this regularly between 5,000 and 10,000 ft above sea level so just want to make sure it will work reliably for me. I was looking at the Espar D4 and if thats the right solution for me then thats ok and I will spend the extra money, but if the Planar will do a good reliable job I'd love to save the money by getting this instead! Thanks for the help, appreciate it.

[@AdventureRig]

Hi Bryan. Thanks for watching the videos. I use the manual temp setting quite often and find it works great. You will have to find the setting that works for you and your rig depending on outside conditions. But I've found it's not difficult to dial in a temp. You can also set it to regulate the temperature if you wish and it will turn on and off as needed. The fan stays on but it does not constantly burn fuel. I live at 8,500' and regularly ski Colorado and Utah/Wyoming resorts so most of the use is between 5,000' - 10,000'. I wish it had a high altitude kit as I think that would help with the heater sooting up. I have since switched to using kerosene and that has fixed the problem if you are running it at a low heat setting. What are you using to monitor the temp remotely? I also have a dog that stays in the camper when we are out skiing.

[@stevencampbell1603]

I got me one of the cheap versions of this heater and intentionally got one with the simple dial controller, on low it's still burning fuel, only time it blows air without burning is on shutdown. Thinking about adding diesel kleen to the fuel.

[@AdventureRig]

Yeah you could definitely try that. Or kerosene.

[@chilman6461]

Hi so am I better getting 2 kw than a 5 kw for a small van so it's at full power for longer

[@AdventureRig]

2KW

[@ytuberam7433]

Do they build this brand heater in a regular gas burning version? Wonder if regular gas would run cleaner? Think it likely would. Diesel does give more BTU efficiency but have to run at optimum temperature to minimize soot build-up.

[@AdventureRig]

I do not think they make it in a gasoline version.

[@Johnkels100]

I have 2kw planer it has never worked properly control knob fault huge amounts of smoke due to partially blocked silencer my fault exhaust sealing gum in it . and aiways needs to be primed four times before starting I have sent it back and am told it is all ok but still needs priming there are not any fuel leaks but the fuel pipes has air it it after it is stood overnight. Are the pumps piston type so not letting fuel past back to the tank. I suspect it is syphoning back to the tank. but sure the tank is higher then the unit only just but higher.

[@AdventureRig]

The tank is suppose to be the highest component in the system. After the tank the fuel pump should be higher than the heater or at the same level. My pump is mounted at the same level as the heater and it is slightly lower than the tank. I have a video of the install.

[@Johnkels100]

@@AdventureRig I can not find any mention of this in there literature in fact they say connection to a existing fuel tank in the case of vehicles here and camper vans they are normally at the lowest point. Thanks for your comment kzbin.info/www/bejne/jX64f6OHorZ2b6s

[@AdventureRig]

@@Johnkels100 try checking out their website.. they should have instructions that you can download for each heater. The fuel pickup should be at the same level or higher than the fuel pump.

[@raymondj8768]

do u have the fuel pump outlet pointing up about 15 deg. i think that helps .

[@raymondj8768]

i think it was so the fuel dont drain back and get air in it . i seen it on a few vids thats why i mentiond it incase you have a problem . :)

[@simon.annies]

Hi, thanks for the guide! I just did this, put everything back together, and now the heater sometimes emitts a loud humming/roaring noise which was not there before. It is not the fan (which turns freely) also the humming comes on and off apruptly, while the fan keeps turning at the same speed. Also there is quite a bit of virbation. Has anyone had that or has an Idea what could be the problem?

[@AdventureRig]

I've not heard of that.

[@TheRagondins]

Hey dude, did you solve your issue ? I have the same roaring noise.. :o

[@AdventureRig]

@@TheRagondins Yeah this took care of it.

[@NetisAmarok]

Does the exhaust smell? I need to know that because I'm planning to Install one of these heaters in my caravan and I don't think the owner of the campingside I am likes if it produces a bad diesel smell.

[@AdventureRig]

Robin Kegel There is a smell but I never thought it was bad. I didn’t notice it until someone else asked that question and I actually paid attention to it.

[@bettabgood]

Excellent video, have you thought about getting a smaller unit so that you don't have to run on the lower setting?

[@AdventureRig]

No, only because at night when we're not sleeping we will run it on high and use it to it's full capacity. But once we go to bed and have the covers on us we turn it down.

[@tobywan12]

Sorry for sounding daft but why do you need a HEATER that puts out 1 or 2 degrees.... Kinda defeats the object of a heater?

[@AdventureRig]

I’ll fire up the heater when it’s 10 degrees outside. It’ll warm it up to 80 degrees in the camper. Once it’s 80 the heater just holds that temp which means it runs on low.

[@totalcomposites484]

I love mine. You are right, they need to run hot to avoid soot build up. Like a regular diesel engine.

[@AdventureRig]

Glad you love it! I couldn't imagine not having one in the dead of winter.

[@andreastornesel8404]

did this solve the problem? did you experice sot build up again? i'm installing a 2D in my boat, and i think, based on your experiance that i will end each heating cykle on full sting. thanks for the video. best regards Andreas from Sweden

[@AdventureRig]

Hi Andreas. Since I have been running the heater on HIGH for a few minutes before shutting it down I have not had any problems. I would recommend running it on HIGH to avoid the soot buildup while running on lower settings.

[@andreastornesel8404]

Adventure Rig thank's alot for the info, I will keep your recommendation in mind.

[@michaelcastro5339]

There is probably a much easier way to deal with this, by simply putting a kill switch on the unit when you don't want it running instead of running it at the low setting and not burning the fuel properly in the chamber then burning the leftovers at the end of each day, can't create gunk if it's not running at all.

[@tedmrt]

How did the heater work after your cleaning. I just pulled mine out of my boat. It was acting like you described.

[@AdventureRig]

Ted Orr Hi Ted. It returned to normal and worked like new after I cleaned it up.

[@tedmrt]

@@AdventureRig Did you replace any parts? I've had mine for 1 1/2 years - still under warranty but I'm not sending it to Russia.

[@AdventureRig]

@@tedmrt I did not have to replace any parts. You can use the North American dealer in Canada. They are great to deal with but they are at the Seattle boat show currently so have been slow to respond to emails.

[@tedmrt]

@@AdventureRig Thank you!

[@AdventureRig]

Ted Orr you bet thanks for watching.

[@gpo746]

Thanks very informative . I will surely remember that I have to ramp it up a short while before shutdown. No disrespect meant at all but you really have the Earl Hicky look to ya. It looks kinda cool . As I say...no disrespect meant

[@AdventureRig]

Haha yeah every year we do a ski trip and I make sure to come back with a mustache. Thanks for watching!

[@LambySRI]

Simple solution, go in the settings, and change the minium fuel, with the absolute minimum fan speed. This keeps the unit it's self up to temp, while only extracting a low amount of heat. Low and slow, but no soot.

[@AdventureRig]

What controller do you have? I don't have any of those settings.

[@LambySRI]

@@AdventureRig lcd touchscreen.

[@AdventureRig]

@@LambySRI Will you provide a link? I don't see it on their website as an option.

[@akleviathaniii634]

Had same problem! Cleaned it up myself and i was also told to make it run at full power for at least 10-15minutes....

[@AdventureRig]

AK Leviathan III Thanks for watching!

[@3dmixer552]

this happens to webasto as well. I clean mine out after every cold season. If you maintain them they will last for a long time

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for letting me know! I've not had anything else and I've been curious about that.

[@Mrleslie007]

Are you still running the planar heater, is this the Russian version. I'm thinking of using the wet version on the boat. How have you found the reliability of the heater.

[@AdventureRig]

I just used it last night. It's been working great after switching over to Kerosene. They also make a high altitude kit now I believe and I think they would solve this issue running it on diesel.

[@Mrleslie007]

How long have you been using this heater now

[@AdventureRig]

@@Mrleslie007 I've been using this one for 3 years and the last one was 2 years.

[@Mrleslie007]

@@AdventureRig did the last one only last for 2 years doesn't seem long

[@AdventureRig]

@@Mrleslie007 No I sold the camper and it stayed with it.

[@Guitar-Med]

Good job, It's nice to know about when mine will go bad

[@AdventureRig]

Guitar Power Thanks for watching GP!

[@lightshow10]

Ok. After having it for so long now. Have you ever noticed a sort of build up on your windows on the inside? Not a water vapor build up. But a kind of greasy build up. It’s hard to describe. It’s a film that seams to collect on the interior of the windows that at night time produces a glare. It’s like a kind of haze. I am experiencing that now. I can’t smell anything. Can’t see anything. But after running the heater for a few days for say 8 hours a day. I notice a film building on the windows. I clean them with windex and found it only has the film after running the heater. Thoughts?

[@AdventureRig]

The only time I've heard of that is in vehicles. The plastic components like the dashboard can heat up from the sun and actually off-gas. These molecules can show up as a film on the windshield. I've never seen it in a camper.

[@lightshow10]

That’s really interesting. Because I’ve never had that problem before. But I can see that it could be possible. Altho I didn’t think the heater was getting anything that hot. It is a good place to look. Thank you.

[@Lucentlens]

Is the heater installed on its side? (If you still care - two years on!)

[@AndTheCorrectAnswerIs]

I'm wondering if it might be smart to buy a lower capacity unit so that you can run it on high all the time. I've seen these heaters from 2KW to 5KW capacity and the cost is not that different. How many people just buy the bigger ones thinking they can just run it on low?

[@AdventureRig]

AndTheCorrectAnswerIs That may not be a bad idea. I think you would save on fuel doing something like that versus running this on high and opening windows.

[@gregm.846]

Every maker of this style heater tells you that selection of the proper size is imperative. Sure Marine in Seattle, one of the largest boat heater sellers, also insists on doing the sizing for this very reason.

[@AdventureRig]

The hard part is this particular heater is sized for the camper. But if it's 50 outside you need to run it on a different heat setting vs if it's 5 outside. When it gets warmer outside that's when you need to take into account what setting your running the heater on.

[@MountainParameters]

Yes, that is the way to go. Also the note about Kerosene is also good, even if not at altitude, run kero on a regular basis. One other thing I learnt, when you do have white smoke pouring out, force air into the air intake with a blower fan like the type you use to inflate air mattresses. This helps clear out the excess fuel, gets convection going through the system, and introduces the extra O2 required to prime fuel ignition. Another common problem subsequent to the soot problem, your muffler may also be badly sooted, and that means it creates backpressure that defeats the critical airflow through the ignition chamber. I had much better luck by just getting rid of the muffler.

[@mikeries8549]

I think another problem is the thing vents from the bottom. If I owned one I'd experiment on the "chimney". At least get it where the top of the chimney is above the height of the unit. Getting it to vent downwards can't be efficient.

[@fvingerhoed]

nice edit. i am getting mine next week..

[@AdventureRig]

Great!

[@GURVINDER1047]

This is so helpful ,thanks for the video

[@AdventureRig]

Gurvinder Chahal Thanks for watching!

[@AdventureRig]

NPCs Can’t Laugh It may be worth a try but I’m not sure those cleaners would clean the burn chamber. That really needs heat to get it clean I think.

[@scottybell2060]

How long should I run it on high? Like every 12 hr do 5 min on high or what?

[@AdventureRig]

Scotty Bell I would run it for 15 minutes on high every 12 hours.

[@CanadianNortherner-i8g]

I've heard people say to run it on high every time you shut the unit off .

[@AdventureRig]

GMT Yes that’s what I would do. I assume the person who asked about running it on high every 12 hours was never shutting it off. In that case I’d run it on high every 12 hours for 15 minutes to keep it clean.

[@scottybell2060]

Hey so I'll actually be using this in a work vehicle that does a lot of service calls. I am basically using it in place of the manufacturers heater.

[@CanadianNortherner-i8g]

@@scottybell2060 Ha ha same here , it'll keep the van and tools warm !

[@chefdoomharrison458]

Thanks man. Hope I can not have issues now. 👍👍👍🤙

[@AdventureRig]

ChefDoom Harrison Thanks for watching Harrison.

[@RandomsFandom]

the soot comes from the dye in the offoad diesel. use the clearest diesel you can find

[@AdventureRig]

I've never run off road diesel, only clear.

[@paulmaxwell8851]

That is just plain WRONG.

[@gregyohngy]

Random Fandom, soot comes from carbon. There is soot when using diesel fuel and it is not dyed! You have seen the black smoke leaving a diesel truck, right? That does not happen when using 100% biodiesel.

[@enquire422]

Oven Cleaner works wonders on carbon build up!

[@AdventureRig]

Good idea!! Thanks for watching.

[@Samuel10463]

What if you run it on kerosene? Will it give same problem, or it will burn cleaner?

[@AdventureRig]

agent 404 Kerosene will burner cleaner and since switching I have not had the problem return.

[@obrianmcc]

@@AdventureRig Straight kerosene isn't good for the fuel pump. the pump depends on the diesel oil for lubrication. Mixing a solution of kerosene and diesel is recommended

[@scottmartinetti4875]

Curious... Were you guys in Nashville last week? Saw someone who looked like you at the cracker barrel

[@AdventureRig]

Scott Martinetti No not us

[@AtlasReburdened]

You might try just spraying a bit of seafoam into the intake every now and then when it's running.

[@AdventureRig]

Ok thanks. May give that a try.

[@H2OTOYS-90]

Seafoam success is questionable as the heater doesn't have a high compression chamber.

[@AtlasReburdened]

+Kevin Burkett That's a good point. I was just leaning on the fact that it's a good solvent for carbon compounds at high temps but it definitely might need to have that extra pressure to not just flash off.

[@davidrhightower]

Just put it into fuel

[@dougpeterson2477]

are you able to get parts for these heaters ???

[@AdventureRig]

Doug Peterson I've never had an issue going through Sergey in British Columbia. The only piece I've had go bad was a fuel pump on our old one.

[@mrfingers4737]

@@AdventureRig that's where I got mine. Never had an issue. It has run for about 30 months 24/7 usually on the lower settings.

[@AdventureRig]

@@mrfingers4737 Great to hear! Are you running straight diesel?

[@mrfingers4737]

@@AdventureRig that's it. My only problem has been a little dirt in my tank.

[@AdventureRig]

@@mrfingers4737 Do you run it on high much?

[@DonegalOverlanding]

We created a video showing how to install the 2kW Planar into an outdoor case so its portable. Its on our channel. What do you think?

[@AdventureRig]

That sounds like a cool idea.

[@DonegalOverlanding]

@@AdventureRig did you have a look at the video? Have you tried a Chinese branded heater yet?

[@AdventureRig]

I have not tried any Chinese heaters.

[@simonandrewcrane]

How much fuel does it use? I know it's not a simple question to answer as it's usage & the heat setting changes. I currently have a gas heater (LPG) & it would be interesting to compare the running cost of with a diesel heater, they seem very popular.

[@AdventureRig]

The tank is around 1.8 gallons and if it is sunny and in the low 30's during the day and mid teens at night ours will run for 3 days on the 1.8 gallons. The heat it puts out is nothing like the LPG heater. It is crazy hot as well as dry keeping the humidity level in control during the winter months.

[@simonandrewcrane]

Adventure Rig Ok, thanks gives me a rough idea. Interesting to see inside one by the way. Looks fairly simple which is good.

[@AdventureRig]

Yeah not much to it.

[@georgekusz4221]

Thanks for this info, have I seen it two month earlier wouldn't have to buy the second heater, and thanks to Greg M for your instruction. That was I doing wrong, running for two months on half heat. Cheers guys.

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for watching George.

[@macroibin324]

great info vid, keep up the good work

[@AdventureRig]

Macroibin Thanks for watching!

[@frecou6275]

Hi Tyson Thanks for all the videos. I had the same sooting deal with my 8DM12 last season but I ran it on low (not knowing) way too long. This year I take it for high speed runs regular and it seems to be helping. I also am adding an additive for cold weather to stop gelling etc . I don't have the name right here but I can send it later. Sergey tells me once a month to run a quart of kerosene through on its own full blast, so I will be doing that too this year. I am up the coast of BC along way from his shop so I have to learn to keep er runnin...Sergey has been a great help. What I am really looking for tho is a way to have it come on (at any temp setting) a couple times in a 24 hour period on its own while I am away from the boat. Anyone got any ideas on that? Thanks again keep up the vids!

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for watching the videos and your insight. I agree, Sergey is helpful. I would love to see them come out with an app where you can run the heater off your phone.

[@gregm.846]

Hi...I think operating any combustible appliance unattended on a boat is risky at best. Thinks go wrong and nothing is full proof. When it comes to a Dickinson style heater or propane controls on a tank the consequences of even a small hiccup is not worth the risk. I would rather be cold and wait for heat than lose my boat. It's all about risk taking and what you can afford to lose.

[@AdventureRig]

Very good point Greg.

[@josephjackson5330]

I use egr cleaner in ever 8th time it's fill the fuel tank.

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for watching Joseph!

[@webhomemadeprojects1173]

Can u add def

[@AdventureRig]

Brad E. Wortman No

[@fredchris3509]

Why would you need a heater to run that low, I only use mine if it goes below -2. A jumper sufises until then.

[@AdventureRig]

If it's below 60 degrees the heater runs.

[@shanespicer6348]

Well done mate.

[@AdventureRig]

Thank you

[@MrRShoaf]

While I'm no combustion engineer, the big smoke seems to indicate too rich a mixture. Either more air or less fuel should help. Optimizing the lower temp mixture should eliminate the soot and smoke problem.

[@AdventureRig]

Roger Shoaf Hey Roger I think you’re on to something. I actually wrote an email to Planar asking about a high altitude fuel pump. Other companies have them but Planar does not offer it. I’m at 8,500 ft and I think the fuel/air mix is definitely off. I only run it on kerosene now and never heard from Planar on the pump.

[@hisab-n8c]

@@AdventureRig make the intake air house a bit shorter will lean air/fuel mixture and the problem with soot

[@AdventureRig]

@@hisab-n8c Worth a try thanks!

[@elimachmuller294]

Thank you Tyson with adventure . I have been a technician for quite some time . No matter what when gasoline or diesel comes in to my shop I put a minimum of 1 quart per 6 gallons of inexpensive automatic transmission fluid if you look at transmission fluid it's basically soap and light oil I recommend you mix it before you put it in your tank and I think that would work much better. In my opinion the buildup you had could also be helped by adding gasoline to your diesel 1 gallon per 6 gallons just a thought. Adding gasoline to your diesel is not a new thing it's been going on for quite sometime cold-weather dirty Burn etc. etc.

[@AdventureRig]

Awesome thanks Eli I appreciate the comment.

[@MrjackieG]

You also need to pull & clean the glow plug and screen otherwise it still won't start.

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for a watching Jack.

[@neilsparks.4447]

How old is this heater?

[@AdventureRig]

Neil Rossiter In this video it had 40 hours on it.

[@izzimichaels2892]

i think we have the same barber, and thanks for the info!

[@AdventureRig]

Haha thanks for watching.

[@joeladams6566]

Thank you for sharing

[@AdventureRig]

You bet, thanks for watching Joel.

[@lutrac66]

GOOD presentation

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for watching!

[@sweepint]

That was a great video.

[@AdventureRig]

Sweepint sweepint Thank you for watching.

[@jeffcornelison888]

Damn good video!

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for watching and commenting!!

[@darkfalcon75]

it like my cat on my truck.. have to hit the regen. button.. rpm spike to clean my cat. vs buying a new one

[@AdventureRig]

Thanks for watching Anthony.

[@rc300xs]

I run mine on Jet-B or Jet-A. Much cleaner and is the same price as diesel.

[@AdventureRig]

That's a great idea.