Built-In Hot Water & Shower System FAQ |

[@Mark-ks9jj]

Another beautifully detailed and explained video - perfect for understanding the ins and outs of these systems thank you.

[@tobeycoon8019]

When is the installation video gonna be made?

[@overlandshower4312]

Once again, fantastic video! You are helping lots of people understand these concepts and I thank you for that sir! Cheers 🍻

[@4xAdventures]

Thanks very much! The heat exchanger is a great product, and as used in my configuration, works really well. All the best!! 😊👍

[@joeldobbinsmusic]

The demo setup of the water pump with all the electricals combined was really effective, I learnt a lot. You have a great way of simplifying things and making projects achievable for anyone keen to tryout. Loved the teleportation effect! The multiple camera setup was really seamless, on other channels it can seem disjointing but yours were ultra smooth and it only contributed to the overall experience. Well done, and nice website launch at the end there too!

[@4xAdventures]

Thanks very much! Yes, building things and modifying a 4WD is not all that difficult once you demystify things. Hopefully this will encourage people to try building things themselves. Thanks for watching, and for the nice comments! 😊👍

[@BrettHoustonTube]

Super cool video! Great design and presentation. Exceptional information! Thanks!

[@4xAdventures]

Thank you kindly! 😊👍

[@outbackdreamer6445]

Awesome effort mate with the tutorial. Im very tempted at having a go in my FJ.

[@4xAdventures]

Thank you! It’s not hard. I actually had the unopened box in the garage for 18 months before I finally plucked up the courage to do it, and it wasn’t that difficult. The most challenging part is working out where to mount the heat exchanger in the engine bay so that all the hoses route nicely, and *most importantly* your coolant hoses are done right, no kinks or rubbing against other parts and all connections are tight with no drips. If you get that right, the rest is really easy! Good luck!! 😊👍

[@skunkedagain]

By far, the absolute best video on KZbin. It takes time to do it right, and it’s appreciated. One question. Heat exchange system, there will be water in the heat exchanger that will get to the temperature of the glycol’s temperature (~180F) as I’m driving. Do you see a need for an expansion tank or pressure relief valve in the system? Thank you for your excellent video and help. Tim

[@Stinkys8050]

Dude, great video. I'm tempted to give this a shot.

[@4xAdventures]

Thanks very much!! It’s not difficult, just make sure you do a good job with the radiator hoses. 😊👍

[@craigleech4779]

Another awesome video, thanks so much for all of the valuable info 😊👌

[@4xAdventures]

Thankyou. 😊👍

[@peterwronski595]

Hi, You mentioned that there is an installation video coming. I cannot find it on your channel. Has this happened yet? I'm very interested in watching this and potentially giving it a go on my 79 Series. Thankyou, - Peter (Blue Mountains NSW)

[@4xAdventures]

G’day Peter, The video has not happened yet. I had a few opportunities fall through and so need to find another vehicle. I may have a 79 available soon, so I am hoping I can get this video done sometime in the near future.

[@davidrucci]

Hey Attila, can’t thank you enough for going through all this to make this video! 🙏🙌 Curious, do you recommend using the John Guest tubing even if under the hood in tight spaces? I guess what I mean is… I plan on doing this and fitting it all under the hood and I’m curious if I’m going to have enough routing space to be able to run the temper valve with the hot and the cold options? Or if I should maybe consider using something more flexible for tubing instead…? My plan is to make a bracket to hold the pump, the temper valve, and the heat exchanger and somehow route all of that tubing into them. I’m wondering if the John Guest tubing will be flexible enough or if I should consider using fuel line maybe… 😬

[@4xAdventures]

Hi David, When running anything through the engine bay, try to run locate the pump, temper valve and plumbing as far away from the hottest parts of the engine as possible. The JG plumbing is rated to 65C, however engine bays get hotter than that, so care should be used. I tend to wrap my plumbing in corrugated tubing for extra protection, and in some places, I also add radiator tubing around the outside just as a precaution. The JG tubing is flexible to be bent, but not sharp bends. Gentle curves are ok. For right angle bends, you can get right-angle push-fit connectors which allow you to really make the plumbing fit into pretty much anywhere. I’d stay away from using fuel lines. The JG tubing is food grade plastic, so you know your water is safe for drinking/cooking/showering at the other end. Hopefully that helps a bit. Best of luck with your build!! 😊👍

[@davidrucci]

@@4xAdventures got it! I really really appreciate the advice Attila. 🙏

[@davidrucci]

Welp Attila, 7 months later and I FINALLY have her built! 🙏🙌🫵👊. It’s a process. 😂 I still need or want to insulate the piping and 90° connectors I used so I’m planning on grabbing some radiator tubing and insulator tape for that. I have everything including the heat exchanger in the far rear corner of the engine bay so I’m not sure how hot it’s going to get. Curious how hot does your heat exchanger get? I’ve got those plastic JG 1/2 NPT to 3/8” fittings coming out of the water portion of the heat exchanger and wonder if it’ll cause an issue or not… 🤔 Don’t see why if the tubing can withstand the hot coolant heat exchange temps why the fittings shouldn’t be able to, but playing devils advocate I’m worried. I’m also using a different heat exchanger than you. Also, curious if you think a relay is necessary for the pump switch? Plan on running it to a 10 amp fuse but I had a friend recommend to use a relay too. What do you think? Sorry about the run on questions! Thanks for everything brother!

[@addo106]

Hi great video. Just wondering which of the heat exchangers from Glind I should buy? There’s one with John guest fittings. I plan on using John guest fittings but not sure if the heat exchanger should be plumbed in with high temperature hose instead?

[@4xAdventures]

Mine is the Glind marine heat exchanger. I’m using radiator hoses for the radiator plumbing, and 12mm John guest plumbing for the water side. The John Guest hoses are rated to about 65C, just make sure you keep it away from the engine. I’m routing my hoses around the perimeter of the engine bay. You can also get some straight radiator hoses and run the JG plumbing through that if you want some extra peace of mind. Mine has been running flawlessly for several years now. 😊👍

[@gregdayman6176]

You've definitely sold the idea to me mate! I had been looking at the Kickass gas hot water option, but as you said, I wasn't sure about how I was going to mount/store the unit and all the accessories it required. This system is A+ in my opinion 👌 What's it roughly cost to get all the parts to put it all together?

[@4xAdventures]

Thanks very much! It certainly has advantages over other systems, but everyone's needs are different, so it may not suite everyone. The overall price depends on the components you use. I've heard from people who found 2nd hand parts and made it for fairly cheap. But new, the prices are around the following: Heat Exchanger AU$320, Pump AU$140, Temper valve AU$90, and then the remainder of the plumbing, radiator hoses, taps etc. might be another AU$200 or so. So, all up, it's not necessarily cheaper than the typical gas powered units out there, but in many respects, it is much better, and well worth the investment in my opinion. All the best!!

[@bruceyyyyy]

Appreciate this video. Chapters would help find information on repeat watching. But thank you so much!

[@Theo-vs3mv]

Hey! Amazing video. Did you ever release the installation video that you reference in this video? Looking to install this in my own FJ :]

[@robertnunezsf]

Hi there again; finally gettting around to installing everything. I noticed it looks like you used 1/2 pex- do you think 3/8 would be to small? The pump i purchased has 3/8 in and out. Thanks !

[@skullQ8]

Very well informative and excellent setup through the heat exchanger, best mod so far 👍🏻 one question if you don’t mind , Does the heat exchanger delay the process of the cooling fluid coming of the engine circulation ? And if you could do a video on post pictures of the installation of heat exchanger that would be most helpful 🌹overall thank you for taking the time for reading my comment

[@4xAdventures]

Thanks very much! No, the heat exchanger does not impede upon the coolant flow at all. Heat Exchangers have been used in vehicles for over 30 years, and they are proven technology. I have just improved it with my tweaks. :)

[@gavinchapple825]

Love your videos mate! Any tips on improving fuel economy for an FJ?

[@4xAdventures]

Thanks very much! Well, the old FJ does have the aerodynamics of a brick. Going easy on the accelerator does help a bit, as does having correct tyre pressures, but that’s about it I think. I personally wouldn’t go messing with the ECU chip. 😊👍

[@davidrucci]

Hey Attila, can’t thank you enough for going through all this. Curious, as I was planning on mounting everything for mine under the hood, are the John

[@joseluisgarcia8623]

Love your Videos ..Question sir what kind of hose piece did u use on Glind heat exchanger 1/2 inch barb side.. & if you have a picture cant see it clearly plz ty..

[@Mr105.]

Top stuff 👍👍👍

[@4xAdventures]

😊👍

[@Mr105.]

@@4xAdventures You can fit mine, it turned up yesterday

[@the_wyatt]

So you have a link or product number for your showerhead quick disconnects.

[@BoomersEve]

Brilliant idea! Is there a install video for the heat exchanger? I couldn’t find it on your channel. I’m really interested in this set up. Im just curious how it connects to the engine. I also drive and FJ Cruiser, cheers!

[@4xAdventures]

G’day Mike, thanks very much! No install video yet, but I’ve been meaning to film one. Hopefully I’ll have the opportunity to do it soon. In the meantime, check out the FAQ video if you haven’t already. That may answer any questions you may have. 😊👍

[@anthonymarcello5653]

Genius!!

[@joshreardon6757]

Also just purchased a Glind heat exchanger to fit to my FJ Cruiser. When will you be uploading the FJ install??? I'm keen to have a go but have no idea where to plumb into the FJs cooling system haha. Love the videos mate keep up the good work

[@4xAdventures]

G’day Josh, Thanks very much!! There is an install in progress, with a video to follow, however this particular install is for a LandCruiser 79 series. The concept is the same though for all vehicles. Basically, locate the hot water hose that goes from the engine and enters the firewall. On the FJ, this hose enters the firewall on the right side of the engine as you are looking at the car from the front. Directly below that entrance point on the firewall, you will find the return hose, which goes over to the left side of the engine and back to the radiator. This is the hose you need to plumb the heat exchanger into - inline. The challenge is to find a suitable location to mount the heat exchanger, and to run the radiator hoses such that they aren’t kinked or rubbing on other components. Once the heat exchanger is mounted, drain your coolant before cutting/disconnecting your radiator hose, plumb in the heat exchanger, then add back the coolant, making sure you add extra coolant as you have just added a bit of liquid extra length to your radiator hoses. The rest of the plumbing is quite straightforward. Best of luck!! 😊👍

[@gwilensky]

Hi Attila! I am in the same boat as Josh, with a 2012 FJ Cruiser. I think I know what heater hose I need to cut to insert the heat exchanger. Thanks for the info. How did you mount yours? I noticed there are a couple of bolt holes on the left side of the engine block where you mounted yours. Not sure if I can adapt the Glind's bracket to use those to mount it. It would be very helpful and appreciated if you can post or send (I emailed you a few days ago if you prefer to use that medium) photos of how you mounted the heat exchanger and radiator hose configuration after installation. Thanks a lot! --Gabriel

[@Bergo101]

Amazing setup. Are you still using this or made any changes since these videos? I’d love to install this but don’t have the technical skills, seems a bit daunting to me personally 😅 Wish I could find someone to help me with it! Thanks for sharing

[@4xAdventures]

Thankyou! Yes I’m still using it. Still working great. It’s basically the same however I have added some switching so I can have a selection of inputs and routing of water to various locations (shower / to water tank via filter etc.).

[@brendanwelch3030]

Awesome video. Thanks for taking the time to make it. I've ordered a Glind and will hopefully install it soon. What happens to any remaining water in the line when your driving. Does it build up pressure?

[@4xAdventures]

Thanks very much! The pump is turned off when it’s not in use and any water that is left in the plumbing is not enough to increase the pressure to high levels. I am also using John Guest plumbing, which is rated for high temperatures abs pressures, so it’s all safe. ☺️👍

[@brendanwelch3030]

Perfect. That’s lot for taking the time to reply. 👍🏼 I’ll get started on the build ASAP.

[@4xAdventures]

Best of luck!! 😊👍

[@boondoggler9677]

This is by far the BEST hot water solution I have come across (and I have been doing extensive research for nearly a year). My question to you isn't really water related as it is an auto coolant system related. I don't believe the use of a heat exchanger is used widely in the United States, not even by long-term overlanders. A few of the mechanics I have spoke to have concerns about the effects of a heat exchanger on the "flow" of the coolant in the system; potentially introducing additional resistance to the flow and negatively impacting the coolant pump and the system's ability to actually cool the vehicle. This may be especially true for plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) that also uses the coolant to cool the large battery store. The other question I have is whether you have any opinions on the viability of injecting the heat exchanger on the front side of the engine (i.e. as the coolant returns to the radiator reservoir) compared to on the bypass into the heater core (some engine bay layout just may not have enough room to introducing a heater exchanger behind the engine ahead of the firewall. Thanks in advance!

[@4xAdventures]

Thanks very much! I’m not familiar with all types of heat exchanger, however the one that I am using has been around for a few decades and has been used in many thousands of vehicles. I believe they (or at least this one) has been designed to not restrict the flow in any way. The connectors are the same diameter as your radiator hoses, so there should be no noticeable effect to your engine. If you still have questions, you can always try emailing the manufacturer who might be able to give you a more satisfactory answer. Check out glind.com.au. All the best! 😊👍

[@nicolesymons8260]

Hi. Thanks for the video. Have the install videos been done? I can’t seem to find them

[@lukebrady3728]

Fantastic video and brilliant concept, but I've hit 1 major stumbling block. My 70 series cruiser is still under warranty, and Brighton Toyota have (after leaving in excess of 7 reminder calls to get back to me) told me that the engine warranty will be instantly void the minute I connect the Glind heat exchanger to the the coolant system. Very disappointed, to say the least, as the whole concept and its implementation is absolutely brilliant and simplistic

[@4xAdventures]

Thanks very much! Oh, that’s a shame. I’ve had mine installed for ~5 years and no issues. You may just need to wait until your warranty runs out. 🤷🏻‍♂️😊👍

[@ocram9690]

Hey again great video, we’re there any installation follow up videos? I heard you say there was a 70 series & FJ installation you were planning on doing. Just curious. Thanks

[@4xAdventures]

Not as yet. Circumstances changed and I never got the chance to make a follow up video.

[@ocram9690]

@@4xAdventures Either way great stuff. Thanks for the ideas. Not too many people plan as well as you do for convenience, space and efficiency.

[@4xAdventures]

Thank you kindly 😊👍

[@ivanbiscan1587]

Well done mate ...good informative video!

[@4xAdventures]

Thank you kind sir! 😊👍

[@terryoleary5424]

Very good Artie , I’ve got a very neat Fj cruiser you can use if you wish

[@4xAdventures]

G’day Terry. Thanks very much! Once I get the current batch of installs done, let me know if you’re still interested and we can work something out. 😊👍

[@markkent1256]

Hello mate love your channel very informative l have a similar system with a separate tank and pump digitally controlled due to its location it heats higher than required without the exchanger am working on mixing cold through temper valve wife needs temp about 30 deg the valve john guest one states adj 40 to 50 deg is this correct or can I adj lower Thanks in advance for any help Mark

[@4xAdventures]

G’day John, thanks very much! I don’t know the temperature range of the John Guest temper valve off the top of my head, but I do know you can adjust it from a nearly cold mix right up to very hot indeed. Any temper valve will work though. So if the one you are using doesn’t go low enough, it should be pretty straightforward to swap it for another one with the same fittings.

[@markkent1256]

Thanks Attila will install and test great work

[@whateveryoulike7629]

Hey mate, thanks for the video, great stuff!Have you got any idea how effective this system would be on a 2ltr biturbo? Cheers.

[@4xAdventures]

G’day! Thanks very much! Well, that’s a new question I haven’t had before! :) Actually, it should run really well. The system works on any internal combustion engine regardless of petrol or diesel. The principal remains the same. 😊👍

[@paulfeher4222]

Great video mate. When will the install video be up very keen to see the radiator and heat exchanger install bit Cheers

[@4xAdventures]

Thanks very much! We’re in lockdown at the moment here in a Sydney. No idea how long it will last. I’m hoping to get that video up in the next few months.

[@allanpower8041]

Good.idea. what's the cost if a heat exchanger?

[@4xAdventures]

Thankyou. You can get one here: 4xadventures.com.au and click on Shop. 😊👍

[@robertnunezsf]

thanks again- great video! One more question.... i'm concerned about the flow rate through the heat exchanger being to little to keep the flow of coolant going correctly. Seems like the exchangers are rated buy btu rates and not flow. any concerns about this? thanks again!

[@4xAdventures]

Thankyou. The heat exchanger is a passive device. It is nothing more than, essentially a long copper tube. It is plumbed in-line with your radiator hose. The diameter of the coolant side of the tube through the heat exchanger is the same as your radiator hose internal diameter, and therefore there is no obstruction or change in the coolant flow rate. The water side of the heat exchanger is smaller in diameter though, as marine water plumbing tends to be 10-12mm diameter. I have been using this in my vehicle for a few years now and can report that there is no change in the coolant temperature etc. (I’m using an OBD scanner to monitor this). I can’t of course comment on other brands of heat exchanger, however the one I am using is excellent. All the best! 😊👍

[@robertnunezsf]

thanks!

[@Maedetto]

Hey great video! I wanted to ask… How do you manage cross-contamination with river water?

[@4xAdventures]

Thankyou! I have a non-return valve (I.e. a one-way valve) between the two. I also have a water filter before the water tank so any water that ends up in the tank has passed through the filter. 😊👍

[@Maedetto]

Thanks for the reply! Between the 2 what sorry?

[@4xAdventures]

Oops - that was a typo. Between the tank and external water source.

[@Maedetto]

Hahah all good mate. What filter do you specifically use? Thanks@@4xAdventures

[@4xAdventures]

@Maedetto it’s just one of these: water-filter-sentry.com.au/products/caravan-water-filters-in-line-inline-portable-carbon-filters-4x-hose-connector?variant=16280096866370&currency=AUD&gad=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwsp6pBhCfARIsAD3GZuZlnXj4XIjCCdnIM-daaSXJHbl6caUTNsGb7k3NiL5Ily8mwMpOQbkaAjgTEALw_wcB If I had more space, I would have used a UV filter as well.

[@franklindmurphy]

Hello 4xA! I'm trying to put this system together for my boat but I'm trying to buy the fittings from john guest. Did you use 10 mm tubing? What size tubing? And did you buy all the fittings and tubing from john guest and their website? Trying to source the parts from the USA.

[@4xAdventures]

Hi Franklin. Yes, I used the red & blue 10mm tubing from John Guest. I purchased it through a local reseller here in Australia. As far as I know, John Guest no longer makes the temper valve, so you will need to source that from elsewhere, but all the other plumbing components are available from their website. Good luck! 🙂👍

[@franklindmurphy]

@@4xAdventures thanks so much. I was wondering if you bought the red and blue from them or if you used PEX. Thanks man for the reply.

[@insaynbcr]

@@franklindmurphy Franklin, did you ever source the 10mm Red and Blue hose as well as the temperture mixer with the 10mm push fittings in the USA? I'm looking to start putting this same system together in my Tacoma. Cheers!

[@4xAdventures]

Yes, the details are in the description. You can get it either directly from John Guest (johnguest.com) or from Amazon. You might be able to find a local RV or marine supply store that also stocks it. Best of luck with the build! 😊👍

[@nicknick7052]

I liked the idea of the minimal quantity of water used and I am building up the same system but I have issues with the temper valve. 9:55 not for me; the temperature changes according the flow and stabilize when the flow is stabilized. I found that most of the temper valves work properly when the flow is at least 4l/min. If not the water is too cold or too hot. Anyone else had the same problem?

[@boofy081965]

Gday when will the installation video follow ?

[@markkent1256]

Hi again Atilla spoke a few months ago regarding adding a temper valve to my onboard shower system my system is different than yours using two tanks hot and cold using two pumps. after adding the temper valve I get no output of water. will the temper valve output any water if water is not hot enough my temper valve is two meters from hot tank meaning there may be cold water in the line any ideas greatly appreciated Mark

[@4xAdventures]

Hi Mark, the temper valve will output water. It’s job is to stop water being too hot, so it will definitely output water that is cooler. Are your pumps automatic pressure sending pumps? I’ve tried the temper valve with a regular pump and it doesn’t generate enough pressure. A pressure sending pump will do the trick.

[@markkent1256]

@@4xAdventures Thanks Artilla thank you found a faulty connector now getting warm water output don't think hot tank was hot enough now need to adjust temper valve any tricks Regards Mark

[@Bumblebee5229-s1s]

Hello Artie thankyou .

[@4xAdventures]

Hi Suzy, I always appreciate your comments 😊

[@Bumblebee5229-s1s]

@@4xAdventures I Just ordered off your site . O if you need another FJ to work on, you know where to find me take care.

[@4xAdventures]

Yes, I noticed. Thank you so very much for your support!! ☺️☺️

[@daynequayle255]

Hey mate, awesome video, watched the previous video, this is a great follow up! Just a question, what sort of on board water tank system do you run on your FJ, when you don't have access to external water sources? Keep the videos coming, great content!

[@4xAdventures]

G’day Dayne, Thanks very much! If you check out the FJ build video, there’s a shot of it in there. Basically I have a 22L jerry can built in behind the drivers seat where I had some unused space. Thanks very much for watching!! 😊👍

[@daynequayle255]

@@4xAdventures Awesome, thanks for the heads up. Am looking at trying to get a built in system behind the seats, but can't find anything 'off the shelf'..a jerrycan sounds like a goer!

[@4xAdventures]

I’ve tried several options. There’s a 40L rank by Boab which supposedly fits in the rear footwells and arches over the hump in the floor, but it didn’t fit on my FJ. So I’m using a jerry can holder which is bolted down. You can see a bit of it the the build video. 😊👍

[@daisy9152]

Also no good if you cant shower at the vehicle or the vehicle is not warmed up.

[@4xAdventures]

Yes. Just like everything, it has its pros & cons. 😊👍