Mercedes Mullins
When installing a fuel tank for an Eberspacher heater, there are a few options for placement. Some people choose to install the heater and fuel tank under the van, either at the rear or towards the front, taking into account the length of the fuel pipe and potential obstacles like the fuel pump or exhaust. Others opt for mounting the heater and fuel tank inside the van, either under the driver or passenger seat, with considerations given to fuel line access and ventilation. In some cases, people have installed the Eberspacher heater and fuel tank in the engine bay for protection and insulation. The exact location will depend on the specific vehicle and the owner's preferences, with factors such as pipe length, ventilation, and ease of access playing a role in the decision.
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What You'll Learn
Installing an Eberspacher D2 night heater
Planning and Preparation:
Before beginning the installation, it is important to research and plan the process. Some users have recommended purchasing a complete kit that includes all the necessary components, such as ducting, silencers, and fuel tanks, to simplify the installation. It is also important to review the specifications of different heater models and choose one that suits your needs and budget.
Fuel Tank Installation:
The fuel tank installation process can vary depending on your vehicle and specific requirements. Here are some key considerations and steps:
- Fuel Line Access: Decide how you will access the fuel line. Some users have recommended tapping into the fuel line of a coolant heater if one is already installed. Alternatively, you cannot use a high-pressure fuel line; you must use a standpipe on any vehicle with an intank pump, but this may be challenging to install.
- Fuel Line Connection: When connecting to the fuel line, avoid high-pressure fuel lines. Some users have recommended inserting a 'T' piece into the fuel line between the fuel tank and the fuel filter. However, this method may require additional modifications to prevent fuel starvation and airlocks.
- Fuel Tank Pickup Pipe: Ensure the pickup pipe is installed correctly. The pipe should be bent upwards at the bottom to ensure proper fuel pickup, and its length should be considered in relation to the main fuel pickup pipe to avoid sucking the tank dry.
- Fuel Tank Location: Choose a suitable location for the fuel tank. Consider the length of the fuel line and any potential obstructions. Some users have installed the tank under the van's passenger side or in the engine bay near the bulkhead and gearbox.
- Fuel Tank Mounting: Secure the fuel tank in place using appropriate mounting hardware, such as rivnuts and brackets. Consider using heat protection materials, such as heat protection mats, to shield the tank from nearby heat sources.
- Fuel Tank Cover: Reinstall the fuel tank access cover and any other panels that were removed during the installation process. Ensure that all rivets and nuts are securely fastened.
Heater Unit Installation:
- Mounting Hole: Determine the location for the heater unit by marking out the holes for the air intake, exhaust, and fuel feed. Consider any limitations imposed by the vehicle's chassis or structure.
- Exhaust Installation: Install the exhaust, ensuring it is pointed downwards with a clearance hole cut in the plastic panel. Drill a hole for the rivnut as needed. Consider adding an upwards loop in the exhaust and drilling a hole at the lowest point to allow for condensation drainage.
- Inlet Installation: Install the inlet above the heater, pointing towards the rear of the vehicle.
- Fuel Pickup Line: Test the heater unit and bleed the fuel lines before final installation. Consider using a dedicated diesel tank for the Eberspacher D2 heater, which offers the advantage of potentially using red diesel.
- Unit Placement: Place the heater unit in the desired location, ensuring it is secure and does not obstruct other vehicle components.
- Final Connections: Connect the fuel line, exhaust, and air intake to the heater unit. Ensure all connections are secure and sealed to prevent leaks.
It is important to note that these steps are based on the experiences of individual users and may not cover all the specific requirements for your vehicle or heater model. Always refer to official installation manuals, seek professional advice, and follow safety precautions when performing any vehicle modifications.
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Mounting the heater under the van
When mounting the heater under the van, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the location of the heater should not be impeded by the fuel pump or too close to the exhaust. The angle of the pipe also makes a difference in performance. It is also important to consider the length of the fuel line; a shorter pick-up pipe may cause the tank to run dry.
One option for mounting the heater under the van is to place it under the driver's seat and vent it through the floor or the buddy seat support. This location can help to reduce noise, as the soft hum of the heater may be muffled when transmitted through the floor. Additionally, this location keeps the heater out of the way and provides easy access for maintenance.
Another option is to mount the heater under the passenger side of the van, just in front of the tank. The fuel pipe can then be routed under the van to the driver's side, where the heater is fitted under the front seat. This setup has been known to work without issues.
If you are looking for the standard location for the heater, it is typically mounted behind the fuel tank on the driver's side. This location may be lowered from the factory, so it might be a bit of a squeeze to get underneath.
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Mounting the heater under the driver's seat
When mounting an Eberspacher heater under the driver's seat of a VW T4, there are a few key considerations and steps to follow. Firstly, it is important to ensure that there is sufficient clearance between the floor pan and the fuel tank to accommodate the heater unit. This includes allowing for the exhaust pipe, inlet pipe, and fuel pipe. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the fuel tank to fit the pipes properly.
To begin the installation process, you should start by taking careful measurements. Measure 29cm to 35cm from the handbrake bracket towards the door, and then from the ledge of the floor at the back of the driver's seat, measure from 25cm to 36cm. These measurements will ensure that you do not drill into the fuel tank accidentally. Set your drill or jigsaw to a maximum depth of 2 inches to avoid puncturing the tank.
Once you have marked the correct position, you can cut a hole in the floor. It is important to note that you should not drill holes in the floor without first taking these precise measurements, as there is a risk of puncturing the fuel tank. After cutting the hole, you can fix and seal the mounting plate to the van floor. The gasket will then be used to seal the heater to the mounting plate.
When it comes to the fuel supply, some people have inserted a 'T' piece into the fuel line running from the fuel tank to the fuel filter. However, this may cause issues with fuel starvation. Another option is to tap into the fuel line from the tank to the fuel filter, as done by A B Butt of Leicester. Alternatively, the Eberspacher heater has its own 12-volt inline fuel supply pump and its own pick-up pipe in the fuel tank.
Regarding the pump location, it can be placed under the van on the passenger side, just in front of the tank, with the fuel pipe routed under the van to the driver's side. The angle of the pipe makes a difference in performance. It is also important to consider the wiring harness to the pump, which may require drilling a hole in the floor.
Finally, when mounting the heater, keep in mind that Eberspachers are designed to be fitted to a vehicle skin that is outside the vehicle on one side and inside on the other. They can be mounted in most orientations as long as the long axis is horizontal. However, they should not be fitted inside the seat base, as there is not enough room for the pipes and exhaust.
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Tapping into the fuel line
If you do decide to tap into the fuel line, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to ensure that you don't compromise the engine fuel supply. You should also use a "'T' piece" to tap into the fuel line, inserting it into the fuel line between the fuel tank and the fuel filter. It's recommended to insert the "T" piece about 5cm from the filter. Additionally, you may need to bend the bottom of the pickup pipe upwards by about 2 inches to ensure that the heater can pick up diesel when the tank is less than full.
Some users have also recommended fitting a non-return valve or a stop cock to the "T" piece to prevent fuel starvation and allow for servicing. Others have suggested using a plastic fuel line, as it has a small bore, which helps with bleeding, but this is not recommended by everyone. It's also important to ensure that the heater takeoff is higher than the engine feed to ensure that there is fuel to get you home even if the heater runs out.
Finally, one user on the YBW Forum recommends using a syringe to pre-fill the fuel line to prevent issues with the heater firing up. They also suggest putting a small plastic inline filter in the fuel line to trap any air and allow you to see that the heater has fuel.
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Fitting a 'T' piece into the engine fuel supply
Fitting a T-piece into the engine fuel supply is a common method for obtaining the fuel supply for an Eberspacher heater. This method involves inserting a T-piece into the fuel line that runs from the fuel tank to the fuel filter. The T-piece is usually inserted close to the fuel tank or about 5 cm from the fuel filter.
It is important to note that some issues may arise when using this method. One common problem is fuel starvation, where the heater only operates for a short time before cutting out due to a lack of fuel. This issue can be addressed by installing a non-return valve or a one-way valve near the T-piece. Another potential issue is airlocks, which can occur if the T-piece is installed incorrectly or in the wrong location.
To avoid these problems, some people choose to install a separate feed directly from the top of the tank or use a tank top dip tube. These methods ensure that the engine fuel supply remains unaffected and can provide a more reliable fuel source for the heater.
Additionally, it is recommended to consider the location of the pump and exhaust when installing the Eberspacher heater. The heater should be mounted at a lower height than the engine feed to prevent air from entering the engine supply. It is also important to ensure that the wiring harness for the pump is properly installed and that the exhaust is wrapped if it is located close to the tank.
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Frequently asked questions
The Eberspacher D2 fuel tank can be installed in various places, including under the van, on a bracket behind the sld step, under a cupboard behind the driver's seat, or under the passenger seat.
If you install the tank under the van, you will need to cut a hole in the floor for the cable to the fuel pump and ensure that there are no obstructions to the fuel lines, inlet, or exhaust mounting.
The Eberspacher pump should be located close to the fuel tank and at an angle to avoid any issues with fuel flow.
To tap into the fuel line, you will need to remove the passenger seat and door step cover, lift the floor lining, and access the fuel sender unit. You can then drill through the top and fit a standpipe.
Some common issues include fuel starvation, airlocks, and ensuring proper fuel flow to the heater and engine. It is recommended to consult a professional or seek advice from forums specific to VW T4 installations.
