Portable Diesel Heater

[HydeParkHunter]

I just learned about these Portable Diesel Heaters and they sound like the perfect heating solution for my truck-camping adventures. I'm seeing bits in a few other threads, but starting this to focus on people's experiences with them.

I haven't done much research, but I do have these parameters:

1. Self-contained, weather-proof container.
2. Capable at higher elevations (up to 8-9,000'-ish?).
3. Bluetooth capable.
4. Heating a canvas Tipi tent, 17' diameter, 10' tall.
5. I'm not opposed to buying the ~$200 ones, but I'm expecting and willing to pay much more for quality/capability/dependability.

Would love to hear from folks who have used them, specifically makes and models. Do they live up to expectations? Must-have features?

Thanks in advance!

 

[hoooogan]

There are a ton of units that are mostly self contained and weatherproof. You'll find them once you start your searching. Reviews are all over the place from every brand and price point. Lots say you get what you pay for, but also plenty of folks successfully using the cheapest unit they can find. For that large of a tent, you'd obviously want a higher output unit.

Years ago, I tried a cheap chinese unit and was plagued with a plastic smell that I couldn't get rid of. Outside of the smell, it worked great. Was easy to start up, got hot and sipped diesel with reasonable battery consumption, but I got tired of troubleshooting my small investment, so I jumped ship and went to a Propex Propane unit for my truck camper. If I didn't have the Propex, I would have tried again with a different brand.

 

[DoubleAron]

I replaced an older one with a Hcalory toolbox 2 and have had great luck with it. I would not leave it in the rain though. Maybe it would be fine to be honest I have not looked into if that would be ok.

 

[Nevwild]

I have an Hcalory in my adventure van and I love it.

You will need to do maintenance on it. Everything you need to know can be found in this series of YouTube videos.