Hey guys, so sorry to have been MIA on this thread. Somehow, I didn't get notifications on updates and I've missed out on an amazing discussion and am so sorry I wasn't there to share my experiences. So fun for me to see an idea develop into something that seems to have worked so well for many of you.
Just to chime in on a few topics asked and answered.
1) I also did side venting. My installation was high because I wanted to get my handlebars clear of the unit when loading side by side. I wished I had done a lower installation. There is no benefit to the venting high that I can see and it would have maybe been better heat distribution and accessibility for my daughters and wife to warm their hands while we are all getting ready on the arrival and departure. Lower installation would have accommodated that inside and outside the trailer. I will say that one of the benefits of this unit is that you can heat and drive at the same time. If one were to install in the nose, you would need to direct the exhaust to the side wall to accomplish this otherwise the air on the nose would put out the burn chamber.
2) I also used a suburban RV vent sleeve and cover. Worried about temps, I actually pushed the exhaust tubing to the end of the sleeve to exit directly out the side of the trailer, but not until I wrapped the exhaust tube that was supplied with the heater with some ceramic blanket. I can touch the sleeve when the heater is in full operation. No concerns about the trailer wall getting hot. It just doesn't.
3) I did not do anything special for air intake. The already installed side vents on the trailer seem to allow plenty of air needed for intake and since the application is to help dry out the trailer, I've found it helps to open the top vent for moisture exhaust which also meets the intake requirements. The exhaust obviously exits the trailer, so no concerns there.
4) My trailer is large and it does a great job. On the coldest winter mornings I need to let it run for a couple hours before leaving. But that met my expectations. As good a job as one heater does, At this price point I am considering installing a second heater with some PVC duct work for heating gloves and helmets. So thrilled to see another contributor doing something similar in their rig.
5) Having used this for a winter and a half, I have found that the diesel definitely needs winterizer treatment and on really cold days, the pump itself needs a little coaxing to get moving. I use a DeWalt battery powered heat gun to get the pump warm enough to get the pump moving and then it operates just fine. I may look into a stronger pump should one exist?
Overall, my experience has been amazing. I love that little heater. Since putting it in, I installed one in a utility trailer, my brother installed one in his toy hauler garage, and another one in his shop. I haven't had any problems with the Chinese ebay heaters and if anyone feels it would meet their needs, would highly recommend doing a similar installation as shown in this thread.
