Converting LP hotbox to Diesel

Wondering if anyone has converted your hotbox? Seems to me that a coil is a coil and it pretty much comes down to changing the bottom plate from open to sealed, and maybe changing the top baffle........ If you guys could shine a little light on the situation for me I'd be very grateful. Thanks!

1.) I need more heat
2.) I could use the space my propane tank is wasting on my trailer

I think the LP coils are wound differently but I don't know if it's a deal breaker for converting to diesel.

LP = no BTUs. Now I'm probably going to hear from Vince. LOL

Hello Hal, Pretty sure the coil would be ok. Converting to diesel would be possible, but take some engineering. Converting to diesel, you would need a pump and igniter, along with a blower to induce air for the combustion and exhaust flow. If you could get the parts for a low price, it could be worth the conversion. Maybe search around for a used diesel box that has a cracked coil and get it cheap, use those parts for the conversion. Hope I'm going down the right path for your question. I have a diesel hot box, so if you need any specs, drop me a line.

Rapid HotClean said:

LP = no BTUs. Now I'm probably going to hear from Vince. LOL

Click to expand...

lol I an propane for years and still would be running it if Silver Eagle hadn't gone bankrupt. I still could get 175 degrees out of my old unit. It's about what I run the new diesel burner unit at also. Keep in mind though I was buying propane for $2 a gallon compared to over $4 a gallon now for diesel.

Thanks Jimmy I may need to call you.

Vince, were there any differences in the combustion area of the coils on the LP vs. Diesel units? Were the heat retention plates different?
It would be nice to slap a burner assembly on a plate of steel, bolt it up, and be on my way.

bighals said:

Thanks Jimmy I may need to call you.

Vince, were there any differences in the combustion area of the coils on the LP vs. Diesel units? Were the heat retention plates different?
It would be nice to slap a burner assembly on a plate of steel, bolt it up, and be on my way.

Click to expand...

I really don't know the answers to your questions and I don't want to speculate. Hopefully Russ, Jerry or Bil can chime in and give the answers.