Webasto or Espar coolant heater?

[SkiBum506]

Hi everyone,
I have enjoyed reading on here for awhile now and finally have a question to post. I am working on buying/importing a HZJ75 Troopy and I live in the mountains of Colorado around 9,000ft. Being that we are in the cold for so long (-40 on the coldest of nights) I plan on installing a coolant heater at time of purchase. I believe I have narrowed it down to two but I have no idea what I'm talking about and come to you for input. I have been looking at the Webasto thermo top C and the Espar E3, I am also interested in timer or programmable controller. My plan is to eventually add an a air heater as well and want single controller that can handle both. So I come here for advice, what which one would you go with and why? Or would you recommend a different unit and why? Any input on a controller is welcome as well, looking to add a remote start option eventually as well. I have read a bit about these on here just haven't found what I'm looking for specifically so I thought I would write.

Thank you in advance, I am amazed by the amount on experience and knowledge on here.

 

[Abe Froman]

You may want to pop in on the sprinter-source forum and ask the same question.
Those dudes have been using the Espar (mostly d2 and d5. IIRC) heaters for years and many have lots of experience with them.
This http://www.lubricationspecialist.com/espar/ company has a good reputation, so maybe an email or two would get you started.

Edit: I do realize you are seeking a coolant heater primarily over the more common air heaters....just thought it might be a step,in the right direction.

 

[Pinnacle Campers]

I have a few bits of info to offer here.

In my research, most controllers are either for hydronic or airtronic not often for both, doesn't mean it can't be made to work.
Additionally, I recommend a controller that has on board diagnostics. The first time you have to go to the Thermo King dealer to have the codes read and heater unlocked ($100min) you will wish you did.
You can also get air heat from the hydronic using a radiator and fan type setup. This likely will be more complicated and take more time to get air heat, you also lose the redundancy.