Staying warm in winter

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Paul Bjarnason

Senior Member
I want to drive in the winter without being uncomfortable. I don't want to cut a hole in the firewall of my '29 Tudor and I don't want to clutter up my passenger compartment with a little heater box. So, what to do?! For years I rode a motorcycle in the winter (Washington DC area) and had a heated vest and hand grips. My last VW had heated seats, which I loved. Has anyone put aftermarket heating pads under the upholstry of their Model A -- or tried a heated motorcycle vest? I am going 12 volt with a 60 amp alternator, so I think my system could handle a vest or heated seats. Thoughts and experience would be appreciated. Thanks.
 
Yes,
Heated seats work well in a 12 volt system. I have a 29 open top speedster. I put March je moisture resistant seat heater. Works great, has a high low switch and middle position is off.

Jim m,
Seal beach. Ca
 
Remember if you make the alternator belt tight enough to put out 60 amps you will wear out the front bearing of the water pump. How many amps does the electric heater draw? I would use an era correct hot water heater and put the holes in the floorboard. Of course in Southern California I don't have a problem (by the way, where in general do you live?).

Charlie Stephens
 
Eat more beans, I agree with the hot water heater. I have a period correct one in the rear floor
Of my Tudor Sedan works great. No fan it just radiates.
I do want to try the heated seats in my Roadster though.
 
Original equipment is the only way to go...
 

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Charlie Stephens said:
Remember if you make the alternator belt tight enough to put out 60 amps you will wear out the front bearing of the water pump. How many amps does the electric heater draw? I would use an era correct hot water heater and put the holes in the floorboard. Of course in Southern California I don't have a problem (by the way, where in general do you live?).

Charlie Stephens
Click to expand...


Seems like 10 amps for two seats on the high setting. But, additional wear on the water pump bearing is a good point, Charlie. I live in the Washington DC area (Northern Virginia). Here's what WATERCARBON brand seats say: Water Carbon each seat includes two pads - One for the Seat Back and One for the Seat Bottom. Two Kits are included to Accommodate two seats. Each Heater Has Three Settings - High, Low and Off. Dual Temperature Control System. Electronic thermostat (built into each pad) regulates the electricity / temperature circulating within the carbon fiber seat heating pad. This system regulates the flow of power and maintains a narrower temperature range whether in a high or low setting. Example: The high setting will have a constant range between 120°F to 125°F. The low setting ranges between 110°F to 115°F. These respective temperatures are maintained at these respective levels. Backrest & Seat Bottom Heating Pads -- 11" x 17.5" Pads are approximately 1/32" thick. Either pad can be installed in back or bottom. Length can be trimmed to any size. Electrical Specs Wattage: 24-36 Watts per Pad, 48-60 Watts per seat Current Draw: 3 Amps on Low Heat Setting and 5 Amps on High Setting per Seat. It is a 12 V system. If you have always wanted to add factory like heated seats to your Vehicle or Boat, then this Heated Seat kit is the ideal kit and the ideal solution whether you own a car, SUV, Truck, Boat or Plane. Carbon Fiber technology is the best seat heating pad material in the marketplace. Installation may require removal and re-installation of seat and seat covers, as well as basic knowledge of the vehicle's wiring or professional installation.


https://www.amazon.com/Premium-Univ...-Settings/dp/B00AKEVNP2/?tag=atomicindus08-20
 
Paul, check out this thread from a few years ago on heaters that DON'T require firewall holes. Floorboard vents are used instead.
 
In the OLD Surplus Stores, I'd buy electrically heated Flight Suits & matching hats for my Roadster. They were 24 Volts & the plugs were cut off, to a nub! For rain, I cut two head holes, in a Surplus, heavy tarp.
Bill Dryandwarm/B]
 
on my 160A four door, I to did not want to cut a hole in the firewall. so I found this heater manifold. it goes through the wood part of the floor and it keeps the inside nice and toasty, I can feel the hot air blowing in my face.
 

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Wire in a 12 volt receptacle in an inconspicuous spot in the cab and plug in electric blanket(s) to sit on as needed. Simple installation, very low cost, and electric blanket(s) can be stored out of car until needed.
 
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