The CFMoto ZForce 500 Under Dash Compact Ice Crusher Heater is designed for installation in the CFMoto ZForce 500 vehicle. Installation requires attention to detail, particularly regarding the cooling system, and may be complex. Proper operation relies on ensuring the system is free of airlocks. This article details the installation process, troubleshooting steps for insufficient heat, and warranty information based on available documentation.
Installation Procedure
The installation process involves mounting the heater and defrost bracket, installing support brackets, and connecting the heater to the vehicle’s cooling system via Y fittings. Before beginning, it is crucial to disconnect the vehicle’s negative battery lead to prevent electrical hazards. The documentation emphasizes allowing the vehicle to cool completely before working on the cooling system to avoid burns or scalding from hot coolant.
The heater and defrost mounting bracket are attached using supplied #10x1/2” mounting screws. The heater supports bracket is secured using 5/16x5” bolts and 5/16 nuts. Custom CNC-made aluminum Y fittings are included in the kit for installation into the UTV’s cooling system. When assembling these fittings, the use of Teflon sealing tape or pipe thread sealer on the supplied 5/8” threads is recommended.
A critical step prior to connecting the hoses is to run water through the heater hose and heater assembly using a garden hose. This procedure is essential to remove air from the system and prevent airlocks, which can impede heater performance. The shut-off valve should be fully open during this process.
Troubleshooting Air Locks
If the heater fails to produce hot or warm air after the vehicle reaches operating temperature, an airlock may be present in the heater unit. The documentation outlines a procedure to address this issue. First, allow the vehicle to cool. Then, recheck the coolant level and coolant ratio within the cooling system, adjusting as necessary.
The following steps are recommended to eliminate airlocks:
- Start the vehicle and allow it to idle at a fast idle until it reaches normal operating temperature.
- Feel the outlet/lower hose from the heater; it should become hot.
- Temporarily block off the top/inlet radiator hose at the radiator using an appropriate tool or clamp.
- Start and run the vehicle at operating temperature again.
- Feel the outlet/lower hose from the heater to confirm it is hot.
- Remove the clamp blocking the radiator hose.
- The heater should now be blowing hot/warm air.
This procedure may need to be repeated several times to fully remove air from the system. After each attempt, allow the vehicle to cool and recheck the coolant level and ratio. Final testing should be conducted at a fast idle, as heater output may be limited at idle speeds.
Additional Troubleshooting Steps
If the initial procedure does not resolve the issue, the documentation suggests repeating the water flush procedure described during installation. Specifically, before connecting the hoses to the Y connectors, a garden hose should be used to run water through the heater hoses and heater assembly with the shut-off valve fully open. This reinforces the importance of eliminating air from the system.
Warranty Information
UTV Heaters.com provides a warranty for the UTV Heater System. The warranty covers defects in materials and craftsmanship under normal use and service by the original consumer purchaser. The standard warranty period is three (3) years from the date of purchase for all components, with a reduced warranty period of one (1) year for electrical components, including the motor, switch, wiring, and resistor.
The warranty is void if the system has been damaged due to accident, improper installation, unreasonable use, lack of proper maintenance, unauthorized repairs or modifications, or any causes not arising from defects in materials and craftsmanship.
Conclusion
The CFMoto ZForce 500 Under Dash Compact Ice Crusher Heater offers a heating solution for the specified vehicle model. Successful installation requires careful adherence to the provided instructions, with particular attention to the cooling system and the elimination of airlocks. Troubleshooting steps are available to address issues with insufficient heat, and a warranty is provided to cover defects in materials and workmanship. Proper maintenance and adherence to the warranty terms are essential for long-term performance and coverage.