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Ice Fishing Tips -Check your local regulations! => Equipment => Topic started by: LoneWolf on Mar 12, 2012, 09:38 AM

Title: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: LoneWolf on Mar 12, 2012, 09:38 AM


This season I wanted to try the Mr Heater heater/cooker and I wanted the model MH15CS. That is the newest model with the push button igniter as I didn't want to mess around with matches or a lighter out on the ice. I tried everywhere but I could only find it on e-bay and the seller wanted $80 plus $13 shipping. By the way the model MH15 in either C or CS isn't even listed on Mr Heater's web site.
I was able to find  the MH15C which doesn't have the igniter for $39.95 delivered. What I did find was there is a pre made spot for the electrode alongside the propane tip.
I called Mr Heater to order the electrode as it was an odd shape .. square. After being told I couldn't do it and it won't work I ordered the electrode .. $13.00 delivered.
I proceeded to make a simple clamp style bracket for the push button piezo .. which I had. I purchased high heat spray paint and painted the bracket/holder.
When the electrode arrived the wire length was very long .. probably 8 or 9 inches. I cut the wire to length and carefully exposed the wire which is encased in a plastic sleeve. I soldered on a new end and shrink tubed everything. I installed the electrode and piezo bracket and found the screw hole that secures the small strap, which holds electrode and fuel tip, was stripped. I installed a smaller diameter screw and nut to secure everything. Final results ... it starts every time.
I had stuff laying around so total cost was the electrode and paint ... under $20 .

I hope this helps some other members.  ;)




Shows push button piezo in bracket.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v89/icepounder/MrHeaterMH15Cconversion001.jpg)

The electrode and wire lead.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v89/icepounder/MrHeaterMH15Cconversion002.jpg)

The electrode installed next to the fuel tip.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v89/icepounder/MrHeaterMH15Cconversion003.jpg)

A better picture of bracket.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v89/icepounder/MrHeaterMH15Cconversion004.jpg)

Bracket at another angle.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v89/icepounder/MrHeaterMH15Cconversion005.jpg)

Shortened electrode lead.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v89/icepounder/MrHeaterMH15Cconversion006.jpg)






Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Bout-Time on Mar 15, 2012, 06:01 PM
Cool mod, good job LW!
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Skipper on Mar 15, 2012, 06:25 PM
I think I am gonna give this idea a try... I just removed about an inch of my beard lighting a tank top model heater I bought last week with a bic lighter. :o

I had to give it a quick trim to be presentable, many may say it's an improvement! ;D
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Bout-Time on Mar 15, 2012, 06:33 PM
LOL
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: LoneWolf on Mar 15, 2012, 06:39 PM
I think I am gonna give this idea a try... I just removed about an inch of my beard lighting a tank top model heater I bought last week with a bic lighter. :o

Ouch !

Quote
Cool mod, good job LW!

Thanks B-T .


If anyone needs any further pictures or have questions let me know.

Doug >))))>
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: kb on Jul 19, 2012, 04:23 AM
Very nice.  Having to fumble with a lighter or matches has always bothered me when trying to light these things
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: surflizard on Jul 19, 2012, 06:33 AM
Great job on the lighter mod LW, neat and clean ! Having to mess around with a lighter or a match to light mine resulting in toasted digits most of the time ! I see home depot has the igniter kits for grills for $10 bucks, Hmm maybe its time to unretire mine ?
(http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l113/lael19533/Antknees%20Ice%20Fishing%20Mayhem/metal%20roofing/grillingniters.jpg)
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: kb on Jul 19, 2012, 11:25 AM
I was thinking of the same thing.  I used to have an igniter laying around. Then I realized I made a potato gun a few years ago, and used it for that. It's off to home depot for a new one.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: rugby ice on Jul 19, 2012, 11:44 AM
Great Mod there Lone Wolf.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: LoneWolf on Jul 25, 2012, 11:54 AM


Thanks guys. I just ordered it direct as it made for a very easy install being a square shape. Also the length would be somewhat critical.


Doug
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: AERO63 on Nov 01, 2012, 12:32 PM
Good stuff!
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: LoneWolf on Feb 06, 2013, 12:12 PM
I mainly use the Mr Heater heater/cooker when I want to actually cook with a frying pan or pot.

When I don't plan on cooking I usually just take my old reliable .. Focus 5.
Many years ago I modded up a "holder" I can place a sandwich or precooked hot dog/bun (wrapped in aluminum foil) on to heat up while I'm jigging.
What's nice about it is it just slides on .. no tools. It might give you guys some ideas .. here's some pics :





With holder attached.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v89/icepounder/Focus5001.jpg)

Holder removed.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v89/icepounder/Focus5002.jpg)


Holder stored on side.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v89/icepounder/Focus5003.jpg)






Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Snowwalker on Jan 06, 2014, 06:20 PM
Nice. Gives me ideas.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Oct 06, 2014, 11:14 PM
Anyone done any?

I found it to be the best heater for my use, but sucks having water on the ice.

I was thinking about making a type of rug out of something like tin foil. Tin foil would reflect the heat, and if i just did something on the bottom it would keep the ice from melting and causing puddles.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: FrostBack on Oct 06, 2014, 11:17 PM
Lots of reading for you to do here!

http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=224866.0 (http://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=224866.0)
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Oct 06, 2014, 11:46 PM
Neat add on, but not what i was looking for.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: BritinCanada on Oct 07, 2014, 12:13 AM
Do not try to reinvent the Wheel   

Take a milk crate turn it side ways open end facing you

stand heater on top of milk crate  and place flasher inside on the bottom of the Crate 


Now both units are out of the ice   ;) ;) ;) ;) ;)
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: bart on Oct 07, 2014, 04:43 AM
This is what I have done, works well...
(http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg22/bart607/Ice%20fishing/P1010008.jpg) (http://s244.photobucket.com/user/bart607/media/Ice%20fishing/P1010008.jpg.html)
(http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg22/bart607/Ice%20fishing/P1090018_zps2de166fa.jpg) (http://s244.photobucket.com/user/bart607/media/Ice%20fishing/P1090018_zps2de166fa.jpg.html)
(http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg22/bart607/Ice%20fishing/P1010037_zps17876251.jpg) (http://s244.photobucket.com/user/bart607/media/Ice%20fishing/P1010037_zps17876251.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: TeamBlueGear on Oct 07, 2014, 05:43 AM
I was looking for the same thing a few weeks ago and there is a bunch of info. I like the Aluminum paint screen idea and doing that. I put my heater and Showdown on 2 pieces of that rubber interlocking pad you can buy in any kids toy dept. I even have it under my feet, Ive noticed it helps keep the chill off my feet and I stay dry.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Rebelss on Oct 07, 2014, 07:21 AM
Do not try to reinvent the Wheel   

Take a milk crate turn it side ways open end facing you

stand heater on top of milk crate  and place flasher inside on the bottom of the Crate 


Now both units are out of the ice   ;) ;) ;) ;) ;)

Exactly. What I do.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Damn Yankee on Oct 07, 2014, 07:26 AM

I was thinking about making a type of rug out of something like tin foil. Tin foil would reflect the heat, and if i just did something on the bottom it would keep the ice from melting and causing puddles.
[/quote]

Survival blanket             
http://www.amazon.com/MPI-Weather-Emergency-Survival-Blanket/dp/B000CSJWWW/ref=sr_1_30?ie=UTF8&qid=1412684733&sr=8-30&keywords=survival+blanket
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Rebelss on Oct 07, 2014, 07:32 AM
Sit it on a square of Reflectix.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: SeisMec on Oct 07, 2014, 07:48 AM
I do the interlocking rudder mats, but like the idea of the milk crate.  It would be a good way to conserve space in the flip over and help keep my rod tip from getting to close to the heater.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: SeisMec on Oct 07, 2014, 07:56 AM
Thanks for the tips!
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: jethro on Oct 07, 2014, 08:36 AM
I use a milk crate in my hub shanty. It works awesome. In my mind, nothing is going to do the job other than raising it off the ice. Even a 2" thick piece of plate steel will heat up and melt the ice under it at some point.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: hardwater diehard on Oct 07, 2014, 08:59 AM
IF you are using a flip over



If using in a hub shelter go with a milk crate or a plastic file case/crate...3 gallon bucket works too
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: muskyon46 on Oct 07, 2014, 09:00 AM
X2 on the milk crate, works like a charm
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: IceHutt on Oct 07, 2014, 09:07 AM
I like Bart's foil pan of musical fruit salad that is topped with tube steak. ;D  A real man's meal ! ;)  That Grid looks like the ticket.   Happy trails !  :)  IceHutt
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: matzilla on Oct 07, 2014, 12:33 PM
you can use a disposable type aluminum roaster pan under the heater...they're cheap, light and no big deal if it gets banged up. Or a piece of reflectix
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: VTWoodchuck on Nov 05, 2014, 09:11 PM
I like Bart's foil pan of musical fruit salad that is topped with tube steak. ;D  A real man's meal ! ;)  That Grid looks like the ticket.   Happy trails !  :)  IceHutt

The food looks great and I really like Bart's mod using another grill front to make the horizontal holder.  It looks like it came with the heater, a really clean mod.  I just ordered a replacement grill from Mr. Heater.  I think it was around $6.50 plus sipping.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: 3300 on Dec 05, 2014, 09:56 AM
thanks bart for the tip!
looks like its wound around the slits and is semi-permanent?

would be nice for an easy on/off solution to save space and safety issues.

The food looks great and I really like Bart's mod using another grill front to make the horizontal holder.  It looks like it came with the heater, a really clean mod.  I just ordered a replacement grill from Mr. Heater.  I think it was around $6.50 plus sipping.

these folks have a heavy duty wire guard for 1$ more than standard wire, they sell both tho and slighty cheaper than mr heater on shipping. same cost for regular wire guard, but mr heater doesn't show one for sale.
    
this site is back ordered, but he had helped me find it on mr heaters site
http://www.tesstools.net/Mr_Heater_MH9BX_Parts_with_Parts_List_s/2237.htm

MR. HEATER 32061 GUARD WIRE,MH9BX,HVY,2009  IN STOCK
http://www.mrheater.com/sporting/wire-guard-heavy-duty-mh9bx.html


Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Rugburn on Jan 13, 2015, 09:00 AM
  I have a question about the buddy heaters. On their web site they show some models that can't be sold in Mass. and Canada, and some that can. Through the description I see no difference. Also, how long will the little tanks last on a regular buddy on the low setting? Thanks.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Elrik on Jan 13, 2015, 12:30 PM
  I have a question about the buddy heaters. On their web site they show some models that can't be sold in Mass. and Canada, and some that can. Through the description I see no difference. Also, how long will the little tanks last on a regular buddy on the low setting? Thanks.

It may be as little as a warning sticker or description in the manual that they don't include in the other models. For example, I know in Canada all propane heaters have to have the documentation state that the devices are not to be used indoors. I know that the buddy heater advertises as a great device to warm up the garage/basement/during power outage, so a documentation change regarding that could be the reason for the different models.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Badgersbunk on Jan 14, 2015, 02:15 PM
(http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k544/badgersbunk/9E0C39C5-AFDC-49EE-B7EE-E957B1AB386E_zps9qbrawhg.jpg)this is a small paint roller screen. Cost was under $2.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: littlewally on Jan 15, 2015, 04:18 PM
Does Mr Heater make this top wire bracket accessory for warming coffee/food tray or is this a home made bracket. Exactly what I am looking for . If anyone knows and could respond I would greatly appreciate it. New to site and appreciate your response!
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: pete/ny on Jan 15, 2015, 04:25 PM
Making your own modifications. They do not sell anything like this that I have seen.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: kb on Jan 15, 2015, 05:17 PM
Littlewally,
Its a paint roller screen.  Only a couple bucks at your local hardware store.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: flintster on Jan 21, 2015, 06:32 PM
Completed the igniter install today! Mine was a MH12c. It required a bit of drilling for the piezoelectric probe but was very simple. The test ignition lit on the first try. Thanks for the ideas!!!
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Crashagn on Jan 27, 2015, 10:02 AM
Lonewolf, I just purchased the same heater 2 weeks ago. great Idea and will do the same. I am also going to try to see if I can get the low/med/high knob off and take the "preset clicker" out as I need something less then that "low" setting. I used the heater in a 2 man and even cooked on top of it and its still way hot.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: feklar on Dec 30, 2015, 10:17 PM
http://www.buddyburners.com/

Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: willisdotcom on Jan 01, 2016, 04:22 AM
http://www.buddyburners.com/

i just saw these a few days ago, think i may have to get one for my big buddy.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Whopper Stopper on Jan 01, 2016, 08:55 AM
Very simple to make one just as good for under $5.


               WS
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: COLD-AS-ICE on Jan 01, 2016, 08:20 PM
A little high priced for what guys are making for 2$ in parts from the hardware store.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: MegaRam on Jan 04, 2016, 07:38 PM
This is what i did. Works awesome.

(http://i1359.photobucket.com/albums/q781/Deryl-v/IMG_2022_zpscdf587a9.jpg) (http://s1359.photobucket.com/user/Deryl-v/media/IMG_2022_zpscdf587a9.jpg.html)

Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: willisdotcom on Jan 04, 2016, 11:45 PM
This is what i did. Works awesome.

(http://i1359.photobucket.com/albums/q781/Deryl-v/IMG_2022_zpscdf587a9.jpg) (http://s1359.photobucket.com/user/Deryl-v/media/IMG_2022_zpscdf587a9.jpg.html)

what did you use for this?  i got a little buddy for this season and that would be nice to have!
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: matzilla on Jan 05, 2016, 04:10 PM
2nd that...I've been meaning to make something for my little buddy for a while and haven't gotten around to it.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: matzilla on Jan 10, 2016, 11:21 PM
I think this might be it - wire closet shelf
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: jign4eyez on Jan 26, 2016, 09:26 AM
I think I am gonna give this idea a try... I just removed about an inch of my beard lighting a tank top model heater I bought last week with a bic lighter. :o

I had to give it a quick trim to be presentable, many may say it's an improvement! ;D


Lol! Been there! great mod, will give it a try
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Special on Jan 15, 2017, 10:11 PM
My new mode work perfect. Love it I'll try and post pics later. I decided to I'm done with the little tanks. Eat them up way to much. So I started looking into a refillable tank. 20lbs was just to big. Pain. well after fidgeting around I found out the 2.5 gallon tank fits perfect in a 6 gal bucket. Nice. Love it and on top of that I could insulate the bucket to help the propane stay a little warmer. Then I ran a 12 foot hose off the tank. Drilled a hole so it can go through the bucket and I've build a 3 bucket holder on the  back on the wheeler. Perfection. I can run the hose from my wheeler to my house and no more little bottles. One tanks so far has lasted 4 days on High. buddy heater. So best mode done yet.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Pikespearingmtpburg on Nov 09, 2017, 12:51 PM
Thanks for the info!
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: paulwhittom on Nov 22, 2017, 06:00 AM
Here is my cooking mod.  Used a bbq rotisserie basket and a piece of coat hanger to attach it to the grate on the heater.  Haven't tried it yet so hope it works ok.

(https://s19.postimg.cc/7tnwkjepr/IMG_1963.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/7tnwkjepr/)
(https://s19.postimg.cc/ek4dtz9lb/IMG_1964.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/ek4dtz9lb/)
(https://s19.postimg.cc/tsub7razj/IMG_1965.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/tsub7razj/)
(https://s19.postimg.cc/7gwiedz0v/IMG_1966.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/7gwiedz0v/)

Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Clank on Dec 12, 2017, 06:20 PM
Do they make a rack for cooking on me heater
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: VenomInjected on Nov 06, 2018, 12:25 PM
Best one I found so far.... What I will be donig for hot dogs and coffee.

Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: maddogg on Nov 06, 2018, 06:41 PM
This is what i did. Works awesome.

(http://i1359.photobucket.com/albums/q781/Deryl-v/IMG_2022_zpscdf587a9.jpg) (http://s1359.photobucket.com/user/Deryl-v/media/IMG_2022_zpscdf587a9.jpg.html)

Mine tips over way to easy the way it is.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Iceassin on Nov 07, 2018, 02:50 AM
Mine tips over way to easy the way it is.

Maybe you could somehow add some weight to the base...a little sand or stones in a tube sock or panty hose? Cut to length to wrap around base? Self-adhesive Velcro strips on base to hold in place? Just tossing it out there.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Gunflint on Nov 07, 2018, 06:29 AM
I bought one of these and it should work.

The "fins" underneath fold in for portability. They are not super sturdy, but should be sufficient for this application.


https://www.amazon.com/Stansport-194-B-Propane-Cylinder-Base/dp/B001DC7FPM (https://www.amazon.com/Stansport-194-B-Propane-Cylinder-Base/dp/B001DC7FPM)
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: maddogg on Nov 07, 2018, 10:36 AM
I bought one of these and it should work.

The "fins" underneath fold in for portability. They are not super sturdy, but should be sufficient for this application.


https://www.amazon.com/Stansport-194-B-Propane-Cylinder-Base/dp/B001DC7FPM (https://www.amazon.com/Stansport-194-B-Propane-Cylinder-Base/dp/B001DC7FPM)

Thanks Guntlint I think that would do the trick. But I upgraded to a Buddy Portable heater.
Title: Re: Mr Heater cooker modifications?
Post by: Gator800r on Nov 08, 2018, 04:34 PM
Adding my cooker to the list. I got all the supplies minus the cooking grate at Menards for under $10
Simple,compact and cheap. Iceshanty member Gunflint pointed out that the handle may melt where it makes contact with the grate. So before i use it i plan on getting some high temp rubber hose and slicing it open and slipping it on the grate where it makes contact with the handle to ensure it doesn’t melt my handle.
(https://i.postimg.cc/c6kBcTCQ/FF813-E7-D-D099-4-F21-970-B-73758265-C04-D.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/c6kBcTCQ)

(https://i.postimg.cc/30YVC1wM/AF6845-AE-C937-471-D-9-EF8-4-A57819655-C2.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/30YVC1wM)

(https://i.postimg.cc/ThKCFBZk/61-F0-A2-D0-8-A28-4844-9-FA3-40-AAABC62-CAF.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/ThKCFBZk)

(https://i.postimg.cc/cg2Md4VF/F17-C5-DCB-D87-B-4651-86-DF-F3-F0-FA3-B9870.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/cg2Md4VF)

(https://i.postimg.cc/cgrBq85K/F4548-A68-B35-D-40-E5-80-E4-0-A8-E1-D5982-A6.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/cgrBq85K)