USAF Heater, Utility (Hand Crank)

[77U]

Some time ago, when a friend was cleaning out his hangar, I acquired a USAF Hand Crank Utility Heater manufactured by Dayton Aircraft Products, Inc.

It's a hand held gas or kerosene fueled device with a hand crank that turns a squirrel cage blower to force air through the burner tube. It's quite a unique item and I'm hoping someone here on the forum is familiar with this type of heater. Now that I'm cleaning up my own hangar I thought it might be time to pass it on to someone who might appreciate it or have a better use for it than I so I've listed it for sale on eBay.

I've had a few inquiries from potential bidders who've asked how old the heater is, as well as where and what it was used for. I've always assumed it would have been used for engine pre-heating or pre-takeoff deicing, etc.

I'd appreciate hearing from any of you who may know more about these hand held heaters and what they were generally used for and in what time frame. To see a picture of the item, feel free to search eBay for item #270012766214. Any info will be much appreciated.
77U

[77U]

With 70+ views to date, I'm a bit surprised there's been zero replies to my post. I was hoping some on this forum would have some experience or be familiar with these heaters and be willing to share some info on these old heaters.

I haven't yet figured out how to include a photo in forum posts so I've copied the following URL link to make it easier to view some pictures.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/VINTAGE- ... enameZWDVW

Any info will be much appreciated!

[Richard W.]

I'm afraid that I can't tell you anything about it, except that I think it's a
really cool item.

A Google search turned up another for sale, like yours except made by ""Ypsilanti Mach. and Tool Co.".

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7401770494&category=12