Set Up for Success: How to Install and Maintain Your Trojan 66B Stock Tank Heater

You made a smart decision by purchasing your Trojan 66B Stock Tank Heater early—but now it’s time to set it up right to ensure your livestock have access to reliable, ice-free water all winter long. The 66B is a propane-powered, submersible heater designed for tanks 100 gallons or larger. With up to 12,400 BTUs per hour, this heater delivers serious cold-weather performance—but only when installed and maintained correctly.

Here’s your updated guide to getting the most out of your Trojan 66B this winter.

Before You Begin: Unbox & Inspect

• Remove all packaging.
• Ensure all parts are included: heater, Trojan Hook-Up Kit (regulator + hose), mounting hardware, and user manual.
• Check for damage or missing parts before installation.

Tools you may need:

• 7/8”, 5/8” wrenches (for propane fittings)
• 9/16”, 3/4”, and 10mm wrenches/sockets for bracket hardware

Step-by-Step Installation

1. Choose a Safe Location

• Place the tank at least 3 feet from buildings or fences to prevent downdrafts.
• Avoid high-wind areas if possible.

2. Mount the Heater Properly

• Follow bracket installation instructions provided.
• The casing should tilt slightly forward, with the boot lower than the burner base, to allow condensation drainage.

3. Connect the Propane Tank Using ONLY the Trojan Hook-Up Kit

• The included two-stage regulator ensures safe low-pressure operation.
• DO NOT substitute with high-pressure components—this voids the warranty and is dangerous.

4. Lighting the Pilot

• Raise the burner assembly out of the casing.
• Turn the control knob to “Pilot”, hold it down, and light the pilot.
• Once lit, hold the button for 60 seconds to establish flame.
• Lower the burner into the casing before switching the knob to “On.”

5. Install the Temperature Sensing Bulb

• Place the bulb in the bulb guide and submerge it in vegetable oil (never antifreeze or water).
• This prevents freezing and potential bulb damage.

6. Set the Temperature Dial

• Start at setting 4 (approx. 48°F) and adjust based on conditions.
• Runs best between settings 4 and 6.

Weekly Maintenance Tips

Check the Pilot Flame

• Flame should be steady and blue.
• If it’s yellow, noisy, or lazy, clean the orifice or call Trojan Specialty Products for further troubleshooting.

Inspect for Debris

• Keep chimney, burner, and casing free of debris and condensation.

Monitor Oil Level in Bulb Guide

• Ensure the sensing bulb is fully submerged in food-safe oil.

Check Propane Supply

• Keep propane levels steady—never let the tank run empty during use.

❄️ What to Do at Season’s End

• Turn Off Gas and remove the heater from the tank.
• Store burner assembly in a dry container.
  • Do NOT wrap the gas control (Unitrol) in plastic.
• Clean all parts and store indoors if possible.
• If heater must remain in the tank, keep pilot lit to prevent moisture damage and premature rust.

Safety Reminders (from the Manufacturer)

• NEVER use pipe compound or sealant on fittings; this may block gas flow and interfere with proper operation.
• Use ONLY the included Trojan Hook-Up Kit to connect the burner assembly. Using other regulators or hoses can cause dangerous overpressure and void the warranty.
• Always check for gas leaks using soapy water, never an open flame.
• If the temperature sensing bulb is damaged or frozen, you must replace the entire Robertshaw Unitrol. The bulb cannot be repaired or replaced separately.
• DO NOT attempt to repair the gas control unit yourself. Tampering is dangerous and voids all warranties.
• Always follow propane safety guidelines established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), including proper tank placement, regulator maintenance, and storage requirements. For complete details, refer to NFPA 58 – LP-Gas Code. https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=58

Final Thoughts

The Trojan 66B is engineered for resilience and dependable heating, but only when installed and maintained according to manufacturer guidelines. From proper propane hookup to temperature bulb care, a little attention now will save major headaches when the weather turns brutal.

Need set-up assistance or parts? Call Trojan Specialty Products at 800-279-1770 or visit www.trojanlivestock.com for support, registration, and warranty information.