Question regarding early vrs late '51 Kaisers

[Fid]

I have a question regarding the metal tube used in the heater hose line on the later KFs. Most pictures of '51 - '55 KF engines I see have this metal tube connected to the water pump, running the length of the engine and then a short hose from the end to the heater.  If you double-click on and enlarge the picture I posted you can see the tube (the picture is not my engine). My '51 Special does not have it. I've also see pictures of other '51 Kaisers that do not have it but most I see do.  I've checked the parts book, shop manual and KFOC Handbook but can find no mention or picture of it (my '51 Parts book is not illustrated but still nothing in it sounds like this).  Anyone have any information on this part or when it was introduced?  I know my '51 Special is an early one with no stainless rub molding at all and no bright work around the windshields.

Addendum - thanks to Jim B's parts manuals online, I found it! It's number 1 on the other attached screenshot from the 1951 illustrated parts book. It is part of the heater (AC) package and listed as 208228,Tube-temperature control valve to engine.
So, does anyone know if there were "early" and "late" versions of the heater package?

[joefrazer]

I once owned an early 51 and it had the tube. I purchased the car from the original owner at 40k miles. I realize it could have been added but judging by the cars originality, I doubt it. That's one car I wish I'd have kept!

[BigDave LM6174]

Thats interesting, I am not sure I have seen this before.

[Fid]

Your '51 Kaiser doesn't have it Dave?  Of course, if it was a California car, it may not have had a heater.  I did find the pictures my dad took the day he got the car. He got it from the original owner but the engine was out. It's nowhere to be seen in any of the photos.  Who knows?  Anyway, I know where I might be able to find one so I'll check it out.
Any additional input is welcome.
Thanks again.

[BigDave LM6174]

I stand corrected Fid, I have been driving and working on the Henry J lately and I pulled the 51 Kaiser out today.  Checking the oil on the Kaiser today, I laughed when I noticed the tube going from the water heater towards the firewall, then hose to the heater.  LOL.  Yes, my car has it and I have a heater.   The Henry J has the Shut off Valve on the top of the engine.

[rialto]

51-55 full size Kaisers all used the same steel heater pipe except 54-55 with superchargers. The pipe on the supercharged model went higher above the block to clear the supercharger bracket. Heaters could be either factory or dealer installed. I think most were dealer installed using the factory supplied kit.

[84RabbitGTI]

My early '51 Kaiser Deluxe, assembled in CA, has the heater kit.

[Fid]

Thanks everyone for your input. As mentioned, I think I know where I can get one so I'll pursue it when the weather improves.

[Fid]

I finally got around to hitting the salvage yard today and I was fortunate enough to find all the parts required to add this missing part to my '51 Special.  Looks good and now if I want to use the heater, it will likely work!  Before and after pictures

[mbflemingkf]

Fid, I must have missed your post.  I have a used one here on the shelf for the 51-55 cars.  It's about 3.25" from the top of the nut to the underside of the tube going across the engine measured vertically.  Attached is a photo of the 54/55 tube.  Since I sold the car, I'm unable to measure it but it's noticeably taller as rialto points out to clear the SC bracket.

PS, yes I know the head bolts are supposed to be maroon like the engine.  I had just replaced the head gasket and hadn't painted them yet when the photo was taken!   

Mike

[Fid]

Just thought I'd tack onto this again.  I drove the Kaiser last night and used the heater and it works great!  I'm hoping not to have to drive it in situations where the heater is needed but it's nice to know it will work if and when it is needed.