Block Heater?
Record Breaker
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 1,430
Likes: 2
From: WV
I have only got to use it for an hour or so since I put it on its been to warm to plug in. But they are supposedly better than the freeze plug heaters
Veteran
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 251
Likes: 0
From: Beaverton, OR
My FSM states to install assembly with "element loop pointing down."
Administrator
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 87,550
Likes: 4,230
From: Clayton MI
Would be a good idea, especially if you are putting in one that goes in the freeze plug hole..... If you are putting one of the fellers that just goes in the heater hose, and pumps the coolant around on its own, you can just crimp the hose with vice grips, or some such, do what ya gotta do, and then take them off.
Administrator
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 87,550
Likes: 4,230
From: Clayton MI
Block heater used convection. (it heats the water in its immediate area, and thermodynamics take over......)
The one you plumb into a heater line on the other hand, ESPECIALLY those with their own little pump, will circulate the coolant thru the engine, thus, giving you a nicely warmed engine immediately. block heater isn't quite as effective.
Keep in mind, neither of them heats the coolant in the radiator. So, when the thermostat opens, its gonna get chilly again for a bit. Not as long as without the heater though.
The one you plumb into a heater line on the other hand, ESPECIALLY those with their own little pump, will circulate the coolant thru the engine, thus, giving you a nicely warmed engine immediately. block heater isn't quite as effective.
Keep in mind, neither of them heats the coolant in the radiator. So, when the thermostat opens, its gonna get chilly again for a bit. Not as long as without the heater though.
Grand Champion
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 5,011
Likes: 6
From: Meeker, CO
A tank type block heater is the best way to go. I've never seen one with a pump on it, but the ones I've had that circulate the coolant via convection have been perfectly suitable.
The hot ticket is to also install a trickle charger to keep the battery happy during those long cold nights. Most auto parts stores have small black box units that can be easily mounted under the hood. If you can get it to mount to the bottom of the battery tray, the little bit of heat generated will help, too. Not much, but when it's wicked cold every little bit helps.
The hot ticket is to also install a trickle charger to keep the battery happy during those long cold nights. Most auto parts stores have small black box units that can be easily mounted under the hood. If you can get it to mount to the bottom of the battery tray, the little bit of heat generated will help, too. Not much, but when it's wicked cold every little bit helps.