Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Block heater POP!

[TORQUE THIS]

When I plug in the block heater, there is a loud pop from under the hood There is also an arc when plugging it in also.



The heater is working... Should I be concerned???

 

[Midnite]

Originally posted by TORQUE THIS

When I plug in the block heater, there is a loud pop from under the hood There is also an arc when plugging it in also.



The heater is working... Should I be concerned???

YES!! Popping and arcing are bad, and typically are shortly followed by smoking and burning components.



That sounds like a short, although if it were I wouldn't expect the block heater to get any juice. Check your cable closely and see if the insulation has cracked or worn away in any places.



Mike

 

[TORQUE THIS]

I have removed the cord from the block and checked it out. Connections are good, no abrasions or wear on the cord.



I don't know what else to check.

 

[dpetre]

Take a flash light and look for arking around the terminals where the cord plugs to the block heater. While you have the cord off OHM it out to make sure that it is not shorting out. The block heater when working properly will draw an arch at the outlet when you unplug it.

 

[2-ND TIME]

arcing and poping

The loud poping that you here is likely from the plug on the block heater having abad connection likely from the current that it draws when it works. Remove the cap and inspect the connections they are possably burned clean if there is enough of an end left you maybe able to save them and crimp on a new end to the wire.

 

[jwinnie]

my block heater makes some small popping noises when I first plug it in, sounds exactly like the (electric) hot water heater in my house when it kicks on. Air bubbles maybe

 

[TORQUE THIS]

jwinnie,



exactly like the hot water heater, that's the sound!!!

 

[Shovelhead]

It is a hot water heater.

 

[CRSmith]

I had the same thing happen to me when i plugged it in for the first time this season. I had just been out in the rain. Maybe that had something to do with it. I'm not really worried.

 

[Wheaties]

Mark,



Does it work? Does it warm the engine? Do you have a multitester? Check the resistance between the prongs. Maybe check to see if there's any continuity between a lead and the block?



The resistance should be in the shop manual.



Matt

 

[Uncle Mike]

Sorry guys couldn't resist , but if the water is already hot why would it need a heater? I have to admit, I've never heard it referred to as a "cold water heater".