Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) block heater

[madmanmanick]

I have a 01 CTD that I use to go to and from work. I travel 4 miles each way. I have noticed that the engine doesn't get u to temp during the trip. Now one thing I remember from a while ago is that a diesel engine runs better once it has warmed up, and that it also gives a chance for the piston rings to expand more and get a better seal. I was thinking about plugging the truck in at night and let the block heater keep the engine warm. The reason I am worried about using the block heater is that I live in San Diego and want to know if the warmer temps will damage the engine if I use the block heater. Now if it was during the winter in MN, WI, IL, etc. I wouldn't worry about it.

 

[JLandry]

Darren,



Using the block heater will in no way cause any damage to your engine. The only negatives to using it could be the added cost of the electricity (not much) and the time needed to plug and unplug it.



I use mine anytime I expect nightime temps to drop below about 50 degrees F. It makes for a much faster warmup in the morning.



My wife has a 2012 Subaru Forester which warms up much faster than my Dodge truck, and we plug it in anytime nightime temps drop below about 40 degrees F.



Life's too short to be cold!



John L.

 

[Ram4Sam]

I use mine alot during the terrible winters here in So Cal:-laf I leave for work at Oh dark thirty and don't have a long commute, so by the time I get there, my heater is still cold, with these cold blooded trucks. Leaving it plugged in all night seems like overkill so I use a timer that comes on around 3 am. Takes the chill off the ride and gets away from those stone cold starts.



Sam