Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Failed block heater< found it

[nutter3]

Well I figured out why my block heater stopped working. It started tripping the GFCI a while back, but I tested it and it ohmed out OK and the contniuity test was Ok on the cord. So I plugged it into a normal outlet. That worked for a while... ... until... ... ... . it finally quit altogether.



Just previous to the block heater going out I had to install 2 new grid heater relays as they were both not working. The wait to start light was coming on for the proper time, but it was not energizing the grid element. I don't think they both failed at the same time, could have been years apart. So I hooked up a LED to each element. Now the Wait to start light comes on and both LEDs light up. After engine start the LEDs will alternate coming on and off as the engine warms up. I always thought they both came on at the same times.

 

[WestTN]

That is extensive corrosion on the old heater! What are you doing for cooling system maintence on the cooling system?

 

[Gary - K7GLD]

That is extensive corrosion on the old heater! What are you doing for cooling system maintence on the cooling system?

Good question - I sure hope the inside of my radiator and block don't look like that!

 

[nutter3]

Well I hope the rest of the system doesnt look that bad. I am guessing it has alot to do with the high temperature on the block heater element.

 

[JR2]

Hey Nutter I think its time to change your coolant and maybe flush the system a bit.

 

[Partyat33]

I took mine out afer over 100k miles and it was pretty clean. Nothing like that.