Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Found my Block Heater and Cord

[Seafood10]

I have seen some discussions about block heaters and after having my 2001. 5 since it was new the plug for the heater has been staring me in the face all this time. Not sure what years that they installed them with the cord but I popped the hood and looked just left of the radiator and ther it was. I didnt see it before due to the fact that they put a cover over the end so that it wont get dirty.

Living in Southern California I never really had a need for it but it has been getting down to 40 at night and tried it out last night and it was a welcome change, heat out of the heater immediately instead of waiting for 10 miles.

 

[rjrkihap]

I too like having instant heat on those cold mornings. You might want to get a Heavy Duty Timer and set it to turn on a couple hours before you leave. That will save you some $$$ on your electric bill. As for when you should plug in, there are so many varying opinions. For me, I plug in with a timer when temps. are expected to drop below 40. I also run a 5w-40 Synthetic Diesel oil so I'm comfortable that my engine is being lubed properly well below 40 degrees (even without plugging in).



Ron

 

[Grizzly]

We've had some 20* F mornings. That's when the block heater and the bun warmer are nice. I don't get instant heat with the block heater. It takes about 4 blocks. By the way, I just keep the block heater plugged in all night and I don't ever see it in my electric bill.

 

[Bob Cochran]

I put a thermostat in series after the timer so I decided at what temp I want the truck to start heating and when it should come on like 2 hours before I need to leave. So if not to cold or timer prevents it wont heat but otherwise does.