Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) grid heater

[cop0110]

what are the symptoms of a bad grid heater? and how do you test or check them?

 

[WadePatton]

First thing you're going to notice is longer cranking times before starting. Then you'll notice more white smoke than usual on cold start and shortly thereafter.



Your lights should dim and voltmeter should dip when the heaters cycle.



The body shop left mine disconnected at the battery last year and the dash light came on like normal. Starting was slow and smoke was obvious--but it was a few weeks before I figured it out.



Numerous things can cause slow start/smoke---but if the grid heaters are working they WILL pull current and that will dim the lights and move the voltmeter in the first few minutes of cold weather operation.



HTH.