Wigidigit Block Heater Install Question(s)

[JDeMont]

Before someone rags, I did a search and there is some dialog and a couple of photos from Dec 2005. However, I'm still uncertain about exactly how to install the unit I have.



The manufacturer's instruction photos are too dark to see detail and the verbiage is insufficient (IMHO). To quote:



Step 1. "Completely remove plastic passenger side bumper fascia bolt. " By fascia, I guess they mean the black plastic "plug" or cover just to the right of the passenger side fog light. If so, then it means taking the fascia out and discarding it to install the plug using the hole.



The problem I encountered is that (1) It's a screw, not a bolt and (2) Even though it appears to have a Phillips head, it will not screw out of the plastic poke-through-the-bumper-hole "nut. "



Bottom Line it appears to be a destructive removal of the "bolt" and/or the fascia. Is that correct? I just wanted to know before I tear something off my truck. BTW, the photos in the Dec 2005 thread show the unit being installed in a hole above the license plate, not using the hole through the passenger side fascia.



Any sage (or rosemary ot thyme) advice would be appreciated.



Thanks,



Jim D.



2004. 5 White Laramie quad 6 spd dually.

 

[wsurf]

Jim,

I can't answer your install question, but do have one about the quality of the Wigidigit. I was considering getting one so I wouldn't have to pop the hood to plug in. Does the unit appear to be good quality and corrosion resistant? I live in an area where they salt the roads and was wondering if the unit would hold up.



Thanks

 

[loghauler]

Widgit Install Questions

I have used the widgit through two winters and believe it is a quality piece of merchandise. Install was pretty easy although I remember drilling out the plastic screw you are talking about but not removing the facia. You don't reuse the plastic fastener so I just discarded it after drilling/mangling it.

 

[ASchwartz]

I used a pair of pliers to remove the screw/plug. I too had problems unscrewing it. When I put it together this is how I sandwiched it. I placed the bolt through the bracket and then placed the bracket on top of the metal bumper. The bolt continued through the metal bumper and then through the plastic fascia. I then placed the washer and screwed the nut on to finish the install.



Hope this helps.



Avi

 

[RMachida]

I ended up destroying the plastic screw as well during the install. The only problem I've had is that at very cold temperatures, the plastic cover got so stiff that it snapped right off after only a couple of uses. I believe the product was originally designed for marine use where you wouldn't encounter the same low temperatures we have around here.