new Block Heater install

[skyskijason]

Well, the old one started popping GFCI outlet over the summer and not heating w/o GFCI in place. I finally got around to installing a new one. The element and new cord were $57 iirc from powerstrokeshop.com. I'll re-use the cord jus 'cause I don't wanna mess w/it right now.

The Ford install instructions are hilarious. It is literally a series of cartoon images - not a single word! I guess thats 'universal language. Anyway, unplug wire from element and unscrew element w/29mm socket. With the new one in other hand, quickly yank out old and install new - minimizing coolant loss. (I only lost maybe a pint!).

Here's the new stuff:


Close up of new element (came w/sealant already on):


1000 watts/120 volts:


Wonder why the old didn't work?


I am suspicious that this demise could be related to VO in coolant. Long story, but a failed in-tank HE allowed some coolant in VO and vice-versa. I drove about 5 miles before discovering it and spent weeks trying to eradicate the VO from cooling system. This happened in winter and it is very likely I used the block heater while some VO was still present in coolant. Some of the black stuff looks just like what would be on an element used to heat VO...

[2000XLIFTED]

nasty stuff- So the cooling system should be contaminate free now?

[Jack_Toepfer]

Good to know it is an easy install... and relatively cheap too.

My first impression was VO as well...

[Clay]

Only a pint loss? Thats cool....was most of that in your armpit?

[lancaster,pa]

How long did it take you to install? Is 1000 watts stock? Are there choices in wattage? Did you have your truck on a lift or work underneath from the floor? - Patrick

[Marv]

How long did it take you to install? Is 1000 watts stock? Are there choices in wattage? Did you have your truck on a lift or work underneath from the floor? - Patrick

Good questions Patrick...I was wondering the same thing myself. I've considered swapping mine out since I sometimes wonder if it's even working...

[skyskijason]

Clay, you are correct.

I did it on the floor in garage. I did lift it a few inches so the bucket for collecting coolant would fit. Um, I don't think it took 5 minutes - seriously. It would take probably another 15 minutes to change the cord, if ya stopped alot for beer breaks!:chuckles:

If you plug it in and its not HOT to the touch in just a few minutes - I'd say somethings wrong. Just touch the housing for it, above the oil filter.

As far as operation, I found little difference between 4 hrs and all nite when it was 20-30*F. I use a timer set for a few hours before I leave in AM.